For Hadley, the current version of Baypark Speedway isn’t just where he races—it’s where he feels at home. As he prepares to enter his third season as a registered Baypark driver, piloting the 915M Stockcar, Hadley has become a familiar and respected presence in the pit area and on the clay.

While he never got the opportunity to experience the original Baypark Raceway, its reputation still echoes in his journey. “Unfortunately, I never raced at the old Baypark,” Hadley says, “but my old man told me it was an awesome track. Even with the race track around the outside of the speedway, it had a great feel to it. He even got a couple of sneaky sessions in on his road bike, riding around the circuit.”

That old-school history still lingers in conversations at the track today, even among the new generation of drivers. Hadley may not have raced on the original layout, but the stories handed down help connect the past to the present—and for Hadley, being part of the new Baypark scene is something he values deeply.

“I love being part of the current Baypark Speedway,” he says. “I was originally an out-of-town driver, but for the past two seasons, going on three, I’ve been a Baypark-registered Stockcar driver. Now, I’m proud to race as part of the Carter Contracting Baypark Bulldogs Stockcar Team.

The track and facilities here are some of the best in the country, no doubt.”

But while the racing is fierce and the facilities world-class, Hadley—like many in the speedway community—is concerned about the uncertain future of the venue. With public consultation underway and the long-term use of the stadium being debated, he says the thought of losing Baypark would be devastating.

“It would be devastating for the speedway community,” he says firmly. “Baypark has a lot of history, and it’s produced some of New Zealand’s top-ranked drivers. Take Todd Hemmingway, for example—he started out in Ministocks right here and now he’s the 1NZ in Superstocks. That says it all. Baypark builds champions. If it were taken away, it would affect speedway competitors right across the country.”

So, what makes Baypark so special? Hadley’s answer is as clear as it is passionate.

“The facilities are top-notch. But it’s more than that—it’s the people. The promotion team, the volunteers, the drivers. The whole atmosphere. You’ve got hard and fast racing, contact classes mixing it up, a bit of biffing and bashing… it’s an awesome combination,” he explains. “And let’s be honest, the food vendors are some of the best in the country. Top it off with a bit of that Baypark dust in the air and that’s the full speedway experience, right there.”

As a Stockcar driver, Hadley brings more than just aggression and race pace. He’s part of the spirit that keeps the class strong—always looking to help fellow racers when things go sideways, even if it means dipping into his own spares or tools.

“If someone gets stuck with a repair or needs a part and I’ve got something to help, I’m all in—as long as I’m not under the car fixing my own at the time!” he laughs. “I just love seeing full fields out there. It makes the racing better and more entertaining. That’s what it’s all about.”

Racing at Baypark has shaped Hadley in more ways than one. It’s helped sharpen his mindset and strengthen his competitive edge, both on and off the track.

“Baypark’s made me more focused. More driven to be competitive,” he reflects. “When you’re surrounded by a strong field and the crowd’s there watching, it just pushes you to be better.”

And if he had the chance to address Tauranga City Council, the local community, and aspiring young racers considering the sport, Hadley wouldn’t hold back.

“Come and join the family fun,” he says. “Baypark gives you awesome weekends of hard, fast racing, with everything from the up-and-coming Ministock drivers to Sprintcars, F2 Midgets, Super Saloons, Superstocks, Stockcars—you name it. Where else would you want to be on a summer night?”

“Baypark brings people to Mount Maunganui. That means money coming into the region, people supporting local businesses, and families getting together to enjoy something special. Baypark is the place for pace—so get your backside trackside!”