Leading by example

New Zealand motorsport’s heyday is often depicted by dusty black and white images of five- deep crowds lunging over fences at Pukekohe or Baypark.

What made these periods great were visits to our humble shores by the world’s stars including those from the likes of Formula 1 ; often led here by New Zealand’s own greats — the Amons, Hulmes and McLarens being obvious examples.

It’s been a long time since that was a reality here. A1GP was a flash in the pan, Supercars are taken for granted, and the closest F1 gets is over the ditch. Really, the sole shining beacon has been Rally New Zealand.

It’s been five long years since it was held here as part of the World Rally Championship, but that looks set to change. And at the forefront Hayden Paddon of the charge is Hayden Paddon.

The steps that “the kid from Geraldine” has taken to try to boost the profile of rallying in this country cannot be underestimated.

His new Paddon’s video series ( available on the

website) profiles some of New Zealand’s most incredible scenery, and his availability to the media ( spearheaded by his partner Katie) ensures rallying always makes the 6pm news.

And, like those Kiwi motorsport heroes of old, he still comes back to race on home soil. He’s just signed on to race at the Polaris NZ1000 ( read more on page 33). It’s one of three Kiwi events he’ll take on this year.

Bringing the world back to our doorstep, much like our heroes of yesteryear did. ABOUT US Editor Tony Verdon Editor at Large Liz Dobson Contributors Cameron Officer, Jacqui Madelin, David Kavermann, Matthew Hansen, Bob McMurray, Donna McIntyre, Cover design Jennifer Adams Cover photo Ted Baghurst Driven advertising Todd Fuller ( 021 986027)