The 2027 Taupō Historic GP and New Zealand Grand Prix meetings will celebrate one of the most significant eras in New Zealand motorsport history, with a dedicated Formula Atlantic / Formula Pacific field returning to the spotlight. From the late 1970s through to the mid-1990s, these spectacular “wings and slicks” single-seaters represented the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in New Zealand, attracting international stars like Keke Roseberg, Roberto Moreno and Jos Verstappen as well as producing local legends such as Ken Smith, Mike Thackwell, Craig Baird, Greg Murphy and many more.

Formula Atlantic / Pacific machinery brought world-class racing to circuits around the country, with the New Zealand Grand Prix becoming a showcase event during this golden era. The 2027 season will honour this heritage, culminating at the New Zealand Grand Prix with the prestigious Tim Miles Memorial Trophy race — a fitting tribute to the passion and contribution of one of New Zealand motorsport’s great supporters.

Blending in with the Formula Atlantic’s will be the Formula Racing NZ class, bringing the excitement of modern “Wings and Slicks” open-wheel racing to New Zealand’s premier circuits, featuring Toyota FT40 and FT50 Formula cars. As the country’s leading domestic single-seater category, the championship provides a vital pathway for emerging talent, giving the next generation of racers the opportunity to compete in the same machinery that has launched international careers. 

FT40 and FT50 competitors include Supercars champion and NASCAR racer Shane van Gisbergen, Formula One stars Lando Norris and Lance Stroll and current Liam Lawson. Combining close racing, advanced machinery and a proven history of developing world-class drivers, Formula Racing NZ continues the proud tradition of New Zealand open-wheel racing.