TRAINING

YOUNG DRIVERS

YOUNG DRIVER TRAINING

At DownForce, our aim is to create a welcoming environment that caters to drivers of all backgrounds and skill levels. We believe that building experience and confidence on the road goes hand in hand with having a blast. With a focus on providing a controlled and safe setting, we strive to offer engaging events and exceptional training programs that not only enhance driving skills but also guarantee a memorable and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Whether you're a seasoned driver looking to sharpen your technique or a novice seeking to gain confidence behind the wheel, our team of experienced instructors is here to guide you every step of the way. So, come join us and embrace the thrill of driving while cultivating invaluable skills in a lively and supportive atmosphere.

DRIVEN NZ

Thanks to the team at Driven NZ for their support. Checkout footage from their time on the programme with us.

Video courtesy of Driven NZ.
Producer: Ysabella Smith
Editor: Ben Fowler

“The risk of crashing diminishes with the experience and the development of decision-making skills to recognize risky situations and make safe choices”

- NZTA Official Government Study

TRAINING PROGRAMS

The main aim of our Downforce Driver Training Programmes is to provide drivers of all ages with the right tools to drive safely and with more confidence in both their skill level and their vehicle. Understanding the risks involved in driving and knowing how to control them is perhaps the most valuable safety measure tool. The main focus of our Driver Training Programmes is to get drivers behind the wheel in controlled practical driving situations as opposed to classroom theory sessions. To ensure each driver get’s the most out of their session with us we have designed each course to be suitable enough for all vehicle types.

THERE ARE TWO PROGRAMMES TO CATER FOR VARIED LEVELS OF DRIVING SKILL AND AGES.

LEVEL 1 AND LEVEL 2.

LEVELS

There are two programmes to cater for varied levels of driving skill and ages.

(Per Driver)

$379

Level One

Level 1 of the Downforce Driver Training Programme is designed for drivers who would like to enhance their skills and practice safe driving techniques to build their confidence on the road. This programme will focus on driving techniques related but not limited to emergency braking, following distances, reversing and distracted driving. To ensure each driver gets the most out of their session with us we have designed this course to be suitable enough for all vehicle types.

(Per Driver)

$439

Level Two

Level 2 of the Downforce Driver Training Programme is designed for drivers who have had more experience on the road and would like to refine their driving skill.

The exercises in Level 2 are a step up from those in Level 1 and there are several more challenging elements from the Level 1 Programme. These additional activities include Skid Control - learning to regain control of a vehicle in an understeer and oversteer situation, and an Emergency Lane Change highlighting the benefits of stability control and how to best use the systems in your vehicle. To ensure each driver gets the most out of their time we have designed this course to be suitable enough for all vehicle types.

The ideal pathway is to complete Level 1 followed by Level 2 on the same day, or at a later date. If you feel you would like to start with Level 2 please contact us.

DRIVERS WILL BE DRIVING THEIR OWN VEHICLES, AND ON OCCASION A VEHICLE WILL BE SUPPLIED FOR SPECIFIC DRIVING ACTIVITIES.

Please contact drive@downforce.co.nz if you need further clarification on this.

Addtional Information

  • Session times will be approximately 4 hours onsite, from either 8.30 AM – 12.30 PM, or 1.00 PM – 4.30 PM depending on your session time.

    You will be required to arrive 15 minutes earlier to complete registration

  • The per person cost will vary depending on the programme you are interested in.

    Group Booking Special Offer:

    If you would like to book a group of 8 friends then please enquire with us at drive@downforce.co.nz and we will be more than happy to offer you a special discount code, giving you 15% off per person.

  • Hampton Downs Motorsport Park

    This venue is approximately a 45-minute drive from Auckland’s CBD and Hamilton’s CBD.

    We will provide additional information regarding directions in your confirmation email.

    Driving on the motorway/expressway is significantly different to driving around the city, therefore depending on your driving ability and experience we highly encourage if you are less experienced to arrive and depart the venue with a guardian in the car with you.

  • The training will take place in your own vehicle. On occasions there may be additional cars which are used for certain driving activities, however the core focus of the programme is building experience in your own vehicle.

  • We strongly advise that the car you bring on the day is the car you drive regularly.

    Every vehicle participating in a Downforce event MUST have a valid Warrant of Fitness. Any vehicle that does not display a valid Warrant of Fitness will not be permitted to participate.

    Remember to fill up your vehicle with fuel prior to arriving at the track for your session. There is a self-service Gull Station at the Hampton Downs off ramp should you require any last-minute fuelling.

    We encourage you to advise your insurer that you are taking part in a controlled driving training programme with Downforce prior to your session at the track. Please ensure you make it clear that the event is for driver training and is not competitive in any sense. It is the driver’s responsibility to organise their own insurance.

    All drivers must sign a waiver of liability prior to driving with Downforce. If you are under the age of 18 then this will also need to be signed by your parent/guardian. If your parent/guardian will not accompany you on the day then we can arrange to have this signed prior to your session

  • We strongly advise that you wear flat soled, enclosed shoes and comfortable clothing. Be prepared for any weather conditions and bring warm clothing.

    There is no need for any additional race clothing (helmets, race suits etc)

  • Bottled water and light snacks will be available throughout your session.

    Alternatively there is a cafe onsite - Aoraki Coffee open from 7.30 AM until 3.30 PM should you wish to grab a meal prior or after your session.

  • On the day we will be grouping drivers into groups of 8.

    If you and your sibling/friend book into the same session, please ensure you state the name of the person/s you wish to be grouped with in the last question on the registration form. We will endeavor to ensure you are in the same group on the day.

We hope these FAQs answer any questions you have about the programmes, however if you find you still have questions or if you wish to discuss your individual experience then please don’t hesitate to contact us at drive@downforce.co.nz or on +6496362276