Shane Van Gisbergen is swapping his V8 Supercar hat for a drifting one as he competes in this weekend's Demon Enegry Drinks D1NZ National Drifting Championship Series at ASB Baypark.

After finishing second in the 2014 V8 Supercars Championship and a dominating performance in the recent New Zealand V8SuperTourers Enduro Season, the Kiwi motorsport ace is being backed by Hyper Drive in a return to the D1NZ Pro-Championship.

Graeme Smyth on the track. Photos: Tracy Hardy.

Van Gisbergen says he's excited to be competing at home, who returns to New Zealand this week after completing test sessions with Team AJR ahead of the upcoming Daytona 24 Hour Endurance Race in the USA.

"I'm excited to get back in the series, I've watched the last few rounds and missed being a part of D1NZ. Thanks to the support of Hyper Drive, Lj Hooker, Baron Leather Goods and Lucas Oils it's great to be a part of the series again. The Baypark round is the best of the series, tight track for close battles and a massive crowd makes for an awesome atmosphere, i can't wait to get amongst it next week!"

Shane will be piloting the ex-Cole Armstrong RB30DET powered Nissan R34 Chassis with backing from Hyper Drive, LJ Hooker Manurewa, Karaka and Pukekohe, Red Baron Leather and Lucas Oils.

Series Organiser Brendon White says it's fantastic to have a high profile international return to compete in the series.

"It's really humbling to see someone like Shane return home to compete in our category, he's got a fantastic car prepared for him and with a couple of podiums under his belt last season with Rattla Motorsport Id say he's going to be the cat among the pigeons at Baypark.”

ASB Baypark plays host to Round 3 of the 2014/15 D1NZ Championship Series this weekend with a star-studded entry list and a huge line up of supporting entertainment including Team Battles, FMX, D1NZ RC, Show Cars and much more joining whats been dubbed the 'Summer Smoke Out'.

For more information visit www.d1nz.com

Smoke billowing from the tyres of a competitor's vehicle.

Black rings in the carpark, evidence of the drifting taking place.