Getting Started
Getting Started in Karting with KartSport Tokoroa!
Welcome to the thrilling world of karting! At KartSport Tokoroa, we're excited to help you begin your journey in this exhilarating motorsport. Whether you're a junior eager to learn or an adult looking for a new adrenaline-pumping hobby, here's what you need to know to get on track.
Step 1: Come and See Us!
The best way to understand karting is to see it in action! We highly recommend coming along to one of our club race days or practice sessions. This is a fantastic opportunity to:
Experience the atmosphere: Feel the excitement, hear the engines, and soak in the buzz of a race day.
Meet our members: Our friendly community is always happy to answer questions, share their experiences, and offer advice.
See the karts and classes: Get a firsthand look at the different kart classes and age groups to help you decide which path is right for you.
Understand how it works: Observe the race procedures, safety protocols, and general flow of a karting event.
Check our Events Calendar for upcoming dates.
Step 2: Join KartSport Tokoroa – Your Home Club!
To practice or race at any KartSport New Zealand affiliated track (including ours!), you must be a member of a KartSport club. Joining KartSport Tokoroa makes us your "home" club.
Why join us? As a member, you gain access to our facilities, can participate in our club events, and become part of our supportive karting family.
Membership Options: We offer various membership types, including Racing, Family, and Social. Learn more and sign up on our Membership Page.
Step 3: Obtain Your KartSport New Zealand Licence
Once you're a financial member of KartSport Tokoroa, you'll need a KartSport New Zealand (KSNZ) licence. This is mandatory for all drivers for practice and competition.
There are a few licence types:
Practice Licence: Ideal for those who want to get some track time and learn the ropes before committing to racing. This allows you to practice at affiliated tracks.
Competition Licence: For those ready to jump into racing! This allows you to practice and compete in official KartSport New Zealand events.
One-Day Competition Licence: If you just want to "try before you buy" a full licence, some clubs offer a limited number of one-day licences for competition on specific club days. Check with us on the day if this is an option you'd like to explore.
How to Apply for Your KSNZ Licence:
KartSport New Zealand has an online licensing system. You will typically:
Select KartSport Tokoroa as your home club.
Choose the licence type you require.
Complete the online application form and medical declaration.
For applicants under 18, proof of age (birth certificate or passport) is required.
Pay the licence fee.
Your digital licence will be accessible via the KartSport New Zealand App (available on Google Play and the App Store) once approved. You will need to present this digital licence at events.
Step 4: Get Your Karting Gear!
Safety is paramount in karting. Before you hit the track, you'll need the right approved safety equipment.
Essential Safety Gear (must comply with KartSport New Zealand rules):
Helmet: An approved motorsport helmet (check for current standards, often Snell or FIA approved).
Race Suit: Full racing overalls, typically CIK-FIA homologated, with your first and last name stitched or screened on the chest.
Gloves: Substantial material, giving full hand and finger protection.
Footwear: Enclosed shoes that provide full foot and ankle protection (race boots are recommended).
Neck Brace/Collar: Often required for junior classes and highly recommended for all drivers.
Rib Protector: Highly recommended for all drivers to prevent bruising and injury from karting forces.
Where to Buy Gear: There are several dedicated karting shops and online retailers in New Zealand that can supply new and used equipment. You can also often find good second-hand gear through club contacts or online classifieds.
Step 5: Find Your Kart and Class!
This is where the fun begins! KartSport New Zealand has various classes designed for different age groups, engine types, and skill levels.
Age Groups: Karting caters for drivers as young as 6 years old (Cadet ROK) right through to senior classes.
Common Classes to Start In:
Cadet ROK (Ages 6-10): Where many champions begin, with restricted performance for learning.
Vortex Mini ROK (Ages 9-13): A step up from Cadet, with the same engine but without the restrictor.
Junior Rotax Max / Junior DVS (Ages 12-16): Progression into faster junior categories.
Rotax Max Senior / Senior DVS / DD2 / KZ2 (Ages 15+): Popular and competitive senior classes with varying power levels and maintenance requirements.
Buying a Kart:
New Karts: Chassis can range from $4,000 - $6,500, with engines adding another $3,500+.
Second-hand Karts: A good used setup can be found from $2,500 - $4,000, but it's crucial to ensure the kart and engine are legal to KartSport New Zealand rules and to check for any damage. We strongly recommend having an experienced karter or a reputable kart shop inspect any second-hand purchase.
We can help! Don't hesitate to talk to our experienced members or committee if you need advice on which class to choose or where to find a suitable kart.
Step 6: Get Ready to Practice & Race!
Once you have your membership, licence, kart, and gear, you're ready to hit our track!
Practice Sessions: Book your practice sessions through our online Membership Portal. Remember to always practice with another person present at the track, as per KSNZ rules.
Race Days: Our club days are structured events where you can test your skills against other members. You'll need a timing transponder for race days (these can be leased from KartSport NZ or sometimes hired from the club).
Important Notes:
Rule Book: Familiarise yourself with the KartSport New Zealand Rule Manual. It's essential for safety and fair competition. You can find it on the official KartSport New Zealand website.
Pit Etiquette & Track Rules: We have specific rules for using our facility safely and respectfully. These will be provided upon membership.
Ask Questions! Seriously, there's no such thing as a silly question when you're starting out. Our club committee and experienced members are always willing to help.
We look forward to seeing you at KartSport Tokoroa and helping you kickstart your karting adventure!