Street Smart driver training is in full swing as over 200 young Kiwis take the wheel at Hampton Downs.
The sounds of cars and focused concentration are filling Hampton Downs Motorsport Park over the next two weeks, as more than 200 young drivers and their caregivers take part in the highly anticipated Street Smart driven by Tony Quinn Foundation Road Safety programme, now in full swing at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park across five dates in July.
Taking place on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 6th, and 13th, the training days represent the largest-ever delivery in one school holiday period of the Street Smart programme at a single venue, reflecting surging demand from teens and families eager to boost road safety and real-world driving skills.
Street Smart Programme Director Hayden Dickason said the response has been overwhelming.
“It’s been incredible to see so many young people and parents embracing this opportunity. From day one, the engagement has been high, and the impact even higher. It’s clear that this hands-on, practical approach is making a difference.”
Participants are guided through seven interactive activities covering everything from hazard awareness and safe following distances to distraction management, braking control and emergency reactions, all delivered in a controlled environment with expert instruction.
With several days already complete and more sessions still to come, feedback from attendees has been enthusiastic.
Hampton Downs attendee, Zach said he found the peripheral vision activity the most challenging.
“I was so focused on completing the task I completely missed the things sitting out to the side”, said Zach.
He recommended the programme to others “to make people safer drivers, and more confident on the road.”
Since its launch, Street Smart has supported over 2,500 young drivers across the country. And there will be plenty more opportunities for other young people to partake in this life-saving programme. Further training days are scheduled later this
year, and into 2026 at Hampton Downs, and at venues in Taupō, Cromwell, Invercargill and the new addition of Christchurch.
Greg Murphy, Street Smart Trust Chair and Ambassador, said this latest round of training days reflects a shared desire among families to go beyond the basics of licensing.
“These young drivers are learning skills that could save their lives. It’s not about passing a test, it’s about being prepared for the unexpected. The feedback we’re hearing confirms that the programme is hitting the mark and providing our young people with the skills they need to stay safe out there.”
The Street Smart programme is open to young drivers, and their parents/guardians come along too. Registration details and additional information are available on the Street Smart website www.streetsmart.nz
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