Indoor
Go Karting in Canterbury
Unforgettable go-karting thrills in Canterbury.
Christchurch is arguably the best city in New Zealand for "arrive and drive" racing variety. It is the only place in the South Island where you can choose between a traditional indoor gas track, a modern electric circuit, and an outdoor rental facility all within a 20-minute drive. Whether you want the raw smell of petrol or the instant torque of an electric motor, the Garden City has it covered.
The long-standing champion of the local scene is Supa Karts Indoor Raceway in Sydenham. This facility runs a fleet of French-built Sodi RT8 gas karts, which are widely regarded as the gold standard for indoor racing. They claim to run the "fastest indoor rental karts in NZ" with a limit of approx. 35km/h, on a technical track that requires genuine skill to master. It is also one of the few places offering tandem karts for parents and young children.
For a modern twist, Game Over Christchurch in Riccarton offers a high-tech electric experience. Using 20hp electric motors, these karts deliver instant acceleration that petrol engines can't match off the line. The facility is cleaner and quieter than traditional tracks, making it popular for corporate events and families who prefer a fume-free environment.
If you prefer racing under the sun, Action Kart Raceway near Harewood is the city's outdoor option. It features a classic asphalt track where you can race rain or shine (within reason), offering a looser, more old-school driving feel compared to the tight indoor circuits.
South Canterbury & Timaru: While Timaru has a strong motorsport heritage with Levels Raceway, there are currently no permanent commercial "Arrive & Drive" rental kart tracks in South Canterbury. The South Canterbury Family Kart Club operates a grass/dirt track, but this is a private club for hobbyists rather than a public rental facility.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.
4 kart tracks
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Indoor
Indoor
Supa Karts
Christchurch, Canterbury
Indoor
Game Over Christchurch
Christchurch, Canterbury
Outdoor
Kartsport Canterbury
Christchurch, Canterbury
Indoor
Action Kart Raceway
Christchurch, Canterbury
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.
Go karting in Canterbury - FAQs
Common questions about karting in Canterbury.
It depends on your preference. Supa Karts is best for traditionalists who want gas engines and a mechanical feel. Game Over is better for those who want high-tech electric acceleration and a fume-free environment.
Currently, there are no commercial rental go-kart tracks in Timaru. The local clubs (South Canterbury Family Kart Club) focus on private grass/dirt karting for members. Residents typically travel to Christchurch for paved rental karting.
Yes. Supa Karts offers tandem karts where a child (4-7 years) can sit next to an adult driver. Game Over has Junior Karts for drivers aged 7-12 (min height 120cm).