Go Karts – Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park

Queenstown’s Highlands Go-Karts: An Authentic Thrill for All Ages

If you’re looking for a high-octane activity in Queenstown that’s equally suited for families, friends, or solo adventurers, Highlands Go-Karts at Highlands Motorsport Park might just be your perfect match. For just under $33 per person, you get around 45 minutes of racing fun on a state-of-the-art track, featuring German-built Rimo karts capable of reaching speeds up to 50 km/hr. The activity is well-positioned for those who want a quick adrenaline fix but also appreciate the professionalism and safety of a top-tier facility.

What really stands out about this experience are two things: the quality of the karts—which are not worn out—and the long, well-designed track that challenges your driving skills without feeling intimidating. Plus, the staff’s dedication to safety and making sure everyone feels comfortable is clear from the moment you arrive. On the downside, if you’re expecting a very long session or multiple rounds, you might find the 10-minute race a bit short, especially for competitive types eager to beat their best lap time. Still, it’s a perfect activity for a half-day outing that combines speed, fun, and a bit of friendly rivalry.

We think this tour suits anyone with a spirit of adventure—whether you’re a speed junkie, a family wanting a safe but exhilarating activity, or a group of friends looking for a memorable challenge. The facility is clean, well-managed, and safety-conscious, making it an attractive option even if you’re new to go-karting. If you’re in Queenstown and craving a fun, action-packed activity that’s suitable for all levels, Highlands Go-Karts should be on your list.

Key Points

• Top-quality karts: German-built Rimo karts capable of 50 km/hr.
• Long, purpose-built track: 650 meters of racing with challenging turns.
• Safety first: Helmets and gear included, with safety briefings provided.
• Flexible options: Single and two-seater karts, solo or tandem.
• Affordable thrill: Around $33 per person for roughly 45 minutes.
• Ideal for all ages: Not just for kids—adults and families love it too.

A Deep Dive into the Highlands Go-Karts Experience

Queenstown’s Highlands Motorsport Park is renowned for its high-end motorsport facilities, but for visitors, the go-kart track is a standout for accessible fun. It’s a purpose-built 650-meter outdoor track, edged with nearly 5,000 tyres that serve both as safety barriers and visual markers. This isn’t a cramped circuit; it’s designed to give you a satisfying stretch of racing that builds up some real speed.

The karts themselves are German-engineered Rimo models, which means they’re built for performance and reliability. With speeds reaching 50 km/hr, they offer enough adrenaline to excite seasoned racers while still being manageable for beginners. Some reviews highlight how “the carts are fast without being crazy,” making it a perfect balance that encourages you to push yourself. Whether you’re racing solo or with a partner in a two-seater, the experience feels authentic and competitive without crossing into dangerous territory.

Safety gear is provided—helmets and other protective equipment—ensuring peace of mind. The staff are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, with reviewers frequently mentioning how they help newcomers get comfortable behind the wheel. The safety protocols seem rigorous; one review notes a “great safety video,” which helps first-timers understand how to race securely.

The track layout offers a longer than usual course, which means more laps and more chances to improve your speed. Several reviews rave about how the track “really tests your driving skills,” making it more engaging than a typical go-kart setup. The longer track also means it’s less repetitive and more fun, especially if you’re competitive or just want to see how fast you can go.

Pricing and duration are quite reasonable, considering the quality of the experience. For just over $32, you get about 45 minutes of racing time, which includes pre-race instructions and safety gear. This is a good value, especially given the high quality of the karts and track. Some guests wish they had booked two rounds, as 10 minutes can feel brief for those eager to beat their best lap.

Who is it for? The consensus from reviews is that Highlands Go-Karts isn’t just for kids. It’s a thrilling activity for all ages, from teenagers to grandparents. Families particularly love the tandem options, letting kids have a turn driving while parents supervise. It’s also a fantastic team-building activity—a chance for friends or colleagues to have some fun and friendly competition.

What Makes Highlands Go-Karts Stand Out?

The Quality of the Equipment

Unlike many outdoor go-kart tracks, Highlands prides itself on offering German-built Rimo karts. Several reviews emphasize how “the cars were superb,” and the quality of the equipment hugely impacts the overall experience. When you’re zooming around the track at manageable but exciting speeds, it’s reassuring to know the carts are reliable and well-maintained.

The Track Design

The 650-meter layout is an impressive feature, offering enough length for a meaningful race rather than a quick lap. The track’s edges lined with thousands of tyres contribute to safety, but also add a visual appeal that heightens the thrill. The design pushes racers to master their steering and braking, making every lap more satisfying.

Safety and Staff

A recurring theme in reviews is how safety is prioritized without making the activity feel sterile. The team’s friendly attitude helps shy or hesitant participants feel comfortable, and the clear instructions ensure everyone understands how to drive safely. The safety gear and safety briefing contribute greatly to a worry-free experience.

The Versatility of Options

Whether you prefer a solo challenge or want to race tandem with a family member or friend, the available single and two-seater karts suit different preferences. The variety makes it accessible, and the competitive element encourages repeat visits—trying to beat your fastest lap or racing against others.

The Price and Overall Value

At around $32.93, this activity offers excellent value. For less than the cost of a movie ticket, you get nearly an hour of racing excitement, professional safety measures, and a chance to test your driving skills on a high-quality track. Reviewers have noted that they would happily pay for more laps or multiple rounds, which speaks to the activity’s appeal and affordability.

While some might find the 10-minute racing session short, it’s enough for a thrilling taste of racing. If you’re craving a longer experience, you could consider returning or booking additional laps if available.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This go-karting adventure is best suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a fast-paced activity with a safety-conscious environment. It’s excellent for kids aged 10 and above, with tandem options allowing younger drivers to experience the thrill under supervision. It also appeals to adults looking for a fun challenge or a break from sightseeing.

If you’re after a unique, hands-on activity that combines excitement with safety and quality, Highlands Go-Karts is worth your time. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a complete novice, you’ll find something to love here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, the activity is family-friendly. Kids as young as 10 can participate, especially in tandem karts, and safety gear is provided.

How long is the racing session?
The activity lasts approximately 45 minutes, including safety briefing and gear fitting. The actual race time is around 10 minutes, but you might find it’s enough to get your adrenaline pumping.

Are the karts fast?
Yes, the German-built Rimo karts can reach speeds of up to 50 km/hr, providing a thrilling experience that balances speed and safety.

What safety equipment is included?
Helmets and safety gear are provided and included in the price, ensuring you race with confidence.

Can I race in a group?
Absolutely. You can race solo or with a partner in tandem karts. The facility is suitable for groups and even makes a good team-building outing.

Do I need prior experience?
No experience is necessary. Staff are friendly and helpful, offering guidance to first-timers, making it accessible for everyone.

To sum it up, Highlands Go-Karts at Highlands Motorsport Park in Queenstown offers a well-managed, high-quality racing experience for a reasonable price. The track is long enough to challenge your driving, and the karts are fast but safe, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels. It’s a perfect activity to add some adrenaline and friendly competition to your New Zealand adventure, especially if you value safety, quality, and fun in equal measure.

Whether you’re a family with kids eager to race, a group of friends seeking a memorable challenge, or a solo traveler craving a thrilling break, Highlands Go-Karts is a must-do activity that promises plenty of smiles and a few friendly banters. Just be prepared to want to come back for more laps.