Apex was commissioned in 2005 to undertake the detailed design and FIA design approval/homologation for a new hill circuit for V8 Supercars, A1GP and historic Formula 5000 race cars in New Zealand. The circuit construction commenced in 2007 and held its first international event in February 2010.

The design philosophy was to incorporate the views of the drivers, teams and the FIA into a sequence of corners and straights to provide good racing, spectating and safe use for all abilities.

The circuit, which has been voted as "the best circuit in Australasia” is overlooked by residential apartments, which assisted considerably in the commercial viability of this project and allowed the management team to launch the 2.8 km ‘short’ circuit. The 3.8 km circuit, once completed, will have nine corners: five right hand and four left hand.

Hampton Downs was recently acquired by Tony Quinn and has now been extended to the full 3.8 km circuit as designed by Apex in 2005 with other commercial enhancement in the form of a kart circuit, commercial buildings and a full pit complex; Hampton Downs is maintaining its claim to be the best motorsport venue in Australasia.