New Zealand’s rally scene is vibrant, competitive, and constantly evolving, with talented drivers pushing the boundaries of speed and control on some of the most challenging courses in the world. From dense forests to coastal trails, rally racing in New Zealand demands precision, endurance, and grit, making it an arena for both seasoned professionals and ambitious newcomers.
Ben Hunt – The Consistent Champion
Few names command as much respect in the New Zealand rally world as Ben Hunt. Known for his calculated driving style and remarkable consistency, Hunt has solidified himself as one of the most successful drivers in recent history. With several New Zealand Rally Championships under his belt, he has a reputation for conquering challenging terrains with ease and precision.
Hunt’s ability to navigate tight forest tracks and unpredictable gravel roads with minimal error makes him a driver to watch. His experience allows him to read the terrain and adapt to unexpected challenges, from rain-slicked surfaces to sharp turns on narrow trails. Fans of rally racing know that when Hunt is on the course, they can expect an exciting and expertly controlled race.
Jack Hawkeswood – The Rising Star
Jack Hawkeswood is rapidly building a name for himself as one of New Zealand’s most promising young drivers. At just 23 years old, Hawkeswood has already shown remarkable talent, with a fearless and aggressive driving style that has quickly earned him a following. Known for his adaptability and calmness under pressure, Hawkeswood isn’t afraid to push his car to the limit, especially when the road conditions are challenging.
Hawkeswood has taken on veteran drivers and proven he has what it takes to compete at the highest level. His impressive performances in recent stages, including his skillful handling of narrow gravel paths and his speed on open road sections, have fans and analysts alike excited about his potential.
Emma Gilmour – The Trailblazer
Emma Gilmour has long been an influential figure in New Zealand rally racing. As one of the top female drivers in the sport, she’s not only paved the way for more women to participate in rally racing but has also built a reputation as a highly skilled and tenacious competitor. Gilmour’s strength lies in her technical driving skills, especially in complex, multi-terrain stages that require quick thinking and precise handling.
Her years of experience and deep knowledge of New Zealand’s rally routes give her an edge, especially in the more technical stages where strategy is essential. Known for her steady pace and smart approach to the sport, Gilmour consistently performs well against her competitors, delivering reliable results and engaging fans with her masterful driving.
Raana Horan – The Aggressive Challenger
Raana Horan is a driver known for his fearless approach and high-speed driving style. Horan’s approach to rally racing can be described as bold, as he’s never shy about taking risks on difficult courses. His aggressive driving style has brought him victories and some near misses, but one thing is certain: Horan’s presence on the track is always exciting for spectators.
Horan’s strength is his ability to accelerate quickly and maneuver through tight spaces, a skill that comes in handy on New Zealand’s narrow trails and dense forest stages. He’s unafraid to push boundaries, making him a top driver to watch. His all-or-nothing mentality makes him a crowd favorite, as fans know they’re in for an intense race whenever Horan is on the course.
Shannon Chambers – The Technical Expert
Shannon Chambers may not have the years of experience that some of his competitors boast, but he makes up for it with an impressive technical understanding of rally mechanics. Chambers has a background in automotive engineering, giving him a unique perspective on car dynamics, which he skillfully applies to his racing. His technical knowledge helps him make precise adjustments mid-race, allowing him to maintain control on tricky terrains.
Chambers has an analytical approach to rally racing, meticulously planning his strategies based on the specific challenges of each stage. He’s known for his smooth transitions and efficient driving, rarely making mistakes even under pressure.
Kayne Barrie – The Wild Card
Kayne Barrie is the definition of a “wild card” in the New Zealand rally scene. Known for his unconventional tactics and surprising maneuvers, Barrie’s racing style is unpredictable yet undeniably effective. He brings a mix of experience and instinct to the sport, often catching competitors off-guard with his bold moves and ability to handle tricky terrain at impressive speeds.
Barrie’s adaptability and willingness to take unexpected routes make him an exciting driver to watch, especially on stages with mixed terrains where quick decisions can make or break a driver’s performance. His strategy might not always follow the conventional playbook, but that’s precisely what makes him a fan favorite.
The Future of New Zealand Rally Racing
These drivers represent a blend of experience, talent, and ambition, showcasing why New Zealand’s rally scene remains one of the most exciting in the world. With a mix of seasoned champions, rising stars, and drivers willing to take risks, each race in the New Zealand Rally Championship promises thrilling moments and fierce competition.
As the season progresses, fans can look forward to watching these top drivers continue to push the limits of what’s possible on New Zealand’s challenging rally courses. Whether it’s Ben Hunt’s consistent mastery, Jack Hawkes’ fearless spirit, or Emma Gilmour’s technical expertise, each driver brings something unique to the track.
