About the NIRS
Launched December 2022
The North Island Rally Series (NIRS) launched on December 1, 2022, reigniting the spark of grassroots rallying in the North Island after an 8-year hiatus formerly known as the Top Half and Central Region Rally Series.
OUR MISSION
Collaboration, transparency, and timely communication. We engage and consult, treating our competitors like customers, round organizers as key clients, and sponsors as business partners.
Our approach is inclusive, innovative, and open to fresh ideas, all while upholding excellence with respect, courtesy, and professionalism. Operated by dedicated volunteers on a not-for-profit basis, we take immense pride in the passion and mahi our community has invested into the series, driving its success and spirit forward.
OUR ETHOS
By reinstating these critical steps, we are reigniting the sport’s growth and creating a strong foundation for future champions. This revitalized approach is attracting new competitors, officials, and volunteers while re-establishing a vital training ground to nurture talent and sustain the sport’s legacy.
Marty Roestenburg Chairman, Rob Scott Treasurer, David Hedge Promotional, Colin Smith.
2023
The Breakout year for the NIRS…
The NIRS launched a six-round series, driving rally participation to new heights. From a solitary Clubman’s Rally in 2022, we surged to four in 2023 and introduced Rally Sprint Events, calculated on cumulative run times, to bolster the total rounds in the series. This season was filled with adrenaline-pumping action and incredible milestones.
The introduction of events like the Taranaki Tarmac Rally, Maramarua Rally, and Bay of Plenty brought a wave of fresh excitement to the rally calendar. Each event presented unique challenges: Taranaki’s unforgiving tarmac, Maramarua’s forest grit, and Bay of Plenty’s mixed-surface stages demanded skill, adaptability, and determination from drivers and co-drivers alike.
The spirit of camaraderie within the NIRS community was truly remarkable. Sister car clubs collaborated and pooled resources to overcome challenges and support one another’s events. The success of these rallies is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and the steadfast support of our sponsors and participants.
2023 was more than just a collection of rallies—it was a year of growth, innovation, and unity. With each event, we built stronger foundations, forged unforgettable memories, and proved that with determination and teamwork, the NIRS can achieve remarkable things.
2024
Nothing short of electrifying…
Against the odds, we successfully delivered a five-round series that showcased over 100 drivers and co-drivers, launched a groundbreaking novice and rookie mentoring initiative, and brought back the Taranaki Tarmac Rally, Waitomo Rally, and a standout favourite was the new format Dargaville Rally. The novice and rookie mentoring initiative provided invaluable guidance and coaching to new competitors, ensuring a bright future for the sport.
This year saw the return of these iconic events, each contributing its unique flavour to the rally calendar. The Taranaki Tarmac Rally pushed drivers to their limits with unforgiving asphalt twists and turns, while the gravel stages in Bay of Plenty demanded a perfect blend of precision and courage. Dargaville’s mixed-surface stages provided a true test of versatility and skill, challenging even the most experienced competitors. The season ended with a fast and dusty finish with a return to the Waitomo district.
The NIRS team continued innovating, promoting the double permit model to accommodate Clubman’s and national permit rally enthusiasts. This strategic move broadened our reach, attracting a diverse range of competitors and elevating each event into a thrilling spectacle for fans and participants alike.
Our community’s hard work and dedication shone through in the seamless execution of each event. From meticulous planning and coordination to the enthusiastic participation of drivers, co-drivers, and volunteers, 2024 was a testament to what we can achieve when united by a shared passion for rallying.
As we look ahead to 2025, the excitement is palpable. New challenges and opportunities are on the horizon, promising to push the North Island Rally Series to even greater heights.
In short, 2024 wasn’t just a season, it was a statement. The NIRS has returned stronger and more vibrant than ever, powered by a community ready to conquer whatever the road may bring.
2025
A season defined by dominance…
The Hawkeswood Mining North Island Rally Series began with real intensity on Northland’s infamous Ruarangi Road, where Quentin Palmer immediately set the standard. From the opening round on gravel to the demanding Taranaki tarmac, Palmer’s pace was unmatched and his early wins shaped the rhythm of the season.
July’s Taranaki Tarmac Rally brought wild weather and serious commitment from competitors, while August’s Coromandel round added the challenge of joining the national field. Todd Bawden was the only driver to interrupt Palmer’s winning run, and rising talents like William Menzies, Carlin Leong and Andy Martin kept the pressure high throughout the mid season.
The return to Waitomo offered a pure clubman style test with no pace notes and plenty of unpredictability. Palmer rose to the challenge once again while mechanical dramas for several front runners ensured the championship remained close heading into the final event.
The Battery Town Rally Bay of Plenty closed the season in emphatic fashion. Palmer secured the Drivers title with another commanding win and Corinne Watson claimed the Codrivers championship through consistent and determined performances. Ben Huband and Menzies completed the Drivers podium in what proved to be one of the most competitive seasons yet.
In summary, 2025 showcased an exciting blend of proven contenders and new talent and delivered a hard fought championship that sets the scene for an even more impressive year to come.
2026
BE A PART OF THE Kaupapa….
This year, we have a really exciting lineup of events, and for the first time, our competitors get to experience a genuine rally series, which is a dream come true for the NIRS!
Starting with the North Waikato Rally in late March, competitors will get to experience 3 ex-WRC stages around the rolling countryside of Te Akau and Naike. The traditional Waitomo Rally will be hosted mid-May by our 2025 ‘Rally of the Year’ organisers – Hamilton Car Club. The Taranaki Tarmac Rally will take place in late June on some of the toughest tarmac roads! The Rally of Taumarunui returns in early August after 26 years, the classic Rally Bay of Plenty will be held in late October, and the calendar concludes with the highly anticipated Maramarua Forest Rally and End of Season Prize Giving.
This is a once in a lifetime experience! Thanks to the support of our wonderful sponsors and partners, we have some amazing prizes, discounts, and services on offer for all of our entrants.
Thanks to Paddon Racing Group / Winmax Brake Pads, our entrants will receive:
– $200 discount voucher towards brake pads per round (X6)
– 15% discount code for Winmax Brake Pads
– Mentoring for the Top Rookie of the Year
Thanks to our other generous supporters, the NIRS can offer competitors:
– Discounted entry fees (subject to the Round organiser’s confirmation)
– Drive of the Day Trophy, awarded after each Round
– End of Season Prize Giving, trophies and awards for our competitors
– Live timing and results from our Events, c/o ChrisSport NZ
– Press Releases before/after each Round, c/o Benjamin Carrell
– Images and Social Media coverage, c/o Chelsea Media Co.
– NIRS Planning and mentoring opportunities
– Relevant content and regulations via the NIRS website
Not to mention, you become a part of the NIRS community, striving towards a bright future with the best interests of NZ Rallying in mind!
