Ready, Set, Drift

Sliding into existence this spring in Wellsford is Kraken Drift Karts, a new venture run by a local family on their spare paddock.

The family has crafted an outdoor track spanning more than 450-metres, artfully designed to get the best out of these go-karts. An outdoor, off-road adventure providing a very different experience from the typical indoor, concrete tracks that most go-kart venues offer.

The idea took shape when the family were pondering what to do with their ‘spare’ paddock. Aaron, the youngest son and now CEO, and Donna, the eldest daughter, jokingly pitched the idea of laser tag, thinking there was no way Dad, Roy, would ever agree - much less Mum, Anna. To their surprise, Dad countered with another idea: go-karts. After a mix of out-of-control daydreaming and serious contemplation and discussions, they took a family vote and agreed to go for it.

Over winter and the start of spring, they put together a business plan, acquired a go-kart, and began building the track, spending hours perfecting its formation. Their plan is to keep evolving the track to offer fresh, varied experiences in the future.

At first, the family wasn’t sure how much interest there would be from the local community. But when a post on the Mangawhai community Facebook group received 400 reactions in a single day, they realised they’d likely underestimated the demand. Dozens of local community members have expressed their excitement for the venture, saying that the area has been missing an attraction like this. The family is thrilled to offer something fun and outdoorsy for people of all ages - if you can get them off the karts first, that is.

Kraken Drift Karts can currently run up to five karts at a time and are open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 6pm, and by appointment on weekdays. They’re open rain or shine, ready for either a slippery, wet adventure or a fun, dusty ride!

www.DriftKarts.co.nz | 020 434 1466