It's the third year the city has hosted the motor racing event, but the first with the light rail in operation.

Long but quick-moving ques formed at Newcastle Interchange on Friday morning as those who alighted from trains waited to board a tram.

Trams are only running as far as the Queens Wharf stop, where passengers must disembark and make the short walk to the precinct.

They are operating to a 7.5-minute frequency until 7pm tonight, when they will begin running every 15 minutes until shortly before 1am.

Travel on Newcastle light rail is free for Newcastle 500 ticket-holders.

There appeared to be no issues with the city's public transport throughout Friday morning, with extra services running across the various modes.

Trains are running every 20-30 minutes from Maitland towards Newcastle Interchange, while Ferries are running every 10 minutes between Stockton and Queens Wharf.

There are also additional bus services on the city's frequent routes.

Race fans appear to be taking to the water as well, with a throng of boats anchored in Newcastle Harbour alongside the race precinct.

Temperatures have already reached more than 30 degrees in Newcastle East.

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