Sailing around a track reaching speeds of 50-60km’s per hour in an exposed kart, the wind as your fuel source and only a helmet and gloves for protection isn’t everyone’s idea of a fun Saturday morning but for Manawatū Blokart Club president John Anderson, “there isn’t a better thrill.”

Established in 2008, the Manawatū Blokart Club initially had 18 members.  To date, the club is the largest in the world with over 100 members and continues to grow.  The oldest member is 83, the youngest 8 years old and 2 paraplegic sailors on the roster, it is clear the sport is inclusive to all ages and fitness levels.

The unique relationship between the Manawatū Blokart Club and the Manawatū District Council was first established in 2011 when the Club was looking for a place to grow.  The undeveloped land at the Sanson Domain seemed like a perfect fit and the rest as they say is history.  The club leases the land from the Council with the agreement to maintain their allocated area.  Since the initial agreement, the Club has fundraised to pave the track, created a parking area and most recently built a covered shed for shelter.  MDC has continued its own development of the overall section which now includes a walking track around the perimeter, a designated freedom camping location and public toilets.

With a population of 670 as of 2023, Sanson isn’t highly populated but is one of the busiest in the Manawatū District for traffic with the intersection of SH1 and SH3. “Building a relationship with the Manawatu Blokart Club has been instrumental in helping to develop and maintain a highly exposed location in the District”, James Adamson, MDC Community Assets Liaison explains.  “It’s amazing to drive by on a Saturday morning to see the colourful sails of the Blokarts flying around the track knowing that the Club is helping us, and the Manawatū District Council is giving the club a place to call home.”

The Manawatu Blokart Club hosted the World Championships in 2022 offering 148 sailors, 40 from overseas, the chance to experience the Manawatū District as they used various facilities to host meals, ceremonies and meetings.  This coming weekend, (3-4 February) the Manawatū Open takes place at the Sanson Domain before 4 members head off to the United States of America in April to compete - including Scott McIntosh who is defending his World Championship title in the lights division.

While the sport can seem intimidating, the club members are willing and welcoming for the public to book a time to give the sport a try offering kart and safety equipment hire. “The club has an incredible sense of community and work ethic,” Adamson says.  “The Manawatū District Council is proud to work alongside the Manawatū Blokart Club.”

For more information on the Manawatū Blokart Club visit: manawatublokartclub.nz

Photo (left to right): Martin Elms Club Secretary, James Adamson Community Assets Liaison, John Anderson Club President, Carl Johnstone Community Assets Manager