New Zealand's First East Coast Drift Park Wows Thousands

A purpose-built drift racing track in Gisborne just proved that sometimes the best way to lift a community is with tire smoke and cheering crowds.

The H Blackbee Drift Park hosted its first major event this past weekend, welcoming Round 4 of the D1NZ National Drifting Championship. It marked the first time an official drifting event had ever happened on New Zealand's East Coast, and thousands showed up to watch drivers slide through corners at the Dunstan Road circuit in Matawhero.

The track instantly won over competitors. Professional drivers told organizers this was the best drift track they'd driven on anywhere in New Zealand, praising its American-style layout and unexpected challenges.

Taupō's Connor Halligan claimed first place in the Pro Series division, while Waikato's Blake Myles won the Pro Sport section. Saturday featured individual qualifying runs, and Sunday brought head-to-head battles that aired live on Sky Sport.

Boss Blackbee, the driving force behind creating the park, couldn't hide his excitement about the turnout. "It was awesome, so many good vibes," he told The Gisborne Herald. "Everybody was just enjoying the whole atmosphere."

The Ripple Effect

The event's impact went far beyond entertainment for a community that's faced serious hardships. Gisborne has struggled through tough economic times, highway closures, and severe weather events that have isolated the region.

Mayor Rehette Stoltz didn't just attend as a spectator. She hopped in the passenger seat for a drift ride and came out grinning. "We've been through tough economic times," she told the crowd. "People coming here, staying in our motels, visiting our restaurants, coming to support us. Ten out of 10."

The economic boost couldn't come at a better time. Visitors filled local hotels and restaurants, bringing fresh energy and money into the region.

Blackbee credited Aratu Forests with making the entire project possible. "Without them this would not have happened," he said. "We're just over the moon with the level of their support."

The success has everyone asking the same question: when's the next one? Organizers hope to host another event within the next couple of months, and based on the feedback from both competitors and spectators, tickets will likely go fast.