CATCH ALL THE ACTION
Here are Drivesouth’s top viewing tips for this afternoon and tomorrow.
For those who are up with the latest in digital play, local fans Becky Ladbrook and Cory Saxton have prepared an interactive spectator guide, which you can download at www.otagorally.com/home/rallyinformation/spectatorinformation
Special Stage 6 — Circle Hill
(this afternoon)
The intersection of Waihola Hill and South Boundary Rds is the prime viewing point on this 28km stage that combines open country with sections of forest. Be there by 12.15pm for a 12.35pm start.
Special Stage 7 — Kuri Bush
(this afternoon)
Head up Christie’s Gully Rd (near Henley) to reach a midstage viewing point on a test that is internationally renowned for its challenging mix of highspeed crests and fast corners. Be there by 1.15pm for a 1.35pm start.
Anzac Ave Superspecial
(this afternoon)
Get to Dunedin’s wharf area beside the Anzac Ave overbridge in good time for a 3pm start to this short tarmac special stage that concludes today’s action. The format has changed from previous years — each car will complete a double thereandback sprint loop featuring a hairpin bend under the overbridge on Ward St. The only spectator viewing is from the overbridge and there’s a $10 admission charge for this stage, under12s are free.
Special Stage 11 — Stoneburn (Palmerston)
(tomorrow morning)
Drive in on Taieri Peak Rd from Palmerston to the intersection with Hughes Rd to reach a midstage viewing point on this tricky 14km test. This is the first stage of the day, so it’s one for the early risers: be there by 8.20am for an 8.40am stage start.
Special Stage 16 — Bald Hill (Middlemarch)
(tomorrow afternoon)
Drive in on Moonlight Rd from Middlemarch to reach the viewing point at the intersection of Bald Hill Rd. Spectacular rally action in the middle of spectacular Otago schist scenery makes this one of the most popular spectator points in the rally. Be there by 12.50pm for a 1.15pm stage start.
Rally finish
(tomorrow afternoon)
Everyone loves a winner, and success will be celebrated in style with the traditional champagne spray out the front of Dunedin Railway Station for the top three placegetters in the various components of the event. The first cars will start arriving in front of the railway station around 2.45pm, and the ceremonial finish is scheduled to begin about 3pm.