With 147 entries finalized just before the entry deadline, this historic rally will feature the largest field for a New Zealand gravel rally since the 1980s.
The event will showcase a remarkable lineup of international stars along with prominent domestic motorsport figures.
Roger Oakley, the event spokesman, expressed the organizers’ excitement about the competitors’ enthusiasm. “We are absolutely delighted to be part of celebrating our 50th anniversary,” Oakley stated.
He added, “It will be a massive motorsport event and, equally important, a reunion of friendships formed over many years in the sport. This is going to be a fantastic event for Dunedin and New Zealand.”
The current roster includes 37 international teams from 11 countries, marking the largest international participation in a domestic rally since Rally New Zealand in 2008.
The Classic 2WD category alone has 45 entries, featuring past winners and world-class competitors such as Kris Meeke, Mads Ostberg, Pasi Hagstrom, Deane Buist, and Derek Ayson.
The Classic 4WD division is rapidly expanding, achieving a new milestone with 21 entries ready to take on the gravel tracks.
In the New Zealand Rally Championship, approximately 40 cars are distributed across various classes, including the Classics.
The championship promises intense competition among Jack Hawkeswood, brothers Robbie and Jack Stokes, and Dylan Thomson, who will drive the winning Skoda used by Ben Hunt last year.
Adding more excitement to the national field, two-time Dakar Rally victor Toby Price will drive a Toyota GR Yaris.
Ari Pettigrew and Andy Martin will compete in GT3 Porsches, adding power to the national championship stages.
The regional competition is also robust, with the Asia Pacific Rally Championship component seeing an increase in entries from last year, featuring eight teams from five countries.
A substantial 50-car Allcomers field, excluding those already entered in the national championship, further enhances the entry list.
The rally will also see the return of competitors who participated in the inaugural 1976 event.
John Keast, driving an Escort BDA, and Brian Budd will hit the road 50 years after their first race.
The Otago Rally expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment for its support through the Events Boost Fund and to the City of Dunedin for its Premier Event support.
sam.henderson@thestar.co.nz
