2016 NZ Rally Events [Archive]

Jack4688`

16th January 2016, 18:09

This year's schedule as of Jan '16:

1. Otago Rally - April 8-10
2. Rally Whangarei - April 29-May 1
3. Canterbury Rally - June 4-5
4. Gisborne Rally - July 2
5. Rally Coromandel - August 20
6. TBC - October 1

I found this link http://www.gullsports.co.nz/2015/06/2016-championship-to-rally-new-zealands-best-roads/ stating that Rally of the North will be that final round, though the official website states TBC. It also shows round one as Whangarei and round two as Otago so presumably that was before the switch around took place due to Rallye Nouvelle Caladonie shortening the APRC calendar and necessitating the swapping of those two rounds in the NZRC.

I'll be spectaating at Otago at the very least, probably on both the Saturday and Sunday

Zeakiwi

16th January 2016, 19:44

Shakedown of rally Audi at Southern Hawkes Bay sprint.
https://www.facebook.com/stewartmotorsport/

Zeakiwi

4th February 2016, 00:09

Clinton C testing Tinopai Forest, Kaipara, NZ.
https://youtu.be/tCLJqNbRrQs

Jack4688`

13th February 2016, 17:13

New Group A 'challenge' for pre 1992 AWD cars, with a view to a full championship in 2017

https://www.facebook.com/newzealandrallychampionship/videos/1084971534867054/

GravelBen

20th February 2016, 02:13

I'm generally wandering around with a camera at Otago (think this year will make it 10 in a row without missing one!) and a few other southern rallies like Catlins and the Silver Fern when its down here.

Newbie on this forum but been lurking for a while catching up on WRC news.

Couple of photos from Otago last year just for fun...

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8808/17519017291_2162128ac5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/sG6xug)Otago Rally 2015 (https://flic.kr/p/sG6xug) by gravelben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5458/17589429691_728cd50864_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/sNjqDa)Otago Rally 2015 - Day 1 (https://flic.kr/p/sNjqDa) by gravelben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8777/17522104169_737dcbd05e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/sGnn7i)DSC_7807 (https://flic.kr/p/sGnn7i) by gravelben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

AL14

21st February 2016, 12:49

Guys this is OT, but I'm very curious. What do you kiwi think about flag change.
I would be in favour for a number of reasons, and would choose the black and white flag.
But I'm on the other side of the world so I can't judge it properly

GravelBen

22nd February 2016, 05:17

Zeakiwi

1st March 2016, 22:39

Markko Martin to contest Rally Otago 2016 (Mikko Hirvonen will not be attending due to a change of plans by X-RAID/ Mini)

http://velocitynews.co.nz/news.php?id=202

GravelBen

3rd March 2016, 00:05

Would have been good to see Mikko drive but Markko was always pretty spectacular in WRC too, should be good. Wonder if Derek Ayson will snake another Otago Classic title from a celebrity import driver! :D

Zeakiwi

7th March 2016, 10:42

Inky and Spencer to run Skoda Fabia AP4 in nzrc
http://nzrallychamps.co.nz/five-minutes-with-glenn-inkster/

GravelBen

9th March 2016, 00:08

Will be good to see them back in the championship. Bit disappointing that (as far as I know?) Mason won't be competing to give the challengers an established benchmark though. Strange when a multiple champ can't seem to find sponsorship.

Munkvy

9th March 2016, 06:14

I have to wonder if Mason is not willing to compete unless someone else is paying and he has enough support to be competitive. Which is fair enough, being a multiple champ it would be hard to come back and not be competitive due to budget.

I wonder if Skoda and or Mazda will be involved with making more AP4 cars, given there is probably a market in Asia Pacific for them, especially for those who want something they can get a dealer to support them with but don't want to spend R5 money?

Zeakiwi

9th March 2016, 09:12

Sumiyama is down to have a 'Cusco' Toyota Vitz AP 4 car for 2016 Asia Cup rounds.
http://aprc.tv/newsPage.php?Cusco-confirms-two-car-team-for-APRC-and-new-AP4-car-for-Asia-Cup-892
Young and Takale back with the Subaru Impreza cars.

I saw the Japanese 'tech entries' cars at the NZ Targa Bambina required roll cage adjustments in NZ for certification before the event. Might be an idea to have exchange program (NZ - Japan) to get the rally car 'safety equipment' building skills augmented in Japan.

GravelBen

9th March 2016, 10:53

Sounds like there are a few different AP4 cars under construction, the more the merrier for NZRC I reckon!

fredfush

10th March 2016, 13:08

It will be good if the NZ cars actually comply with the AP4 regs and have 1600 turbo engines.

Zeakiwi

10th March 2016, 20:35

The Suzuki from the 'maxi kit' has a 1600cc engine. Parity for the different cc engines can be achieved with electronic control of the engine to give the engines similar engine maps. If the 1600cc engine is lighter it might possibly give a weight advantage to the 1600cc. 1600cc turbo competition engines are likely to cost more versus using an Evo X or Subaru or Honda engine that have readily available competition spec engine parts.
http://news.motorsport.org.nz/achieving-parity-in-the-tlx-v8-field/

Greg Murphy (4 times Bathurst 1000km Touring car race winner) to drive 2.3 fuel injected Chevette at Rally Otago
http://velocitynews.co.nz/news.php?id=231

Mazda 2 AP4 engine bay picture.

http://tinyurl.com/h7toq5y

leighton323

14th March 2016, 22:53

Couple of photos taken from the Northern Rally sprint page.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160314/f3f4f3aa6a53c49d97944faf64c0b47c.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160314/a8d867c0ca53cf2db9294e0152c3a067.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160314/19028a63663cedd577dcbb841f1cee39.jpg

Sent from my SM-G925I using Tapatalk

GravelBen

17th March 2016, 00:07

Mazda 2 AP4 engine bay picture.

http://tinyurl.com/h7toq5y

Gotta love the use of big-budget coke and powerade bottles :D

Jack4688`

18th March 2016, 11:10

Gotta love the use of big-budget coke and powerade bottles :D

Hahaha what's that all about then?

GravelBen

19th March 2016, 01:59

Hahaha what's that all about then?

I assume they're temporary and will be replaced with something shinier, but hey if they do the job...

919

Zeakiwi

19th March 2016, 07:35

One of the longer running NZ rallies- Westland Rally today - 1 Galbraith 2 Summerfield 3 Deane Buist
1 Galbraith/Bracefield (1) 1:06:05.8
2 Summerfield/Summerfield (2) +30.6
3 Buist/Celeste (5) +39.0

Zeakiwi

20th March 2016, 11:46

Pukekohe retirement village named after Possum Bourne.
http://www.rymanhealthcare.co.nz/the-ryman-difference/ryman-news/9995-pukekohe-village-named-in-possum-bournes-honour

Inky's AP4 Skoda rally car intro video is up - audi group engine, sadev sequential, skoda factory panels, door linings etc.

J4MIE

23rd March 2016, 23:03

Is the MC2 still competing this year?

Zeakiwi

24th March 2016, 01:10

Paddon and Hyundai NZ announce Hyundai New Zealand Rally Team with a 'Blue Team' AP4 Hyundai i20.

http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1603/S00806/hyundai-new-zealand-enters-local-rally-sport-with-paddon.htm

I have heard that only limited appearances of MC2 are likely in 2016.

AP4 rules as put online.
http://tinyurl.com/zfq6jyo

Livewireshock

24th March 2016, 06:00

Things certainly are looking interesting for the NZRC in 2016. I have bitten the bullet and booked my flights to Dunedin for Rally Otago. It should be a great event.

leighton323

24th March 2016, 07:15

Is the MC2 still competing this year?
Unsure but maybe the money pot has run dry? I'm still hopeful that they can atleast make a few appearances this year though. You can't build such a beautiful machine and have it sitting in a shed

GravelBen

24th March 2016, 11:42

I saw something on one of the fb rally groups about Kelsey having a beef with the nzrc over possible future rule changes and not wanting to be part of it, but not sure what the real story is.

It would be great to see (and hear) it in action again though, Otago last year was the only time I've seen it - probably the only car to make klinkys rx7 seem quiet!

Jack4688`

26th March 2016, 10:31

I haven't looked recently but I have never seen the MC2 on this year's entry list for Otago. It's a shame but I booked my holiday for NZ without even realising Rally Otago was on the first weekend I'm there so seeing the RX7 and a couple 5 cylinder Audis is a bonus! Hopefully he'll appear at some point this year and I'll have emigrated by then and have the chance to see it!

I like that Hyundai, mainly because a works supported (or national importer supported) team always gives a domestic championship a bit more esteem/gravitas/kudos whatever you want to call it. Is the Mazda 2 a works supported operation? They have big Mazda logos all over it but one shouldn't assume.

J4MIE

29th March 2016, 00:24

Big shame. Sounds like Andy Burton's Peugeot Cosworth being banned over here.

Would've loved to see it in action on the ground, could maybe even have been tempted to fly out for an event just to see it!!

GravelBen

29th March 2016, 05:14

Its an angry wee thing alright.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8859/17520896160_edb9ea5d0e_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/sGgb1y)DSC_7846 (https://flic.kr/p/sGgb1y) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

sollitt

29th March 2016, 21:21

Sounds like Andy Burton's Peugeot Cosworth being banned over here.You couldn't be more wrong.
The facts, not the Facebook fantasies, are that the car is eligible for the NZRC and for it's driver to win the coveted 'Gold Star' presently and it will remain so for the foresee-able future.
There has never (i.e. not once, not ever) been talk in official circles of "banning" this car from any level of NZ rallying.

GravelBen

30th March 2016, 06:15

The facts, not the Facebook fantasies, are that the car is eligible for the NZRC and for it's driver to win the coveted 'Gold Star' presently and it will remain so for the foresee-able future.
There has never (i.e. not once, not ever) been talk in official circles of "banning" this car from any level of NZ rallying.

Yes, that was the impression I had got - that regardless of the facts he had got that idea from somewhere and decided not to compete in NZRC despite being reassured that the car is allowed. It sounds like he will still be doing hillclimbs and local rallies.

Who knows, maybe it was just a cover story for some other reason not to compete - to be honest as quick as the car is (and he is), I don't think he's consistent enough to win NZRC anyway.

See his comments and replies from others here: https://www.facebook.com/alex.kelsey.52/posts/10153853049944875

Zeakiwi

1st April 2016, 01:00

Paddon explains the AP4 Hyundai.
https://youtu.be/QMXaQugS5Gs (1800cc turbo gives it some beans)

https://youtu.be/bd3wBYFqEl4 (Westland Rally 2016 - flowing stages, fairly high speeds, slowing for concrete water crossings - 8.50 )

GravelBen

2nd April 2016, 07:58

Seeding list up for Otago: http://www.chrissport.kiwi/event.php?db=otago2016

Jack4688`

2nd April 2016, 11:19

Seeding list up for Otago: http://www.chrissport.kiwi/event.php?db=otago2016

Can't wait! I didn't realise how many RX-7s there are, plus a few Porsches and a BMW 325i. As a former S2 owner I'm also looking forward to seeing the two 5-cylinder Audis.

Zeakiwi

5th April 2016, 21:00

Three more Force AP4 cars are on the build program for 2016.
http://alittlebitsideways.co.nz/force-motorsport-lines-three-cars-2016-nzrc/

Mk2 RS2000

6th April 2016, 21:17

Things certainly are looking interesting for the NZRC in 2016. I have bitten the bullet and booked my flights to Dunedin for Rally Otago. It should be a great event.

See you there.

Zeakiwi

7th April 2016, 09:38

Paddon at shakedown.
http://tinyurl.com/hz3tseg

Jack4688`

7th April 2016, 22:37

I'm looking at going to watch a bit of SS4 & SS5 tomorrow. I booked my holiday before I knew Otago Rally had moved to April and so unfortunately am looking at 3 hour drives from Queenstown both tomorrow and Sunday - although I can't say I'm not looking forward to the route!

Sunday I'm going to try and get to SS11-SS13 and as much of the afternoon stages as possible.

Has anyone got any recommendations for good spots to spectate and even parking?

GravelBen

8th April 2016, 02:03

Saturday I'm planning to catch some of SS1 then off to (hopefully) see the whole field through SS3 and back down to Palmerston for either SS6 or SS7.

Sunday I'll go to SS10 (spec point there is a good one), and might stick around for the repeat run SS13 but more likely will head off to SS14 as I haven't watched there before. Driven the road though, good fun.

SS4, 5, 11 I think are only accessible from start and finish, you might be better off choosing some other stages. I wouldn't bother going back to Queenstown saturday night either if I was you, just stay in Dunedin or sleep in the car somewhere.

Parking is generally easy on the side of roads, people start parking at the road closure and it backs up from there - if you aren't there early you have to walk a bit further.

GravelBen

8th April 2016, 04:19

This is at the SS10/13 spectator point a few years ago, they're going in the opposite direction this year I think.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3842/14683223976_ac186ce927_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/onvmW5)2010RallyOtago-518 (https://flic.kr/p/onvmW5) by gravelben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

ETA: Here it is going the same way as this year:

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e392/GravelBen/Otago%20Rally%202013/Otago%20Rally%202013%20-%20Sunday/20130407-OtagoRally-368_zps81504f07.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/GravelBen/media/Otago%20Rally%202013/Otago%20Rally%202013%20-%20Sunday/20130407-OtagoRally-368_zps81504f07.jpg.html)

Jack4688`

8th April 2016, 07:56

So I take it the stages without the little logo showing it as a spectator area you not allowed at all, even to make your own way into the stage somewhere? If that's the case, I'll try for SS7 unless I'm up by about 4am tomorrow! Also think my hire car is more than big enough for sleeping in and catch as much of Sunday as I can.

GravelBen

8th April 2016, 09:15

You are allowed to walk in from the stage start and end (as you long as you're sensible obviously), its just generally easier to access good viewing spots from intersections with the stage. Not all roads intersecting the stage are shown as spectator points and some stages (like SS5) don't have any intersecting roads at all. Maps and google earth are handy for choosing good spots.

The spectator points shown on the rally map are just suggestions or popular places to watch, you certainly aren't limited to those.

I'll have to get up early tomorrow too, its about 2.5hr drive to SS1 for me so should hit the road not long after 5am. :uhoh:

Zeakiwi

10th April 2016, 07:49

Paddon gave it the jandal.
http://tinyurl.com/zmks8wt

GravelBen

10th April 2016, 08:06

He certainly did! I expected him to dominate, but not by quite that much. Very impressive drive, visibly more committed than anyone else (except maybe a couple of the Escorts on some corners) everywhere I watched.

Here is his in-car through Kuri Bush:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PScjE2GuZbw&feature=youtu.be

GravelBen

18th April 2016, 10:59

Just uploaded an album of my photos from Otago here: https://flic.kr/s/aHskxKuuiW

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1509/26473133016_3af1a47a03_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GkkJ8S)DSC_5146 (https://flic.kr/p/GkkJ8S) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1658/26473204716_dc55c22d3c_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Gkm6s5)DSC_5617 (https://flic.kr/p/Gkm6s5) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1607/25896502703_d343642bcb_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fsom2V)DSC_6653 (https://flic.kr/p/Fsom2V) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1503/26406741742_1816954366_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GetsjJ)DSC_6688 (https://flic.kr/p/GetsjJ) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1720/26473417296_7f7d16dcc2_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GknbDf)DSC_6892 (https://flic.kr/p/GknbDf) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1671/26226517890_46083f826e_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FXxL3W)DSC_6928 (https://flic.kr/p/FXxL3W) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1660/26433313711_905f13181b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GgPDf8)DSC_7258 (https://flic.kr/p/GgPDf8) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1534/26433308221_201b288b17_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GgPBBt)DSC_7191 (https://flic.kr/p/GgPBBt) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

Jack4688`

19th April 2016, 03:03

That Mazda 2 looks good, I was very impressed with it when I saw it. I don't mind rally cars being small any more, if they're like that :)

GravelBen

19th April 2016, 03:40

So you got to a few stages then? The new AP4 cars all look good in action don't they.

GravelBen

19th April 2016, 11:24

Nice video of the event from Hayden's team: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyR7VrYCgQY

Jack4688`

20th April 2016, 02:49

So you got to a few stages then? The new AP4 cars all look good in action don't they.

Yeah I got to the last stage of the day on Saturday and Sunday. The routes I drove were incredible, especially south out of Alexandra towards Dunedin - I'm really looking forward to that drive again on Tuesday to get back to the airport in Queenstown!

When the AP4s came past there was plenty of noise, speed and just a general sense of drama about them. Then the N/R4/NR4 cars came past and it was a bit of a snooze fest to be honest. Then the RWD stuff came past and that was the highlight of the day in my opinion. I got a couple of good videos of the Escorts and Van Klink's Mazda, might upload them in a bit. I don't understand why some people start going home once the Escorts and RX-7s come through, almost like they assume old=bad...

GravelBen

20th April 2016, 12:02

I don't understand people leaving early either! Some people seem to think the best way to watch a rally is to rush about madly trying to catch the top 10 cars through as many stages as possible, but I generally find the classics the most fun too.

Jack4688`

20th April 2016, 12:12

It seems that Rally Coromandel is the final round - in August! There seemed to be a lot of chatter about it being just five rounds this year from the videos I saw and now the championship website has removed that TBA round in October. What happened to Wairarapa? Are there any other events that could step up to the NZRC for next year?

Zeakiwi

20th April 2016, 23:07

There is the week long Silver Fern Rally at the end of 2016.
http://www.silverfernrally.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Copy-of-2016-NZSF-Provisonal-Itinerary-V8a.pdf

Jack4688`

22nd April 2016, 08:36

Heard of that but I didn't realise it's a week long!

Mk2 RS2000

22nd April 2016, 22:16

Heard of that but I didn't realise it's a week long!

This years version has all the stages held in the South Island all south of Christchurch. A number of totally new stages for NZ rallying, some rehashed and changed around from years gone by, very few what one may call current stages or parts of current stages and no repeat stages. It is a marathon rally and a week of total rallying pleasure.

GravelBen

22nd April 2016, 23:17

I should check the calendar - I've taken time off work to follow the lower South Island parts of the Silver Fern around with a camera previous years, its a great rally.

Jack4688`

25th April 2016, 00:22

Whatever happened to events like Southland Rally and Rally Rotorua?

GravelBen

25th April 2016, 00:47

I think its a long time since there was a Southland Rally, but Catlins Rally is still a regular and popular event (not an NZRC round though) and there are often smaller club rallies like Gore, Rankleburn, Lawrence etc in Southland/Otago as well.

I think South Canterbury's Spring Rally still runs as a club rally, but has has been all forestry roads the last few years instead of public road stages - good memories of my childhood introduction to rallying spectating on Backline Road.

Here is a clip from the reliably entertaining Derek Ayson at last years Lawrence Rally: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baukKReKuzY

Jack4688`

25th April 2016, 01:53

That's one hell of a road! What about North Island events like Rotorua, Hamilton and last year's season finale Wairarapa?

GravelBen

25th April 2016, 02:41

Not sure, wrong island for me!

raybak

25th April 2016, 05:16

What has happened to Wairarapa? With direct flights from Canberra to Wellington starting in September was looking forward to heading over for it, only to find the event not on the calendar.

With the new direct service, I will be competing a lot more in NZ next year.

Ray

Zeakiwi

26th April 2016, 01:49

It was explained last year the challenges of holding a rally in the Southern North Island around October.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/70693434/Streamlined-Daybreaker-Rally-Wairarapa-absorbs-the-old-Manawatu-Daybreaker
http://www.seabrightmotorsport.co.nz/Events.html

It might be an idea to get on the emailing lists of the various car clubs so you know well in advance accurately when events are to be held.
http://www.dannevirkecarclub.co.nz/page/175897
wairarapa car club
http://www.canterburycarclub.co.nz

http://ratec.org.nz/ (Ashley Forest Rallysprint is 17-18th September 2016, warm clothes and rain wear on hand advisable)
http://www.autosport.org.nz/events-calendar/

Loose_Unit

27th April 2016, 19:39

Mk2 RS2000

27th April 2016, 20:48

Zeakiwi

27th April 2016, 21:09

There is also the Taupo race circuit rallies scheduled.
http://www.classicrally.org.nz/
Drifting tends to be a younger persons motorsport for the younger car culture people.
https://youtu.be/weea5FYFR3E

Jack4688`

28th April 2016, 13:30

What about Rallycross, does that have much of a following in NZ?

janvanvurpa

28th April 2016, 15:36

Rallying in the North Island seems to be in a bit of a lull. There is a lot of talk about health of rallying in NZ, but this year we just dont have the events in the North Island. We have Tauranga clubmans and Taranaki (tarmac) as regional/club rallies and that is all. The other 3 are NZRC rounds. I think one of the main problems is lack of young people coming through to help organise and run events, the old hands are getting sick of it and want to step back. I noticed this myself in organising rallysprints, no one new is willing to help create/run events

Interesting...so you can get road permissions, and god knows you guys have the roads --good ones too---in abundance, but not bodies to work the events.

Over here on the other side of the world we look at NZ and once we mop up all the drool looking at the roads, we are always wondering How you guy there (and in Sweden and Finland) do it.

Here in the Pacific North West and far West of Canada we have quite litterally bazillions of miles of very good roads, but relatively speaking a small population base and very small participation numbers AND all the old geezers---who are dyinng off ---have always kept all their contacts with which ever bureaucrats in whichever agencies that have to deal with hard against their chests.
And a few have gone to their graves with all the contacts with them. Those that want to volunteer---and as i build rally related stuff (engines, suspension, gearboxes, axles and some cages) and deal with a LOT of beginners--and always suggest them to volunteer---they get plum jobs like "Ok you can sit here (for 13 hours) and block this road" for a job and often for many many events. (And of course there's no radio, no nothing) maybe, but not often the might get a T-shirt...
So that doesn't work well, and increasingly so as the younger ones NEED to be entertained and able to play with their smart phones continually or the collapse into a sobbing heap.

I don't know but there's a feeling that the old organiser guys look at ANYBODY new as a potential threat to their status and to "their" event.

Admittedly it does seem that nearly ALL guys under maybe 34-35 in the US NEED minute by minute entertainment and a "soundtrack for their life-style" as one put it..
Wait! I had a brilliant idea!
Have you considered cobbing together some sort of sound system and playing deafening Death-metal music at the rally HQ and volunteer training sessions? Sure the noob volunteers wouldn't be able to hear ya but they might stick around, specially if you could have the same 'bleeding from the eardrums' type music at every control zone..

When I started in the early/mid 80s we had 9-10 rallies and maybe a sprint (single stage done 4-6 times) in just Washington, one in Oregon 300km south (which is 'just down the road out here in the West)..Last year we had one rally, one sprint, one "practice day".

I wish ya luck..Such roads you have (last month I spent at least 2 hours just on Google maps looking at roads on the peninsula on the other side of the bay from Aukland.....)

Munkvy

28th April 2016, 21:53

Some more details about AP4 are in Motorsport NZ's newsletter:
http://online.flipbuilder.com/pall/qwtq/

Zeakiwi

29th April 2016, 08:52

MRF Team pre-Whangarei test.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHWh7hXgoIY

Livestream Whangarei
http://livestream.com/rallylivenz/events/4842896

Day 1 vid
https://youtu.be/6BTZct_oGEI
https://youtu.be/P_klMTnfxd4

Mirek

1st May 2016, 11:37

Awesome onboard of Paddon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNZ94H854aU

Pity of the damaged audio but still great to watch. Such a beautiful stage!

Jack4688`

1st May 2016, 20:30

Awesome onboard of Paddon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNZ94H854aU

Pity of the damaged audio but still great to watch. Such a beautiful stage!

Those tarmac sections went on for a lot longer than I expected, must have been pretty hairy on the gravel tyres!

Jack4688`

1st May 2016, 20:42

Day 2:

https://youtu.be/NIDCpiUmdMg
https://youtu.be/rKDCewc2KwM

Toyoda

1st May 2016, 23:13

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xlt1/t31.0-8/13119819_10153457376485925_1099053278918529924_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/t31.0-8/13130941_10153457376640925_8965824084633757816_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtf1/t31.0-8/13087100_10153457375705925_8307832282291338618_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xlf1/t31.0-8/13147547_10153457376110925_7213380226823131595_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtl1/t31.0-8/13120019_10153457376580925_4657564345618976109_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/t31.0-8/13116082_10153457376200925_6820711247777237846_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/l/t31.0-8/13086983_10153457375875925_7375507062542005859_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xlp1/t31.0-8/13131198_10153457375510925_2436530823838135790_o.j pg (http://www.facebook.com)

Zeakiwi

11th May 2016, 22:16

Rally sport (Downunder)
http://rallysportmag.com.au/home/magazine/10398-read-it-now-rallysport-magazine-issue-1-may-2016

Zeakiwi

13th May 2016, 04:52

Targa Rotorua 2016 this weekend (14th- 15th May)
A few interesting cars in the Tour section.

http://targa.co.nz/

http://tinyurl.com/jfjxne9 BMW
http://tinyurl.com/jlf76dz (Porsche GT3 RS)
http://tinyurl.com/hb6qyw6 (Paddon's AP4+ i20 in tarmac spec for Targa Rotorua 2016 - road car tour section (brisk pace rather than competition pace on closed stages)
https://youtu.be/tai5oMFt2Fc (Day 1 - wrap up)

Hopper win with a mighty EVO 3 -with a bit of luck on his side - engine cut out 20 metres before finish line. (What does the rule book say about the pushing assistance?)
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1005764002842990

Zeakiwi

1st June 2016, 22:35

Round 3 of NZRC this weekend in the Ashley and Okuku Forests of the Canterbury Region of NZ.

http://www.autosport.org.nz/5-jun-canterbury-rally/
Holder has given the Evo a good mechanical going over after the first two rounds. Ben Hunt is back after his injury/ accident at Whangarei. Baddock is at his home event.
Gilmour has been supported by Nasser AA with an entry for the Italian Baja.
Chris West is back in the Mirage Proto for gravel.
There are a few names down the order - Trevor Crowe, Josh Marston, Gary Cowan, Brian Stokes - co-driving. Seedings appear to be out of place in a few cases.
It will interesting if Greg Murphy in the Chevette can keep Ray Wilson - Audi Quattro from catching him in the stages.
Could be frosty in the shaded areas at higher elevations.

Zeakiwi

5th June 2016, 08:30

Gilmour won the Canterbury Rally. Should give her a bit of lift before the Italian Baja.

https://youtu.be/6zRkEw0h3X8 morning
https://youtu.be/O3FQ33_UVrw afternoon

Munkvy

7th June 2016, 02:29

What was the deal with Cunningham losing 3rd place?

Zeakiwi

8th June 2016, 08:48

What was the deal with Cunningham losing 3rd place?

Post rally penalty.

Munkvy

8th June 2016, 21:06

Post rally penalty.

Sorry, I meant what for. Looks from chrissport like he had a really long stage time one stage, rather than a specified penalty?

sollitt

12th June 2016, 21:03

There was no post event penalty. Cunningham was delayed by another car stuck in a ford in stage 5, as were a number of other competitors. Other competitors were awarded an assessed time for the stage but as officials determined that Cunningham contributed to both the hold up and his own slow time he was not awarded an assessed time. So effectively he lost 3rd place in stage 5.

Zeakiwi

10th July 2016, 02:53

Holder won the 2016 NZRC. 1st at Gisborne. The car was Paddon's old much used EVO 8. The FB page video shows it was fairly slick through the dogbox.
https://youtu.be/_FQy7IPW_fA

https://youtu.be/MxJNmHHCwBw

Hope Holder can pick up a drive at Rally Australia, or in Asia or China etc to progress his driving.

Zeakiwi

14th July 2016, 23:58

Fiesta Proto for 2017 nzrc
http://www.rallysportmag.com.au/home/nz/10596-new-fiesta-proto-to-contest-nz-rally-championship

Matt Summerfield won the Tauranga Rally in the NZ Ralliart Mitsubishi Mirage Proto.
https://youtu.be/4HzffRv7cNU (incar)

Monit Rally tripmeters.
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1607/S00441/motorsport-electronics-manufacturer-rallies-behind-beginners.htm
http://www.monitrally.com/rally/g_series/gps_plus.html

Zeakiwi

28th July 2016, 00:36

The build of the AP4 Holden NZ Barina Rally Sport Team cars has started.
https://www.facebook.com/HoldenBarinaRallySport/

GravelBen

30th July 2016, 05:38

Hunt, Summerfield and Baddock all contesting Catlins Rally next weekend in various older cars. Will be interesting to see how they compare to the locals, great flowing roads and no pace notes.

leighton323

30th July 2016, 05:51

Hunt, Summerfield and Baddock all contesting Catlins Rally next weekend in various older cars. Will be interesting to see how they compare to the locals, great flowing roads and no pace notes.
Will you be there taking photos?

GravelBen

30th July 2016, 07:27

Yip, planning to pop out for the day. Wonder if I'll get snowed on again like last year!

Zeakiwi

30th July 2016, 13:14

Some interesting entries for the Catlins Coast. A test rally for some of the Silver Fern Rally entrants. Tony Quinn in a Toyota 86, Bruce Herbert, Bert Murray, Brent Rawstron, Deb Kibble.etc.
http://www.chrissport.kiwi/event.php?db=catlins2016

GravelBen

30th July 2016, 13:49

It is a very strong field - Stew Reid and Brian Stokes probably have the same idea regarding a test before Silver Fern. Quinn had Andrew Graves (multiple previous winner) in the silly seat last year for local knowledge but doesn't have that help this time.

The guys with local knowledge are usually hard to beat - Ayson, Verdoner and Mills all know those roads very well and it shows, often running top-5 overall pace in classic 2wd cars. Rhys Gardner another fast local farmer and previous winner, would probably be the benchmark but he isn't running this year after an electrical fire at Canterbury.

Zeakiwi

6th August 2016, 04:21

Wintry NZ rally conditions.
http://tinyurl.com/ju7xad4

https://www.facebook.com/fastexposure/ (Catlins pics from fast exposure)

GravelBen

6th August 2016, 06:18

Wintery NZ rally conditions.
http://tinyurl.com/ju7xad4

I skipped SS1 because SS2 was half an hour closer, maybe I shouldn't have!

Anyway, here is a quick teaser photo of Hunt hustling that sweet-sounding H6 Impreza through SS2:

1052

GravelBen

7th August 2016, 11:14

Good little highlights video here: https://www.facebook.com/wwrally/videos/1791667191055880/

GravelBen

9th August 2016, 08:43

My Catlins album online now here: https://flic.kr/s/aHskEB2QdJ

A few samples...

https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8779/28788772521_d4ea2490a4_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KRXZ5V)DSC_7903 (https://flic.kr/p/KRXZ5V) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8622/28788863991_8d164e2354_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KRYsgZ)DSC_8345 (https://flic.kr/p/KRYsgZ) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8866/28759853702_ba661eb1fd_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KPpLwA)DSC_7914 (https://flic.kr/p/KPpLwA) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8800/28788813891_443211b6fb_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KRYcoc)DSC_8092 (https://flic.kr/p/KRYcoc) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8875/28864550675_267032642b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KYEnhP)DSC_8460 (https://flic.kr/p/KYEnhP) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8386/28759977362_95cda11953_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KPqphE)DSC_8531 (https://flic.kr/p/KPqphE) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8827/28249758663_a4a236a483_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/K3kp3x)DSC_8765 (https://flic.kr/p/K3kp3x) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8621/28247497054_e625dbd7e1_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/K38NKh)DSC_8842 (https://flic.kr/p/K38NKh) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

Zeakiwi

15th August 2016, 06:10

Last 2016 NZRC round this weekend. Hopefully there will be no weather related disruptions.
http://allaboutwhitianga.co.nz/mercury-bay-events-guide/sports-recreational/mahindra-goldrush-rally-of-new-zealand
Coromandel - traction, cornering speed, good lines between the corners, mechanical reliability, engine torque -accurate co-driving.

Munkvy

22nd August 2016, 00:52

Was a good weekend (I was co-driving in the back end of the field), weather was quite changeable with rain in half the stages, but often on in bits of the stage. Quite a few broken cars, not too many crashed cars fortunately. Tire wear for us was a bit high, even with the wet!

GravelBen

28th August 2016, 08:48

Good drive by Derek Ayson at Border Ranges Rally in Australia this weekend - borrowing Ed Mulligan's Mk2 Escort he finished 4th overall, 1st 2wd and first classic. Maybe that helps make up for an Aussie winning at Coromandel!

almostracing

19th September 2016, 22:23

A video of some funny reactions from some passengers at a sponsors ride day.
https://www.facebook.com/358636160829964/videos/1423751104318459/

Maui J.

20th September 2016, 00:32

Any news of what new AP4 cars may show up in 2017.
On the coverage of Coromandel there was talk of 3 new types of makes, in addition to the Holden Barinas.

Dave Strong...Honda?
Clint Cunningham has his Lancer Proto for sale, so that may mean something new.
Sloan Cox? Time for a new car?
Holder...something new?

GravelBen

20th September 2016, 01:53

leighton323

20th September 2016, 02:29

Rumour is that Cunningham is fed up with the cost/result ratio he's had the last couple of years and either giving up on rallying or going to a classic instead. Just a rumour though, I don't know any real facts.

Heard there is an aussie bringing a Fiesta over for NZRC, can't remember if its AP4 spec or something else.

Think Holder would need to find a lot more budget/sponsorship for an AP4, it sounded like he was struggling to pull funds together for events this season.

I'd still like to see the Masons back out there again for a real benchmark too.
Talks of Dylan Turner being in a new car next year.. apparently watch this space.

Also, Holder's evo 8 is heading back to Tony Gosling and the Stadium Motorsport team.

Tony Gosling has acquired the ex Hawkeswood Mazda 2 that was first built in 2013. Gosling's to drive the car in Spring Rally in the Geraldine Forest this weekend. I think it will be a tough challenge driving in the forest in what seems like a challenging yet fast car to drive.

Potentially I think we may see Holder in that car in 2017.

GravelBen

20th September 2016, 12:39

I heard mutterings of a Peugeot AP4, wonder if that is Turner? I remember him being pretty quick when he used to compete in NZRC more regularly.

Thats a good point re Gosling buying the Mazda as well, I had forgotten about that. You could be right about him letting Holder drive it.

Maui J.

21st September 2016, 08:27

That rings a bell about Turner in AP4 next year...I think I remember that from the coverage of Coromandel.

Holder in the Mazda AP4 would be great.

The Fiesta will be a Proto out of Poland with Evo 9 running gear.
Here's the article about it.
http://www.rallysportmag.com.au/home/nz/10596-new-fiesta-proto-to-contest-nz-rally-championship.

Great to see the NZ Championship growing.

Zeakiwi

24th September 2016, 03:56

South Canterbury Spring Rally today. Galbraith (EVO8) in lead with one stage to go.

Zeakiwi

5th October 2016, 10:45

Paddon and Hyundai NZ - Pinnacle Programme - young driver talent quest. (My pick would be Matt Summerfield - 23 years old - does the online media, has driven a variety of cars - speedway, diesel, V8 Cordia)
http://pinnacleprogramme.co.nz/

leighton323

5th October 2016, 11:05

Maui J.

6th October 2016, 10:34

Great concept by Hayden, Hyundai NZ and Pinnacle.
Agree, Matt Summerfield would be a worthy recipient.
I would like to see Alex Kelsey and Ari Pettigrew in the mix as well.

GravelBen

7th October 2016, 07:50

Another vote for Summerfield here, talented driver. I think with a bit more funding/support to help avoid the mechanical problems he'd be a very strong contender for the championship. Mike Young might pop back from APRC for a chance too I guess, I don't know if we've ever really seen him up against the NZRC regulars in a similar car?

Young Ari Pettigrew certainly one to watch in future too I agree, saw him at Catlins and he was driving extremely well.

GravelBen

7th October 2016, 23:24

Toyota AP4 entry for NZRC announced this morning:

https://www.facebook.com/newzealandrallychampionship/photos/a.401786219852259.93792.188676991163184/1265814773449395/?type=3&theater

Mk2 RS2000

12th October 2016, 20:49

Great concept by Hayden, Hyundai NZ and Pinnacle.
Agree, Matt Summerfield would be a worthy recipient.
I would like to see Alex Kelsey and Ari Pettigrew in the mix as well.

Suggest that one throw Job Quantock into the mix too.

Zeakiwi

12th October 2016, 23:38

Targa NZ (main event) is under way for another year. 4 days this year but still over 600 km of stage distance. Using FB for vids etc. drone.
http://tinyurl.com/j3yavut

https://tinyurl.com/jvf8d5x

http://tinyurl.com/j7fk6ny Inkster explains broadly adjustments to car - tarmac evo

http://www.velocitynews.co.nz/news.php?id=874 (Inkster wins Targa '16, in Evo tarmac spec)

(MCA Hammerhead won WTAC, Sydney - nz Kelford cams in the billet engine)

Maui J.

25th October 2016, 11:44

10 different manufacturers for NZRC 2017. That is impressive. It seemed like we just had 20 years of Subaru vs Mitsubishi, it was getting a bit tedious.

http://www.rallysportmag.com.au/home/nz/10876-2017-nzrz-to-feature-10-makes-for-round-one

Hyundai (Paddon & Pinnacle Winner)
Mazda (Hawkeswood + maybe one other in older Mazda 2)
Skoda (Inkster)
Holden (Murph & Marston)
Toyota (Chambers)
Suzuki (Gilmour)
Peugeot (Turner)??
Ford (Dalton) In Proto version of Fiesta
Subaru (Hunt)
Mitsubishi

The new AP4 category seems to be a winning formula.

There seems to be an opportunity here for someone to come out of left field and do something completely against the status quo and make an AP4 car from a Chinese manufacturer. The Chery J1 is the car that comes to mind. Andrew Simms is the Chery importer here in NZ I believe. Sure not a huge seller here...yet. But that's what we all thought about Hyundai 20 years ago, and Japanese Cars 45 years ago. Also can you imagine the buzz that it would generate back in China if it started getting results. In the right hands there's no reason why not. Chris West start talking with your old sponsor.

Zeakiwi

27th November 2016, 01:37

Silver Fern Rally 2016 (NZ Classic event)- 27th December to 4th December, 2016 for those who like the scream of the BDG, BDA etc
http://www.chrissport.co.nz/event.php?db=silverfern2016

http://app.rallysafe.com.au/Event/PublicView/2388

http://www.silverfernrally.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Silver-Fern-Rally-Itinerary-2.pdf

https://youtu.be/DhN04AgbuUQ Day one; preview of route.

https://youtu.be/GD4vx1T7vEg (typical toyota taking part; complete with Bilstein shocks)

http://tinyurl.com/h3639u3

smokingjoe

28th November 2016, 10:30

managed to get to first 4 stages of Silver Fern today. very dusty but thankfully quite a breeze to move it on. will endeavour to upload some photos...... if I got any decent ones !!

KiwiWRCfan

28th November 2016, 11:47

Silver Fern day 1 highlights video https://www.facebook.com/SilverFernRally/videos/1803105946567692/

smokingjoe

28th November 2016, 23:44

just seen the Porsche come into Timaru. didn't look too badly damaged, but after seeing the exscurion off-road, there maybe a lot more than just panels ??

Zeakiwi

29th November 2016, 04:20

Day 2 - Tysoe rolls
http://tinyurl.com/jq7jj67

GravelBen

30th November 2016, 09:22

I thought we'd see Ayson make a move up the order as the rally moved further south... next couple of days he is on home turf.

KiwiWRCfan

30th November 2016, 10:34

I have created a twitter moment that will be updated daily with selection of photos, key news etc. This link will take you there https://twitter.com/i/moments/803884491890536448

Zeakiwi

3rd December 2016, 23:18

Day 5 was probably the best action. Catlins.
https://www.facebook.com/SilverFernRally/videos/1805208686357418/

GravelBen

4th December 2016, 07:56

I got out to a few stages Thursday/Friday, good fun. Currently trying to upload photos but Flickr is having issues.

Zeakiwi

4th December 2016, 08:17

Classic section won by Welsh Wizard M Evans, Reid second, Dippie third.
Challenge section - Ayson,

https://www.facebook.com/SilverFernRally/videos/1806046999606920/ (final day including KC breaking ball joint.)

GravelBen

5th December 2016, 07:48

Pretty comfortable overall win for Ayson in the end, but I bet he was glad he had built a big lead when he had to limp through a couple of stages on the last day!

GravelBen

8th December 2016, 11:28

Finally uploaded my Silver Fern photos after some problems with flickr.

Album: https://flic.kr/s/aHskQfpugV

https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/258/31132977530_4a2682cd11_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Pr7DyE)DSC_9942 (https://flic.kr/p/Pr7DyE) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/563/31466399376_23acd755dc_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PWzwgb)DSC_0182 (https://flic.kr/p/PWzwgb) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5518/31388806171_93e1681418_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PPHQvi)DSC_0408 (https://flic.kr/p/PPHQvi) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/gravelben/), on Flickr

KiwiWRCfan

10th December 2016, 19:11

22 year old Job Quantock has won the Hyundai NZ Young Driver Shootout after competing in just his first year of rally.
Hayden Paddon said there were a few reasons why Quantock stood out.
“Job is definitely the most inexperienced of the crews in the final, but he showed a lot of potential in all aspects – from the fitness sessions to how he conducted himself throughout the two days. He fits the whole philosophy of the Hyundai brand to foster new talent. I think Job can be a great ambassador for rallying, a great ambassador for Hyundai and he has a lot of potential to learn and improve. We believe he can be a New Zealand champion and potentially compete well internationally.”
Further information at
http://alittlebitsideways.co.nz/quantock-selected-winner-hyundai-nz-young-driver-scholarship/