From the Motorsport Complex:

The most significant step forward for the Stratford Park Motorsport Complex this year was the announcement of a collaboration between the Taranaki Motorsport Charitable Trust and Draft Antics. This partnership resulted in the pouring of a new drift pad and the installation of utilities on site. These developments mark a major milestone in enabling the complex to generate its own income to support future initiatives. The new area is not only suitable for drifting events but also for driver training, car shows, and other activities.

However, progress has not been without challenges. To operate, the complex requires resource consent—something we initially believed would be a relatively straightforward process. It has proven otherwise. Traffic management, railway crossing limitations, and environmental and cultural considerations all needed to be addressed. Following our first application, the most significant issues identified were traffic and railway constraints, along with noise limitations.

We are now working closely with Stratford District Council on a second resource consent application. Until consent is granted, we are unable to hold any events of any kind on the site.

Additional updates within the Motorsport Complex:

• Stratford Speedway has decided to remain at its current location for the foreseeable future. As a result, they will not proceed with involvement in the new Motorsport Park area and are now in discussions with A&P regarding renewal of their tenure.
• Drag Racing Taranaki has withdrawn from the project due to noise concerns, as drag racing is the loudest of the prospective motorsports and community tolerance for noise is low.
• No further land will be purchased until the resource consent situation becomes clearer. Our focus will remain on the existing land.

Whilst the trustees remain committed to the project and want to see it succeed, funding continues to be an issue, compounded by the inability to earn an income. We must ensure the project has a sustainable long-term future in Stratford before progressing forward- If it does not have a future locally, an alternative site may need to be considered.

The Trustees will review the project further in the first quarter of the new year, with the goal of announcing a decision by 31 March 2026.

From A&P & Equestrian

A major highlight for A&P in 2025 was hosting the Royal A&P Show of New Zealand from 28–30 November. The show brought together the country’s top-bred animals and showcased a vibrant mix of agriculture and entertainment for the region. It was a great success, with a standout moment being the shearing competition—99 shearers competed in the newly reconstructed building generously donated by A & Y Brunton.

This year also marked the maturity of our first loan. Following discussions with Council, the loan has been rolled over at an increased interest rate. We extend our sincere thanks to Council for their continued support.

A&P is now exploring opportunities to increase productivity from the land. In addition, the Equestrian group has decided to shift new developments from the south block to the east block, with groundworks set to begin shortly. A&P fully supports this direction and looks forward to seeing improved facilities for the equestrian community.

Looking ahead to 2026, we are excited to see the showgrounds further utilised as a recreation facility and home base for many community groups. One of the toilet blocks has been demolished, and a new facility will be constructed.

From all of us at Stratford Park,

Thank you to our community, businesses, sponsors, and grant funders for your ongoing support. We wish you a joyful Christmas and look forward to working with you again in 2026.