The Association has been ticking a few boxes behind the scenes over recent times.
The first quarter of the year has seen the demolition of the old Barn Block toilet block, and the installation of the second-hand toilet block purchased from the Stratford Motorsport Trust- thanks for a generous grant from TET. Development also continues on the newly constructed shearing shed facility that was donated by Y & Y Brunton last year.
The new year has also seen the renewal of the License to Occupy agreements between A&P and both the Speedway and Equestrian groups on site.
Beyond this, the A&P grounds continue to be used to grow maize silage, host community & recreational events, whilst also acting as a NZ Motorhome and Campervan Association Park Over Property (NZMCA POP) site, with great feedback all round.
Please remember to reach out when looking for your next event venue, both indoor and outdoor!
Motorsport Complex & Trust
As shared in our previous update, our ability to hold activities on site remains paused while the Parks resource consent process is completed. Although this has slowed visible progress, our volunteer team continues to work hard behind the scenes.
During the first quarter of 2026 we met with the full Stratford District Council and their compliance team to regain momentum on the consenting pathway. Our original application was closely linked to the wider park consent and proposed zone change. However, with the wider consent facing delays and a district-wide pause on zone change applications until 2029, we have shifted our approach.
We are now progressing a standalone application for a scaled‑back Stage 1 of the Motorsport Park. This seeks approval for a drift track, a large concrete pad, and supporting buildings and services for up to 100 operational days of appropriate motorsport events and driver training. The application is now complete, and formal neighbour notification is underway this week. We expect to lodge the full application by the end of March.
We know this process has been frustrating — not only for us as volunteers, but also for you, our supporters. The delays have impacted activity on site and our ability to promote the park and its potential, including commitments made to those who supported us through barrier and signage purchases last year. We truly appreciate your patience and remain committed to delivering the exposure and opportunities originally promised once consent is secured.
In parallel with the paperwork, subtle practical progress continues on-site. Gravelled parking areas, administration space, power supply and toilet facilities are all nearing completion. We also harvested another successful crop of maize silage, helping to offset some of our operating costs.
When we began this project six years ago, we had hoped to be operational by now. The journey has been more challenging than expected, but with this month’s resource consent lodgement, we are optimistic that 2026 will bring renewed momentum and tangible steps toward opening the doors.
Thank you again for standing with us.
The Team at Stratford Park.
