The New Zealand Rental Go Kart Championships

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Get ready for another incredible year of racing. IORK 2026 returns to Pro Karts in Nelson, home of the original IORK events and one of New Zealand’s most exciting outdoor kart tracks.

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The Indoor & Outdoor Rental Go Kart New Zealand Championships continue to grow each year, attracting drivers from across the country to compete in one of the most exciting rental go kart racing events in New Zealand.

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With a proven race format, national drivers returning from across the country, and exciting additions planned for the event, the New Zealand Rental Go Kart Championships continue to build momentum year after year.

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The Track

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The championship will once again take place at Pro Karts Nelson, a fast flowing outdoor circuit known for its elevation changes, technical corners, and multiple overtaking opportunities.

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The track delivers close racing, strategic passing, and intense battles from the green flag to the chequered flag.

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With racing held day and night, rain or shine, drivers must adapt to changing conditions and stay focused across the entire event.

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Race Format

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IORK continues with the timed race format introduced in recent seasons.

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Each driver will compete in six qualifying heats, with each heat running for approximately eight minutes.

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Drivers race for position throughout the heat, and when the timer reaches zero the next time the leader crosses the start finish line the chequered flag will be shown. Positions at that moment determine the finishing order.

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This format rewards:

• Consistent race pace
• Smart overtaking decisions
• Strong defensive driving
• Maintaining focus right to the final lap

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After qualifying heats are completed, the top points scorers progress through to the finals.

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Championship Categories

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Drivers compete in one or more of the following five championship categories.

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Featherweight

Under 69.9kg

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Lightweight

70kg – 84.9kg

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Middleweight

85kg – 99.9kg

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Heavyweight

100kg and over

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Junior Category

18 Years and Under (12–18 years)

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Each category runs its own qualifying heats and championship final.

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In larger categories, semi finals may be run to determine the drivers progressing through to the final.

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Every category crowns its own IORK Champion, with podium trophies awarded for first, second, and third place.

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Multi Category Racing

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One of the unique aspects of the New Zealand Rental Go Kart Championships is the opportunity to compete in multiple weight categories.

Many drivers choose to enter two or even three categories, significantly increasing their track time and giving themselves multiple opportunities to qualify for championship finals.

In previous years several drivers have successfully reached finals in more than one class and even taken podium finishes across multiple categories.

If you want maximum racing and more chances at championship success, entering multiple categories is a great option.

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Junior Category (12–18 Years)

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The Junior Category is designed specifically for younger drivers aged 12 to 18 years.

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If you are 18 years old or younger on 15 October 2026, you are eligible to compete in this category.

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Junior drivers race using the same championship format and equipment as the adult classes, giving young competitors the opportunity to develop racecraft and compete on a national stage.

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Many talented young drivers have already used this category as a stepping stone to success in the senior divisions.

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The Go Karts

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IORK 2026 will once again run on the Sodi RT8 rental go karts, recognised worldwide as one of the most competitive and consistent rental go kart platforms.

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These machines deliver excellent reliability, strong performance, and close racing across the entire field.

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With identical equipment for all drivers, the championship places the focus where it belongs:

Driver skill. Racecraft. Consistency.

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Merchandise and Practice Opportunities

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In the lead up to the event we will be releasing the official IORK 2026 merchandise range, including:

• Hoodies
• Caps
• T shirts
• Event memorabilia

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Practice opportunities and special practice deals will also be announced, giving drivers the chance to prepare and familiarise themselves with the track before the championship begins.

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A Championship That Continues to Grow

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Since launching in 2020, the Indoor & Outdoor Rental Go Kart New Zealand Championships have attracted hundreds of drivers from across New Zealand.

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The event has built a reputation for:

• competitive rental go kart racing
• professionally run events
• national driver participation
• a welcoming and social racing environment

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Each year the New Zealand Rental Go Kart Championships continue to grow, attracting new drivers while welcoming back returning competitors from previous seasons.

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Entries Are Open

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Whether you are a seasoned racer or entering your first major rental go kart event, IORK 2026 is your chance to compete on a national stage.

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Six heats. Championship finals. Drivers from all over New Zealand.

The question is simple.

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Are you ready to race?