FAQ | IORK New Zealand

2025 IORK – Frequently Asked Questions

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What is IORK?

The IORK (Indoor & Outdoor Rental Karting) New Zealand Championships is the country’s premier rental kart racing event. Held at Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland, it brings together drivers from across New Zealand (and even a few from overseas) for a multi-day, adrenaline-fuelled race weekend in equal-performance rental karts.

Check out our Accommodation and Transport page.

When is IORK 2025?

IORK 2025 runs from Thursday 25th September to Sunday 28th September 2025.

Where is the event held?

At Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland, on a custom-built outdoor rental kart racing circuit.

Who can enter?

Anyone aged 12 or older is welcome to enter. Drivers are grouped into categories based on age and weight for fair competition.

Do I need my own kart?

No – all karts and safety gear are supplied. You may bring your own helmet, gloves, and race suit if they meet safety standards.

Racing Format and Rules

What categories are available?

For 2025, there are five categories:

18 Years & Under (if you are 18 or younger on 25 September 2025)
69.9kg & Under
70kg to 84.9kg
85kg to 99.9kg
100kg & Over

You may enter multiple categories if eligible. Drivers are weighed on-site.

How many races will I do?

Each driver competes in six 8-minute qualifying heats. Points are awarded in each heat based on finishing position.

What’s the race format?

All qualifying heats and semi-finals are timed races. Once 8 minutes is up, the chequered flag is shown the next time the leader crosses the start/finish line.

How do semi-finals and finals work?

The top 16 drivers per category advance to the semi-finals (10-minute races), held on Saturday from 6:00 PM.
The top 8 from each semi-final qualify for the finals on Sunday.

Finals format:

100-Lap Finals = 50-minute timed race with mandatory pit stops
60-Lap Finals = 20-minute timed race with mandatory pit stops
Winners are decided based on final race results, not qualifying points.

What happens if it rains?

IORK races in all weather conditions. In wet conditions that significantly slow lap times, qualifying heats may be adjusted to 8-minute timed formats. Finals will still run.

Practice, Qualifying & Briefing

Can I practise before the event?

Yes! Practice sessions are available on:

Wednesday, 24 September 2025 – All-day (timing TBC)
Thursday, 25 September 2025 – From 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM

Practice sessions are not included in your entry fee and can be purchased separately. You may book as many sessions as you like.

When is driver sign-in?

Sign-in is on Thursday, 25 September from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

When is the driver briefing?

The compulsory driver briefing is held at 4:30 PM on Thursday, 25 September.

When does qualifying start?

Qualifying heats begin on Thursday evening from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Each driver will complete one or more of their six heats that night.

Booking & Registration

How do I enter?

Go to www.iork.co.nz to register. Follow us on social media for updates and announcements.

What does it cost to enter?

Entry is $235 per person, per category. This includes:

6 qualifying heats
Kart use and safety gear
Semi-finals and finals (if you qualify)

Practice sessions are an additional cost.

Is merchandise included?

No – but official IORK t-shirts, hoodies, caps and merchandise will be available online before and during the event.

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

There are no refunds available, but:

You can transfer your entry to another person
You can transfer your entry to the following year, if you notify us in writing at least 7 days before the event
If you do not show up and do not notify us, your entry is forfeited with no refund or credit

Track & Equipment

What karts are used?

All drivers race in professionally maintained Ace RiMO rental race karts.

Are the karts equal?

Yes – all karts are thoroughly tested and race-tuned before the event. We operate a rotation system, so every driver uses a different kart in each heat to ensure fairness.

Does the track change each year?

Sometimes – we occasionally adjust the layout each year to keep the racing exciting and unique.

Can I bring my own helmet or gear?

Yes – as long as it meets our safety standards. We also supply helmets, gloves, and race suits for those who need them.

Spectators & Supporters

Can people come and watch?

Yes – the event is free for spectators and open all weekend.

Is there seating available?

Yes – grandstand seating is available, providing great views of the racing.

Is food available on-site?

Yes – we encourage spectators and drivers to support the Lilyworld Café at Mount Smart Stadium. They offer a variety of food and drinks, and we may host a few social events there during the weekend.

Can I stay overnight at the venue?

No – there is no camping or overnight accommodation on-site. There are many hotels and motels nearby, so book early. Check out our Accommodation and Transport page.