– Petrolhead’s Palmy Paradise with an Italian Accent
If the month of May finds your desire for pasta and love of Italian engines elevated, then maybe “Alfa May Madness” is your kind of festival.
Born in 1975 as “Manfeild May Madness,” this annual event isn’t just the highlight of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club of New Zealand’s (AROCNZ) calendar, it’s a grand celebration of all things Alfa, from vintage classics to contemporary showstoppers, and all served with a hearty side of Kiwi camaraderie and fun.
Despite its racetrack location, it can’t be stressed enough that Alfa May Madness isn’t exclusive to daredevils with a need for speed; it rolls out a red carpet to every level of passion. For example, if you’re an Alfa newbie or novice, personalised driver training is on hand from AROCNZ’s racing maestros, helping you get the most from your Italian stallion – think of it as a masterclass in not embarrassing yourself in front of the Alfisti elite.
Then again, for those that are seeking more thrills, there’s the sprints, where single and dual-car sessions let you chase your own Personal Bests (and/or the other guy’s tail lights). It’s worth noting, however, that single car sprints are accessible to everyone with a Motorsport NZ day license and the right safety gear; while dual sprints have more hoops but double the bragging rights. Alas, EV and hybrid aficionados must sit this out, Manfeild’s rules mean only the sweet sound of combustion need
apply – just quietly, it’s the traditional Alfa way too!
Of course, Alfa Romeos were born to race and May Madness delivers in spades. Grid up with classic Alfas, the energetic Trofeo-ERC series, and the National Formula First gang – watch their one-hour enduro if you crave rubber-burning endurance as your morning entertainment.
For those not ready to go full throttle, then the lunchtime Track Experience lets you savour 20 minutes on the circuit with no helmet or bravado required, you can even have passengers join you too. Perfect for letting your non-Alfa friends glimpse the hype, minus the G-forces.
And being Italian flavoured, it’s not ALL about the octane either. May Madness is as much about “MMM” (Madness, Merriment, and Mingling) as it is the fine machinery and the Saturday night dinner is always a highlight. For 2025, “PROVINCE” was the theme, and the local Alfisti dressed up to reflect their origins, home, or maybe just their wanderlust dreams. So be prepared for a soirée that’s equal parts costume drama and Italian hospitality.
Being the last day, things cool down on Sunday with casual tea and shared stories, before the last exhaust notes fade away into the distance. It’s fair to say that attendees return home with their spirits high, their wallets lighter and their tyres a little balder.
So whether you come to conquer the track or bask in the Italian-lifestyle and banter, you’ll find it all in Manfeild in May – sure it’s not Amalfi Coast but it’s not madness to dream that it is (even if it is for just a weekend). Alfa May Madness is much more than turning left and right in an expensive Italian car; it’s New Zealand’s ultimate blend of speed and society, fuelled by a community that’s every bit as spirited as the vehicles they adore.
So next May, why not bring your bravado, your love of Alfas, and a sense of humour (you undoubtedly need all three) to balmy Palmy – Grazi Mille.
David Mcleod – Motoring Writer
