- Until now there has been limited options for young riders to race a motorcycle.
- The MiniGP series races will all be held on go-kart tracks apart from the final round which will be at the legendary Manfeild Back Track.
- All riders will be on Delirio GP-10 or GP-12 machines, with bikes suitable for ages 6 years old and up.
As the first light of dawn cuts through the morning mist, the air comes alive with the sounds and smells of pure racing passion. Tools clink, parents chat excitedly, and young riders bounce with anticipation. Engines roar to life one after another, filling the air with the unmistakable scent of petrol and the electric buzz of possibility.
This scene plays out every weekend at kart tracks around the world, where children as young as four climb onto MiniGP bikes and chase their racing dreams. But until now, New Zealand’s young riders have been left waiting in the wings.
That’s about to change.
A passionate group of parents, racers, and industry professionals have come together to form The Road Race Trust—and with it, a brand-new pathway for Kiwi kids to experience the thrill of road racing in a safe, structured, and professionally run environment.
Announcing the Pirelli MiniGP Race Series
The Trust is proud to launch the Pirelli MiniGP Race Series, the first of its kind in New Zealand. Running across five exciting rounds at some of the best karting and racing venues in the central North Island, this series will give riders aged 7 and up the chance to experience real race-day intensity while building skills for the future.
2025–2026 Series Dates:
1st/2nd November 2025
29th/30th November 2025
3rd/4th January 2026
24th/25th January 2026
14th/15th February 2026 – The Grand Finale at Manfield Back Track
The first four rounds will ignite go-kart tracks across the region, while the final showdown at the legendary Manfield Back Track—dubbed our very own “MiniGP Cathedral of Speed”—will set the stage for champions to be crowned.
More Than Racing: A Complete Pathway
This isn’t just about competition—it’s about opportunity. In partnership with MiniGP Academy NZ, each race weekend will begin with a Trackday on the Saturday of each race weekend. These days will have open practice sessions and have a go sessions, perfect for newcomers wanting their first taste of two-wheel racing. Saturday will feature race license assessments and open practice, while Sunday will bring the adrenaline-packed main event: practice, qualifying, and three thrilling races.
Any rider that does not hold a MNZ Race Licence will need to complete the MiniGP Academy NZ Race Licence assessment before lining up on the grid—ensuring safety, skill, and professionalism from the very first lap. There will also be two non-competitive classes for riders who are younger than 7, or who need more time to develop their riding skills prior to entering a race environment.
Getting Started
No bike? No problem. MiniGP Academy NZ has bikes available for hire or purchase, but riders will need to be quick—demand is already running high, and machines are being snapped up fast.
This is a rare opportunity for Kiwi kids to take their place on the grid and join a racing movement that’s changing the future of motorsport in New Zealand.
Ready to Race?
For licence information, bike hire, or to book your place in the series, contact MiniGP Academy NZ today. The future of New Zealand road racing starts here—don’t let your child miss the green light.
For further details head to: www.minigpacademynz.com
