Exciting New Route for International Rally of Whangārei
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Whangārei, New Zealand – [13/05/2025] – Rally New Zealand, the organizers of International Rally of Whangārei are thrilled be working on an exciting new route for the 2025 edition of the event.
Known for its fast gravel roads, spectacular scenery, and passionate motorsport fans, the rally promises an even greater challenge for competitors while offering a fresh experience for spectators in 2025.
The updated route will introduce new competitive stages in Northland’s stunning landscape, with a mix of tight technical sections and fast, flowing roads that have become a hallmark of the event. Several iconic stages have been modified, and completely new sections have been added to test drivers’ skill and endurance.
“We’re excited to be working on these new stages, which we believe will add another layer of excitement to the event,” said Simon Bell, Event Director of the International Rally of Whangārei. “The changes reflect our commitment to continue with the changes implemented in 2024, keeping the rally fresh with new ideas while maintaining the high standards that competitors and fans have come to expect from our team.”
The International Rally of Whangārei, a key fixture on the national rally calendar, attracts top drivers from around New Zealand and overseas, including competitors from the New Zealand Rally Championship (NZRC).
The event team are excited to work with the Whangārei District Council for the 18th year, with amazing support from Mayor Vince Cocurullo and his Whangārei events team.
For 2025 we are also looking forward to working with the team at Kaipara District Council and the residents, to bring the NZRC teams to their areas. We have started consultation with the roading team for their initial feedback.
Fans will have a variety of viewing options along the new route, including prime spectator areas that provide unparalleled views of the high-speed action, with proceeds donated back to local community groups. Yearly the event donates over $10,000 back to these groups.
The rally will once again kick off with the start in Whangārei city, setting the tone for an adrenaline-pumping weekend of motorsport. Shakedown will be held on Pohe Island, and the official start in downtown Whangārei.
The action proper will come alive on Saturday morning, as the teams head over to Dargaville and a loop of 6 new and exciting stages. The stage layout is similar to the recently successful 2024 Dargaville Rally with a couple of extra roads to come in and out of Dargaville.
A series of remote services will be in central Dargaville, after which the teams will return to Whangārei via two runs over Pohe Island Super Stage, then off to the overnight Parc Ferme.
Sunday will another new challenge the teams. The second day includes many new and old stages like Ruarangi Road, while also including a 30km stage over a very iconic road called “Bulls”. The loop of 4 stages will be run twice, with the official finish back at the Pohe Island Service Park mid-afternoon Sunday.
With a fresh course and a continued commitment to delivering world-class rally action from the team @ Rally New Zealand, the 2025 International Rally of Whangārei is set to be one of the most exciting editions yet. More details, including maps and schedules, will be released in the coming months.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Simon Bell
e: simon@sultants.co.nz
p: 021856277
About the International Rally of Whangārei
The International Rally of Whangārei is one of New Zealand’s premier gravel rally events, attracting top talent from the New Zealand Rally Championship, and international competitors. Held annually in the Whangārei & Northland areas, the rally is renowned for its fast gravel stages, stunning scenery, and enthusiastic fanbase. For more information, visit https://www.rallyWhangārei.co.nz/
*Img Copyright Geoff Ridder
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