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The TOYOTA Festival is returning to Highlands
Saturday 3rd April 2027
Bring the whole whānau for a full day of excitement with a huge lineup of off-track activities designed for all ages, from entertainment and displays to hands-on experiences that keep the energy high from the moment you arrive.
When you’re ready for some real track action, get behind the wheel and experience what it’s like to drive your Toyota, GR or Lexus, old or new, on one of New Zealand’s premier race circuits.
Registrations are now open for our Track Activities and the fan-favourite Show and Shine, so secure your spot today.
Looking for even more adventure?
Join us on Sunday 4th April for the annual Toyota Festival 4x4 Trek.
Off-Track Activities
Show and Shine Competition
Categories will be based on vehicle model: Prizes will also be awarded for Best Original, Best Engine Bay, Best Interior, and the popular People’s Choice award.
Timing: Judging will commence at 9.00am and the winners will be announced at 3.30pm (approx.).
Your vehicles will require a Show and Shine sticker to be displayed on the windscreen to qualify for judging (provided at Gate).
GR Hub
Looking for a place to chillout and experience some off-track action? The GR Hub will have a range of activities and chill-out areas. We'll also have a fantastic range of food vendors onsite.
Toyota Parade Lap & Main Straight Photo
Ever dreamed of taking your Toyota, GR or Lexus out on track? Enjoy a slow cruise around the circuit, stopping on the main straight to line up all the cars for a unique photo opportunity. The best part? It's free, and you can bring passengers along with you.
Toyota 86 Championship & Kids Hilux Pit Stop Challenge
Challenge a friend and put your skills to the test in the Toyota 86 Championship or Kids Hilux Pit Stop Challenge. Prizes will be awarded for the three fastest times of the day.
Merchandise
Get into gear and check out the latest GAZOO Racing New Zealand merchandise. Eftpos will be available.
GAZOO Racing New Zealand Simulators Challenge
Wanting to kill some time between your track sessions? Have a go on the amazing race simulators and be in to win some cool prizes.
GR Parts
Looking to supe up your kit? The GR Parts team will be on site with the opportunity to purchase fresh GR Parts, including a GR Yaris kitted out with more than 20 genuine GR upgrades to spark your imagination and show what’s possible for your own build.
On-Track Activities
Track Plus
Your Ultimate Track Experience
Track Plus Inclusions:
Morning Session: 2 x 15 min (A+C) track sessions plus 1 x Gymkhana Session.
Afternoon Session: 2 x 15 min (FULL GT Circuit)
Cost: $299 per person
Time: 9.00am - 4.30pm
Track Cruise
Cruise the full track in your own car (passengers allowed).
Join other enthusiasts behind the wheel of your road or circuit car for a circuit of the Highlands Track.
Track Cruise Inclusions:
2 x 30-minute speed-controlled sessions of the full GT Circuit. Passengers permitted at no additional cost, strictly no children in car seats.
Cost: $59 per car, passengers free
Timing: 12.55pm
4x4 Trek South Island
Embark on the South Island 4x4 Trek
Toyota’s legendary 4x4 Trek brings an adrenaline‑charged, medium‑level exclusive off‑road adventure where you’ll crawl over rocks, crest hilltops, and farmland.
Spaces are limited, so registration is essential. This five‑hour epic includes a mid‑way refreshment stop and is fully supported by our Toyota 4WD experts.
Cost: $89 per vehicle
Time: 9.30am – 3.00pm, Sunday 4th April 2027
For Off-Track event queries please contact the team at
events@toyota.co.nz
For On-Track related queries please contact the team at
events@highlands.co.nz
Frequently Asked Questions
General
The Toyota Festival is the largest manufacturer track event of the year hosted by Toyota New Zealand. The purpose of the event is not only to provide a safe and enjoyable day on the track but to celebrate with Toyotas number one fans. You can expect to see a variety of on and off-track activities such as Track Sessions, Gymkhana and a Show & Shine Competition. Or you can just come along for the day and enjoy for free.
The gates open at 7.00am – gate entry is off Cemetery Road and following the signage. The official welcome will take place at 8.00am.
Entry and parking to the event is free for everyone, and if you own a Toyota, Lexus or GR, you can park in the Show and Shine car parking, limited to spaces on the day if you have not registered.
Yes we typically have our GAZOO Racing New Zealand and Toyota Festival merchandise available for purchase. EFTPOS is available.
Yes, there will be a variety of food vendors and coffee available for purchase. If you have any special dietary requirements, we recommend that you bring your own food.
Although you won’t be able take part in the activities e.g. Track Sessions and the Show & Shine, you are most welcome to attend and ponder why you don’t already own a Toyota. Spectator entry is free and there will be public parking available for your non-Toyota vehicle outside of the venue.
Yes, all Lexus vehicles are welcome in all activities.
Yes, you are welcome to however there will be areas that have restricted access. If you are interested in accessing these restricted areas please contact us. We have a professional photographer and film crew working throughout the day. All images will be posted on our Flickr account
On-Track
Once you register online you should you receive a confirmation email from us.
Yes, you can. Please register for both, and advise the gate staff on the day.
We would suggest that you enter the slow / beginner group and drive within your own ability. There will be professional driver instructions assisting on the day that can provide tips and advise.
Passengers are not permitted during Track Plus sessions. However, you can register to take passengers during the Track Cruise and Parade Lap sessions.
The track sessions are all in a controlled environment, and will be lead by one of our pro drivers in a pace vehicle. Please drive to the speed that you feel safe and comfortable with. We split cars up into 3 groups ranging from slow, medium, and fast. The Track Sessions are non-competitive, and it’s your own pride and joy you are driving. Look after each other out there. We want everyone and their rides to return home in one piece.
Yes, racing slicks, and semi slicks can be used.
No, assuming your car is roadworthy (i.e. has a current WOF and is registered) or is a race car with a current MSNZ logbook. The brakes will be worked harder than usual. We recommend visiting your local Toyota Store in your area for a check-up prior to the event.
For the Track Plus (full day) option, you’ll get 2 x 15 min (A+C) track sessions plus 1 x Gymkhana Session. You’ll also then get the afternoon session which includes 2 x 15 min sessions on our full GT Circuit. The Festival gates will open at 7.00am, followed by a compulsory drivers briefing at 8.00am. The first Track Session will begin at 9.00am and run throughout the day until around 4.30pm. Your Track Sessions are spread out during the day giving you plenty of time to rest and check out other things that are happening.
Yes, you are welcome to enter.
Unfortunately no, but you can still come along and spectate.
You do need a certified helmet in good condition, MX helmets are not allowed. If your vehicle has a 4-point harness or more, you must wear a frontal head restraints (FHR).
Suitable helmet certifications are:
- FIA8858-2002,
- FIA8858-2010
- SFI-Spec 38.1
A race suit is required (minimum of a single layer fire retardant race suit) required for most track activities. Covered shoes must be worn (no sandals or jandals).
Yes, we offer refunds until seven days prior to the event. Any refund requests after this time will be processed at our discretion.
Stay Updated
Keep up to date with news and updates by following our Toyota New Zealand or GR New Zealand Facebook or Toyota New Zealand and GR New Zealand Instagram channels.