Independent Track Evaluation – Raising the Standard Across New Zealand’s Rental Kart Industry

In recent years, WorkSafe has made significant changes to the way karting and amusement operators manage compliance. One key change is that WorkSafe no longer requires device registration for go-kart tracks.

While this might sound like a relief for many track owners, it’s also created a new challenge — with less formal oversight, the responsibility for maintaining safety and operational standards now sits entirely on each operator’s shoulders. As anyone in the industry knows, that’s no small task.

At Rental Karts New Zealand, we understand how this shift has left many tracks feeling exposed. Without consistent checks or independent validation, it’s easy for small issues to slip through the cracks — and over time, that can lead to bigger risks. We believe there’s a gap in the industry that needs to be filled, one that supports operators and protects both businesses and their customers.

Introducing Our Independent Track Evaluation Program

We’re developing an annual on-site systems and health & safety review — an independent audit service designed to help track owners maintain confidence in their operations.

The purpose is twofold:

1. To create an industry-wide benchmark so that every rental kart venue in New Zealand can be measured against the same professional standard.

2. To provide external reassurance, giving operators an unbiased, professional assessment of how their systems stack up and where they can improve.

This service goes beyond a tick-box inspection. It’s about collaboration — helping track owners identify strengths, address weaknesses, and make improvements that benefit the entire industry. If we all work toward the same standards, everyone wins.

How It Works

As I travel across the country visiting different rental kart venues, we can schedule these track audits during site visits, making them convenient and cost-effective. This keeps the price reasonable, without compromising on the depth of the review.

Each audit will assess your:

• Operational systems

• Track safety and signage

• Maintenance and reporting processes

• Risk management and emergency procedures

• Staff training and supervision

• Customer safety and communication standards

You’ll receive a detailed report comparing your site against other leading tracks and our own in-house systems, with clear recommendations and guidance where improvements can be made.

If areas fall short, we can also assist with action plans and system improvements to help get everything back on track.

Why It Matters

Our goal is simple — to ensure New Zealand’s rental kart industry maintains the highest safety and operational standards possible. By offering a consistent, independent review system, we can collectively lift the bar for safety, professionalism, and customer confidence across every region.

This isn’t about regulation. It’s about responsibility — and about creating a stronger, safer, and more sustainable future for everyone in the industry.

Interested in booking an independent track evaluation?

Contact Nick Fowler at rentalkarts@gmail.com or call 021 851 110 to discuss your site and how we can help.