Despite the Taupo leg being shortened to a two-day event due to inclement weather, $7.9 million was spent in the area.
The championship’s maiden visit to Christchurch the following weekend delivered $9.5 million in revenue to the region.
The Christchurch Super440 at Ruapuna marked the first visit by Supercars to the South Island.
Supercars said international visitors spent another $4 million across the country.
It’s estimated there were 3000 international visitors who spent $9.3 million during their stay and generated more than 34,000 international visitor nights.
“The passion shown by fans in both Taupo and Christchurch was extraordinary, and we’re incredibly proud to have delivered a successful first double header across both islands,” said Supercars Executive Chairman Barclay Nettlefold.
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“From the outset, our ambition was to create something bigger than two standalone race weekends.
“We wanted to give fans a reason to travel, stay longer and experience more of New Zealand while delivering meaningful economic outcomes for our partners and host cities.
“The results speak for themselves. More than $21 million in visitor expenditure and 34,000 international visitor nights is a tremendous outcome for New Zealand and demonstrates the strength of Supercars as a major tourism and events platform.”
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Hon Louise Upston hailed Supercars’ impact on the economy.
“The inaugural Supercars double header has been a major success, delivering a significant economic boost for Taupo and Christchurch,” said Minister Upston.
“We welcomed approximately 3000 international visitors, alongside fans who travelled from across New Zealand to experience the racing.
“Major events like these attract visitors, support local businesses, and help grow our tourism economy.”
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger was a driving force behind bringing Supercars to the city.
Mauger is a self-confessed motorsport fan who competed in the historic support class in a Ford Sierra.
“As a long-time follower of Supercars, it’s hard to express just how fantastic it was to welcome the event to Christchurch, both for our city and our local motorsport community,” Mauger said.
“Seeing fans turn out in force, enjoying the racing at Ruapuna while supporting local businesses across the city, was incredibly rewarding.
“We’re thrilled to provide Supercars with a home in Christchurch as part of our world-class events calendar and look forward to building on this success in the years ahead.”
Taupo and Christchurch will return to the 2027 calendar. Dates are expected to be announced in the coming months.
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