ABOUT US

Our Story: From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Adventure Hub

 

Pro Karts was born in 2006, founded by Nick Fowler, a passionate motorsport enthusiast with a background in speedway racing. What started as a dream to bring the thrill of go-karting to Nelson has since grown into one of New Zealand's premier outdoor karting experiences. Our track, strategically located next to Nelson Fun Park in Tāhunanui, was among the first purpose-built go-kart tracks in the country.

 

The journey began with a simple mission: to create an exhilarating and safe racing environment for people of all ages. Over the years, Pro Karts has evolved into a multifaceted adventure park, offering not only karting but also laser tag, trampolining, and other entertainment options that draw visitors from across the region and country.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

In March 2014, Pro Karts faced one of its toughest challenges when a fire broke out at the facility. Despite the significant damage, we emerged stronger, rebuilding and upgrading our facilities to ensure an even better experience for our customers. This resilience is a testament to our commitment to providing top-quality entertainment, no matter the obstacles.

 

A Growing Family

Later, in 2014, the Pro Karts family grew when Nick met his now-wife, Betsy, and her daughter, Olivia. Since then, Betsy has joined forces with Nick to bring out the best in the opportunities in front of them. Together, they have strengthened the business, making it not just a place for thrilling experiences but also a cornerstone of the community.

 

The Birth of IORK

In 2020, we took our passion for karting to the next level with the inception of the Indoor & Outdoor Rental Karts (IORK) Championships. This event has quickly become a highlight in the national karting calendar, attracting competitors from across New Zealand to test their skills on our challenging track. IORK represents our dedication to promoting karting not just as an activity, but as a competitive sport that brings people together.

 

Award-Winning Excellence

Since 2017, Pro Karts has been recognized with the Excellence Award and/or Traveler's Choice Award by TripAdvisor every year. This consistent recognition is a testament to our commitment to delivering outstanding service and memorable experiences for our guests. We are proud to be acknowledged by our visitors as a top destination in Nelson.

 

Expansion and New Ventures

Our growth didn’t stop there. In November 2023, we expanded our operations by acquiring Nelson Fun Park. This acquisition allowed us to bring more family-friendly activities under our umbrella, further cementing our reputation as a leading destination for fun and adventure in Nelson.

The following year, in July 2024, we proudly opened Oceanside Oasis, a luxurious spa pool private hire service located within the Nelson Fun Park complex. Oceanside Oasis offers a tranquil escape, providing our guests with a unique relaxation experience just steps away from the action-packed activities of Pro Karts and Nelson Fun Park.

 

Investing in the Community

At Pro Karts and Nelson Fun Park, we take pride not only in our success and the great experiences we offer but also in our commitment to the local community. We employ young Nelsonians, teaching them basic employment and life skills, and helping to shape the next generation of leaders.

 

Commitment to Excellence

Our dedication to providing top-notch entertainment is matched by our commitment to safety. All our activities are supervised by experienced staff who ensure that every participant has a safe and enjoyable experience. From first-time drivers to seasoned racers, we cater to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile.

 

Looking to the Future

As we look ahead, we remain committed to innovating and expanding our offerings. With new activities on the horizon and plans to further enhance our facilities, Pro Karts and Nelson Fun Park will continue to be the go-to destination for adrenaline seekers and families alike.
 

Thank you for being part of our journey. We look forward to welcoming you to Pro Karts, where the thrill of the race is just the beginning.