Red, Orange, Green … Go!
Configuring the tracks
Four race track configurations and two fully functioning pit lanes were designed to allow the 1.3-kilometre and 2.2-kilometre tracks to be raced simultaneously. The complex design of the multiple track interface areas was modelled using road design software.
The geometrical requirements of each section of track differed depending on which vehicles had the most significant track usage in that area. For example, jet cars can reach speeds of over 500 kilometres per hour on the drag strip while racing cars can travel in the opposite direction down the main straight at speeds of up to 280 kilometres per hour.
Challenges included designing off-camber corners, incorporating minimum length requirements to the first corner and the need to have the starting line as flat as possible (1:50), and determining run-off distances and barrier requirements for corners. Connell Wagner also needed to maximise visibility for spectators (including those in corporate boxes), race marshals, broadcasters and pit crews. A structured design matrix identified the constraints and costs of each design component. Key parameters within the design could be quickly adjusted and assessed for potential benefits, costs and programme implications. As there was no capacity in the programme for rework, risk had to be constantly reviewed throughout this phase.
“We had to identify early on what could be changed, as even a small change could have a big knock-on effect,” says Mr Flannery. For example, increasing elevation on a particular corner affected the speed of the corner, which in turn affected the vertical curve lengths, the corner run-off shape and length, and the projected-plane run-off requirements. These affected potential earthwork for that corner, the barrier type and placement, and any adjacent track tie-ins, like pit entry and exit lanes. These effects all had to be anticipated in a high-pressure design environment operating only just in front of construction.
While it’s easier to build a track that’s dead flat, drivers want undulation in a course. “Building a motorsport circuit is not the same as building a public road in terms of shape and contour,” says Mr Maskell. “In fact the objective is to produce a technically challenging environment for a driver and test the skill of the driver and car performance.”
Chris Amon, who flew the New Zealand flag in Formula One racing in the 1960s and 70s, was brought in the review the plan. Aaron Slight’s feedback was also valuable, particularly because he has competed in professional motorcycle racing and raced cars in a number of European series.
Environmental features
Several environmental design features were built into the project. Existing pavement had to be milled and replaced, so it was crushed and reused as a sub-base material for the track.
Well-draining pumice soil and a low water table made the isolated site suitable for onsite wastewater treatment and disposal using an aerated wastewater treatment system. It’s designed to cope with smaller weekend events, with additional storage chambers for flow buffering. Portable toilets allow the site to cope with huge crowds a few times a year.
Stormwater in the business park area is collected in a storage pond, which provides fire water and reduced the cost of water reticulation upgrades. Stormwater from the track is also absorbed through soakage holes.
