Rally New Zealand 2012

[J4MIE]

Rally Guide 1 has been released.

Competitors - Rally New Zealand (http://www.rallynz.org.nz/competitors)

I was desperately hoping to be going this year but am having to give it a miss :bigcry:
I cling to the hope that it will go back to running every year but guess it's unlikely to do so anytime soon :(

[6789]

Awesome! I'll be there from the Sunday before, its an awesome rally J4MIE, you will have to do it one day :)

If anyone finds out where the PWRC testing for Monday is can they please let me know

[J4MIE]

Awesome! I'll be there from the Sunday before, its an awesome rally J4MIE, you will have to do it one day :)

It's top of my list... Can't make it this year it's just a wee bit soon for my finances. I will be at the Silver Fern in November though, WRC will have to wait until 2014 :(

[WRCfan]

Will be going. Looking forward to seeing the rally again. Alternating years are a pain in the a** but can't be helped. Roll on rally time!

[Camelopard]

I've booked my flights, but haven't organised anything else yet.

[6789]

Will be going. Looking forward to seeing the rally again. Alternating years are a pain in the a** but can't be helped. Roll on rally time!
I would rather NZ every year or Aus and NZ 2 weeks apart :D

[cosmicpanda]

That's an interesting route. Shame they've not yet published an itinerary so we can see the distance. I also think it's a shame that we won't be seeing the Whaanga Coast on the final day - it's provided some drama in the past few years. I'm curious to see how well the stages near Warkworth turn out.

Girl's High School and Mititai haven't been run in the WRC for a while - juwra has Mititai last being used in 2002, and if they've used Girl's High School Rd before it was under a different name or much further back in time. The international rally of Whangarei has used it in the past, and from what I saw of it when I spectated there it's a good stage. I recall that the spot we arrived at wasn't so good, but after some hiking through the paddocks and falling down a small cliff (yikes) we found a nice hairpin with a good view. Mititai has some fantastic spectator spots.

[rallyfiend]

That's an interesting route. Shame they've not yet published an itinerary so we can see the distance. I also think it's a shame that we won't be seeing the Whaanga Coast on the final day - it's provided some drama in the past few years. I'm curious to see how well the stages near Warkworth turn out.



Total Distance: 1542.18km No. of Stages: 22
Stage Distance: 420.64km Stage Surface: Tarmac & Gravel
Longest Stage: SS10/14 Mititai 32.88km Shortest Stage: SS18/19 Auckland Domain 3.00km

[6789]

Hopefully Shakedown isn't at the Auckland Domain

[Rally Hokkaido]

Hopefully Shakedown isn't at the Auckland Domain
yes, using a mickey mouse tarmac stage as qualifying stage for a (mostly) gravel rally would be ......ah...unusual

[6789]

yes, using a mickey mouse tarmac stage as qualifying stage for a (mostly) gravel rally would be ......ah...unusual

Especially when its the qualifying stage now as well. Did Japan use that stadium stage as Shakedown? I can't quite remember

[Rally Hokkaido]

Especially when its the qualifying stage now as well. Did Japan use that stadium stage as Shakedown? I can't quite remember Is there an echo on here???..................Yes, 2010 Rally Japan used the stadium SSS for shakedown

[6789]

Is there an echo on here???..................Yes, 2010 Rally Japan used the stadium SSS for shakedown

Sorry misread your post, hopefully that didn't upset you too much

[Rally Hokkaido]

Sorry misread your post, hopefully that didn't upset you too much
upset? moi? Slipping on ice and falling on to a jack last Friday, now that's something that did get me a little peeved...lol

[tfp]

I would rather NZ every year or Aus and NZ 2 weeks apart :D

I cant understand why they dont do this - the teams travel half way around the world to compete in NZ one year and Aus the next year....They might aswel have 2 competitions while they are there :D


upset? moi? Slipping on ice and falling on to a jack last Friday, now that's something that did get me a little peeved...lol

Ah but what kind of jack? A trolley jack? Or a Jack black? Or maybe a bottle of Jack daniels? For your sake, I hope it was the latter :D ;)

[spiderem]

Hi Guys,
I am planning to go this year from Australia, its not such a long journey.
Do you know if the organisation will release a spectator guide with the access to the special and the best part to look like in GB?
Or is it just anarchia as per the Monte and everybody goes everywhere?
Im planning to rent a camper van for few days and just travel around auckland and see as many stages as possible... the thing is, I need to motivate the miss and that will be very difficult!
Cheers

[pino]

It's top of my list... Can't make it this year it's just a wee bit soon for my finances. I will be at the Silver Fern in November though, WRC will have to wait until 2014 :(

On top of my list too...2014 then ;)

[Plan9]

Does anyone know if Ken will bring the gymkhana world tour to nz? it was a success in oz.

[anstis]

Hi Guys,
I am planning to go this year from Australia, its not such a long journey.
Do you know if the organisation will release a spectator guide with the access to the special and the best part to look like in GB?
Or is it just anarchia as per the Monte and everybody goes everywhere?
Im planning to rent a camper van for few days and just travel around auckland and see as many stages as possible... the thing is, I need to motivate the miss and that will be very difficult!
Cheers

Normally they'll release a programme with maps/itinerary etc well in advance. In the past they have classified spectator points as being either 'prime spectator points' or just 'spectator points'. in my opinion, the word prime does not always mean it's the place to go for the best viewing, it usually means it's the easiest to access. Generally I think the best places are the lesser spectator points or the ones that are a bit more out of the way on the map and then you can often walk down the stage for a bit to find a good spot. But I don't think you can go wrong - these are NZ gravel roads, every corner is choice :-)

[sollitt]

Not necessarily. One of the problems with our fantastic NZ gravel roads is they generally start on long straights and finish on long straights. And often the mid stage junctions similarly are in the middle of long straights. So if a bit of sideways is your thing, these spots are not where you want to be.

[6789]

Hi Guys,
I am planning to go this year from Australia, its not such a long journey.
Do you know if the organisation will release a spectator guide with the access to the special and the best part to look like in GB?
Or is it just anarchia as per the Monte and everybody goes everywhere?
Im planning to rent a camper van for few days and just travel around auckland and see as many stages as possible... the thing is, I need to motivate the miss and that will be very difficult!
Cheers

With a camper van you may be able to get to the middle of the Whaange Coast stage by staying overnight - its quite amazing right on the coast line. Here is a couple vids from the stage in 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIbCPi9ZkhA&feature=channel

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLU0cVWqIfw&feature=channel

[spiderem]

With a camper van you may be able to get to the middle of the Whaange Coast stage by staying overnight - its quite amazing right on the coast line. Here is a couple vids from the stage in 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIbCPi9ZkhA&feature=channel

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLU0cVWqIfw&feature=channel

Good video, thanks for that!
This spot really look amazing, with the possibility to watch the car for a decent length, its good...
Do you think its possible to see 2 stages per day (4 passes)? or its too tricky to move from one stage to the other considering the time allowed?
I did GB in 2010, and considering the people on the stage it was just impossible the move between the stages during the day... As was hoping that less people would be NZ making it more easy to move...
Cheers for info!
Are you targeting to go?

[6789]

Good video, thanks for that!
This spot really look amazing, with the possibility to watch the car for a decent length, its good...
Do you think its possible to see 2 stages per day (4 passes)? or its too tricky to move from one stage to the other considering the time allowed?
I did GB in 2010, and considering the people on the stage it was just impossible the move between the stages during the day... As was hoping that less people would be NZ making it more easy to move...
Cheers for info!
Are you targeting to go?
You might be able to by going to general spectator points - I'm not really sure, you would have to check where they are and stuff.

Yeah its an awesome stage, that spot there has not road access other than the stage so you would be locked on for the whole day.

[anstis]

Good video, thanks for that!
This spot really look amazing, with the possibility to watch the car for a decent length, its good...
Do you think its possible to see 2 stages per day (4 passes)? or its too tricky to move from one stage to the other considering the time allowed?
I did GB in 2010, and considering the people on the stage it was just impossible the move between the stages during the day... As was hoping that less people would be NZ making it more easy to move...
Cheers for info!
Are you targeting to go?

Last time for the northland leg with some careful planning we saw 5 different stages (watched just the WRC + S2000 cars - not the full feild) plus made it back to auckland for the latter half of the SSS. (traffic held us up making it back in time). Slightly different route this time so I'm not sure if the same is possible, but I'd say it's usually possible to see more than 2 passes of 2 stages - but depends of how much moving around you want to do.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Year before, well when last time NZ was on, out of let's say 8stages in 1 day I went to 6, left after the WRCars each time so it was fine! Minimum was 4 stages! :)

[raybak]

When we went in 2004, we managed about 4 stages a day, staying only for the WRC cars for the first 3 and then staying for the whole field for the 4th. We did it on the cheap as well, staying in caravan parks, although when in Raglan the caravan park was right next to the service park :)

We actually spent a lot of time planning out our stage viewing before the event, my friend Sophia did a great job of this. We ended up with a heap of other spectators tagging along with us. Made it a great trip. So good that I went back the next year competing :)

Ray

[spiderem]

When we went in 2004, we managed about 4 stages a day, staying only for the WRC cars for the first 3 and then staying for the whole field for the 4th. We did it on the cheap as well, staying in caravan parks, although when in Raglan the caravan park was right next to the service park :)

We actually spent a lot of time planning out our stage viewing before the event, my friend Sophia did a great job of this. We ended up with a heap of other spectators tagging along with us. Made it a great trip. So good that I went back the next year competing :)

Ray

Cheers guys... It looks like with a bit of planning, there is a good opportunity to see a lot compare to european rallies... I think I will start to plan my journey until the spectator guide is released...
Can you camp everywhere or do you have to stay in a camping overnight?

[raybak]

Cheers guys... It looks like with a bit of planning, there is a good opportunity to see a lot compare to european rallies... I think I will start to plan my journey until the spectator guide is released...
Can you camp everywhere or do you have to stay in a camping overnight?

There are some quite cheap campgrounds around the Northern stages. We found one at Pahi, the place was still in the 1950's but it was cheap and clean.

[6789]

Looks like VW won't be entering their Skodas in NZ - MaxRally | News | Aotearoa not pictured for VW (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/aotearoa_not_pictured_for_vw/)

I also read that Mads Ostberg isn't going to NZ, could be a small entry list. Is Craig Breen going down to NZ?

[sollitt]

According to SWRC video on WRC.com Breen not going to NZ.

VW's position a little odd unless they're a bit nervous about their chances against the kiwi boy on home turf.

[6789]

According to SWRC video on WRC.com Breen not going to NZ.

VW's position a little odd unless they're a bit nervous about their chances against the kiwi boy on home turf.

Yeah I thought Breen would skip NZ since he did Monte, cheers for that. I was really looking forward to seeing Paddon vs Ogier in NZ, would have been a good comparison of speed. NZ not being a permanent round may be a factor for VWs decision as well, Australia will probably be returning next year.

[Bigdiggerman]

They're sending drivers to do recce though I understand.

[GigiGalliNo1]

It is expensive to fly a crew over.... and even if ONE round is in the REGION of Asia!! Makes sense!

Hi Rally fans,

Our New Zealand World Rally Team along with driver, Hayden Paddon are offering rally fans exclusive team tours to both Rally New Zealand and Rally Spain. Our team tours not only take in all the sights and scenes of the fastest cars and drivers in the world, but also as part of our team go behind the scenes of NZWRT throughout the event. Our tour packages include:

- 4 star accommodation – 5 nights
- 2 catered team meals within team hospitality
- Some other meals
- Tour bus with guides
- 10 stages planned for spectating throughout weekend
- Rally passes
- Team merchandise
- Daily meetings with Hayden for progress report
- Special guest prior to event
- NZWRT after party

We also have a gold package available that includes 5 star accommodation, helicopter spectating and a chance for a ride alongside Hayden in the official shakedown in his Skoda S2000.

Prices are for our New Zealand tour (20-25 June)
- Standard tour $1,299 NZD (or $1,030 AUD or €800)
- Gold tour $2,899 NZD (or $2,300 AUD or €1,800)
- Above prices based on twin share – single add $100 NZD

Limited seats are bookings must be made before April 15.

Tour packages for Rally Spain start from $1,399 NZD (or $1,100 AUD or €860) excluding flights. Seats must be booked by end of July.

For further information or bookings contact [email:1ez4klgz]Katie@paddonrallysport.co.nz[/email:1ez4klgz].

[6789]

Not long until this rally now :) Does anyone have any news? I'm wondering if they're running PWRC testing on the Monday like they did in Aus last year.

[Plan9]

According to SWRC video on WRC.com Breen not going to NZ.

VW's position a little odd unless they're a bit nervous about their chances against the kiwi boy on home turf.


Yes VW is not going as NZ will not be a round next year (whether or not is again in the future ever is a different matter). I was wondering if Proton were going to let PG and Alister have a crack. The did some of the Rally NZ stages for APRC earlier this year.

[GigiGalliNo1]

My trip booked to NZ! Hotel only cost me Australian $250 right in the middle of the city, about two blocks from Service park.

[Munkvy]

According to the sup regs its Sunday 17th that Priority 3 testing is done. Doesn't specify where though.

And then there is testing/shakedown on Thursday for all classes, with different roads being used depending on who you are. Map is:

http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2012/05/shakedown-map.pdf


Not long until this rally now :) Does anyone have any news? I'm wondering if they're running PWRC testing on the Monday like they did in Aus last year.

I will be competing in the Possum Bourne field which runs behind the FIA event on Saturday 23rd.

[janvanvurpa]

According to the sup regs its Sunday 17th that Priority 3 testing is done. Doesn't specify where though.

And then there is testing/shakedown on Thursday for all classes, with different roads being used depending on who you are. Map is:

http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2012/05/shakedown-map.pdf



I will be competing in the Possum Bourne field which runs behind the FIA event on Saturday 23rd.

Oi! Whatcher running in? Howse we supposed to cheer ya on if we don't even know your name? In a nice car like a rwd Escort that gets sideways----LIKE GAWD INTENDED---or some poxy modern thing 8( ?

[6789]

According to the sup regs its Sunday 17th that Priority 3 testing is done. Doesn't specify where though.

And then there is testing/shakedown on Thursday for all classes, with different roads being used depending on who you are. Map is:

http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2012/05/shakedown-map.pdf



I will be competing in the Possum Bourne field which runs behind the FIA event on Saturday 23rd.
Thanks for the most helpful reply - see you out on the stages :)

[Munkvy]

Oi! Whatcher running in? Howse we supposed to cheer ya on if we don't even know your name? In a nice car like a rwd Escort that gets sideways----LIKE GAWD INTENDED---or some poxy modern thing 8( ?

Sorry, I am in a poxy modern thing. A silver Subaru WRX wagon. Should be easy to spot, as there isn't too many wagons rallying... But we only run on the 2nd day of the rally, rather than all 3 days.

[tfp]

Sorry, I am in a poxy modern thing. A silver Subaru WRX wagon. Should be easy to spot, as there isn't too many wagons rallying... But we only run on the 2nd day of the rally, rather than all 3 days.

Nothing wrong with that, theres plenty of room to carry spare wheels and tyres if you get a puncture, and anyway, the wagon is cheaper to insure :D

[WRCfan]

Looking forward to the rally. Will be there with pickled onions ready to go!

[6789]

Looking forward to the rally. Will be there with pickled onions ready to go!

Hope JML can go for the victory again :D

[janvanvurpa]

Sorry, I am in a poxy modern thing. A silver Subaru WRX wagon. Should be easy to spot, as there isn't too many wagons rallying... But we only run on the 2nd day of the rally, rather than all 3 days.

Well good luck, sounds like some fun...(if the crank doesn't break or the rods bend)...



(just joking with ya, OK..Over here some of the Subie guys are such hard bitten Subie fans first that they go on a rampage if you don't gush about how much you love their Blue Subie...Good luck.)

[Munkvy]

janvanvurpa - I have mostly had issues with overheating, bearings and rings with Subarus. I blew a large number of motors in my last Subaru rally car, until I rolled it and wrote it off. I have now switched to a Nissan GTR to do tarmac events, so this is a one off driving a Subaru and I sure have no one eyed love for it! I will just be happy if we can get through a rally for a change, as me and the owner built it in his shed together.

[rp]

Jari Ketomaa (Ford Fiesta RS WRC) will compete in New Zealand...

[6789]

Jari Ketomaa (Ford Fiesta RS WRC) will compete in New Zealand...

Awesome news :D

Looks like we could end up with 10 to 13 WRC cars, much like 2010 in NZ

[GigiGalliNo1]

Made a mistake... first two days of rally, stages are 1.5 and 2hr drives away from Auckland... I booked all accom in Auckland so Nice and Early drives for me in the morning to get to stages! Could have booked in Raglan and Whaengrei or something.... oh well! Me not reading the maps properly!

[6789]

Yep will be an early morning on Friday, Whaanga coast should be worth it but!

[Maui J.]

Awesome news :D

Looks like we could end up with 10 to 13 WRC cars, much like 2010 in NZ

Yep, numbers are slowly growing which is good.

Loeb, Mikko, JML, Petter, Ketomaa, Sordo, Prodrive Mini#2, Tanak?, Novikov?, Neuville, Nobre, Araujo.

Also good that NZ is a SWRC and PWRC round.

Have to make the most of it this year, it could be the last WRC event here.

[speedhog]

GigiGallino1.. Where in Auckland did you book your accomodation.? you might find that it will be easier for you actually being based out of auckland then, having to drive for 4 hours on friday night to a new motel/hotel..

To all that have been to RNZ before and driven through Auckland.... Be aware that the south bound lanes after the harbour bridge have been changed. And there is a Toll Road/tunnel after Orewa and before Puhoi.

And you will not have time to make it back to the Domain from Puhoi.. that is not a challenge! plus its a waste of time and gas.

Both of the Shakedown stages have been used in previous years, typically Korokomiko Hill road, is a fast flowing road that tighten's near the end to produce some beautiful photo's.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Speedhog. I'm about 2 blocks away from the service park. Towards the port/docks for boats.... I didn't look at the MAPS properly before booking my hotel. I could have stayed one night in Raglan thus making it easier for the stages out there and another day a city out of Auckland as the stages are else where...

I quickly google mapped the two cities, Raglan and something starting with a Wh... are 1.5 and 2 hours away from the centre of Auckland... driving at 4am in the morning shouldn't be a problem will it? I have a new client so I'm not sure which stages I'm heading to/no plans yet. It'll be quality over quantity with them with coverage of Rally NZ. :)

[speedhog]

Thats not too bad then.. easy access to the motorway north and south.
Leaving at 4am will be way easier than after 630am.. on the friday try to avoid getting back to auckland before 7pm... I know it sounds strange, but if you like traffic then go ahead..

Whangarei,(Fang-ga-ray, as most aussies call it..lol) is about 2.5 hours north of auckland. Personally, I would be looking for Warkworth/Wellsford, as that is more central for the route Up north. Short hike back from Whangarei, and Puhoi stages are on the way back to Auckland.

http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2012/05/rally-nz-2012-day-2-map.pdf

[Tom206wrc]

At what date the entrylist will be published :confused:

[sillyseat]

At what date the entrylist will be published :confused:
Page 11
http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2012/05/2012-rnz-rally-guide-2-pages-1-35-1.pdf

[6789]

14 WRCs and 5 S2000's - bring it on! Be interesting to see Stohl

[jbmarcus21]

Google Earth Map Rally New Zealand is out Programme du Rallye Wrc de Nouvelle-Zélande 2012 (http://planetemarcus.free.fr/nouvellezelande12.htm)

[Adler]

14 WRCs and 5 S2000's - bring it on! Be interesting to see Stohl
nice to see Manfred back in a WRC, but most likely he will drive the rallye as teamboss for Oliveira, try to optimize the setup for Oliveira in NORF, anyway i am afraid he is far too long away from WRC to challenge the top-privateers

[padWRC]

14 WRCs and 5 S2000's - bring it on! Be interesting to see Stohl

1 Sebastian Loeb F Citroën Total WRT
2 Mikko Hirvonen Fin Citroën Total WRT
3 Jari Matti Latvala Fin FORD BP WRT
4 Peter Solberg No FORD BP WRT
5 Ott Tanak Ee M-Sport Ford WRT
6 Evgeny Novikov Ru ALM Russia Team
7 T.Neuville Be Qatar WRTeam
9 Manfred Stohl Aut BWRT Stohl Racing
11 Henning Solberg No Fast Go WRT?
12 A Araujo P WRC Mini Team Portugal
14 Paulo Nobre Bra WRC Mini Team Portugal
16 Jari Ketomaa Fin
37 Daniel Sordo Es Prodrive WRC Team
43 Kenny Block Usa Monster Ford Rally Team

[Toyoda]

Does anyone know if the crews will be doing any testing before hand?
What are peoples suggestions for good spots, it would seem that the last day it will be only possible to see one stage run twice unless it is possible to do a bush bash walk between stages...

[6789]

Does anyone know if the crews will be doing any testing before hand?
What are peoples suggestions for good spots, it would seem that the last day it will be only possible to see one stage run twice unless it is possible to do a bush bash walk between stages...

Priority three testing is on the Sunday - its in the Rally Guide 2 pg 8 http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2012/05/2012-rnz-rally-guide-2-pages-1-35-1.pdf

[ik1911]

Is Rally New Zealand 2012, 500th rally in World Rally Championship history ? ( from 1973 )

[Toyoda]

Does anyone know if the testing during the times below are for the wrc cars or the local cars? chur
Sunday, June 17th
Time of Closure: 08.30–15.00hrs
Name of Road(s): Matahura Road and Hoult Road

[6789]

It's priority three testing. So s2000's and group N cars. Should say on the entry list

[Plan9]

Does anyone know if the Protons used by Alister and PG are the same spec as the ones in APRC? Will they continue with DMack's on this event?

[rallyfiend]

Does anyone know if the Protons used by Alister and PG are the same spec as the ones in APRC? Will they continue with DMack's on this event?

I hope they run on the Michelins. Would be good to see them in more a fair fight against the other S2000 cars.

[Adler]

new livery for the one way outing in new zealand for Manfred Stohl.

2963

[Plan9]

I hope they run on the Michelins. Would be good to see them in more a fair fight against the other S2000 cars.

thinking the same thing. The Dmack's may slow them down a bit. It's hard to judge them in APRC as the Skoda's have MRF tyres. If Proton does not use Michelin I think Hayden and other Michelin car will have it all to themselves.

[Adler]

Stohl doubts he can hold fastest s2000´s pace, but he is happy to be back on the stages of his favourite rallye in WRC.

Rallye-WM: Neuseeland - 2012 - Rallye - motorline.cc (http://www.motorline.cc/rallye/index.php/Rallye-WM-Neuseeland---Ein-Gespr%C3%A4ch-mit-Manfred-Stohl---Teil-1/article=170340)

[jarredw]

First posting on here, Hi everyone!

Seems like a decade has past since the WRC was last here in NZ, first time we're seeing the new WRcars.

[N.O.T]

NZ should be in the calendar every year... No other rally can compare when it comes to rally roads, my favorite rally by far when it comes to roads and you have to be a true rally driver to do well here.

Cannot wait.

[Josti]

NZ should be in the calendar every year... No other rally can compare when it comes to rally roads, my favorite rally by far when it comes to roads and you have to be a true rally driver to do well here.

Cannot wait.

I agree, I much prefer it over Australia.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Living in Australia and been to a few many Rally Australia's in Perth and then Coffs Harbour last year..... Rally NZ I think is much much better! I don't know why, but it's great for the spectators! But this year it's going to be freezing! 1-2-3degrees in morning.... about 15 degrees in the afternoon. I hope it DOESN'T RAIN! grrrrrrr I fly out there in one week!

[N.O.T]

I agree, I much prefer it over Australia.

Australia was nice when it was located in perth... now its meh...

[A FONDO]

Depending on stages, I liked a lot last year's Australia.

[WRCfan]

The weather in morning is cold although the forecast for rally weekend is not good. Hope things come right. Photos need some blue sky!!

[rallyfiend]

So, when do we get the now regular news that Henning isn't coming?

Or is he this time?

[jarredw]

So, when do we get the now regular news that Henning isn't coming?

Or is he this time?

He's on the entry list issued by RNZ..so I assume he will make an appearance?
Entry List - Rally New Zealand (http://www.rallynz.org.nz/spectator-info/entry-list)

[rallyfiend]

He's on the entry list issued by RNZ..so I assume he will make an appearance?
Entry List - Rally New Zealand (http://www.rallynz.org.nz/spectator-info/entry-list)

He was in Greece too.

Argentina as well if I remember correctly.

[jarredw]

Interesting...wouldn't he be facing the £60,000 fine for not attending?

I notice Cook is auctioning her trophies so that she can find budget to start, to avoid the fine.

[rallyfiend]

Interesting...wouldn't he be facing the £60,000 fine for not attending?

I notice Cook is auctioning her trophies so that she can find budget to start, to avoid the fine.

Henning isn't in a registered team. He's just a regular privateer.

[EightGear]

Henning won't be there unfortunately. That's at least what Autosport Magazine was reporting yesterday

[6789]

Hope everyone has a great rally week, I'll try and post updates and photos pending on internet availability / mobile phone coverage. If anyone has a website and wants some photos from the event afterwards, send me a PM. Go JML!!!

[Plan9]

Why couldn't Prodrive find a gentleman for the 52 car?

[6789]

$

[A FONDO]

No rich gentlemen in the region :)

[Adler]

Stohl announced Ilka Minor as co-driver allready, so no Henning again i guess :/

Rallye-WM: Neuseeland - 2012 - Rallye - motorline.cc (http://www.motorline.cc/rallye/index.php/Rallye-WM-Neuseeland---WM-Comeback-des-Power-Duos/article=170358)

[jarredw]

Went down to the service park today (Saturday) in central Auckland. Things slowly kicking into gear, most teams containers have arrived from Argentina, the usual...spotted various team members arriving to their hotels as well.


Took some photos:
[attachment=1:1mbjs921]7377745180_87a37a6499_n.jpg[/attachment:1mbjs921]

[jarredw]

Went down to the service park today (Saturday) in central Auckland. Things slowly kicking into gear, most teams containers have arrived from Argentina, the usual...spotted various team members arriving to their hotels as well.


Took some photos:
2965

[jarredw]

Went down to the service park today (Saturday) in central Auckland. Things slowly kicking into gear, most teams containers have arrived from Argentina, the usual...spotted various team members arriving to their hotels as well.

I have photos, but can someone please explain how to add photos to this site???? Painful process if you're doing it for the first time...anything that I edit to their dimensions comes out distorted.

Meanwhile I have them uploaded in Flickr
Rally New Zealand 2012 - a set on Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80485566@N02/sets/72157630140642856/)

[Livewireshock]

Can hardly wait to get there tomorrow afternoon, flying out of the Gold Coast. Have been watching the Service Park comings and goings via webcam on Silo 7.

Silo 7 Webcam (http://www.queens-wharf.co.nz/Queens-Wharf/Gallery/Webcam.aspx)

Not perfectly aligned but you can see much of what is happening on centre left.

[jarredw]

Can hardly wait to get there tomorrow afternoon, flying out of the Gold Coast. Have been watching the Service Park comings and goings via webcam on Silo 7.

Silo 7 Webcam (http://www.queens-wharf.co.nz/Queens-Wharf/Gallery/Webcam.aspx)

Not perfectly aligned but you can see much of what is happening on centre left.


Hopefully weather remains the same for next weekend, today was a perfect day...pretty cold, but clear blue skies!

[Livewireshock]

So far it looks like the Saturday will be good but with showers on Friday and Sunday, so how much that disrupts things, we will have to wait and see.

[jarredw]

Knowing our weather it will keep us guessing haha.

[6789]

IS the service park in the same location as in 2010?

[jarredw]

IS the service park in the same location as in 2010?

No, it has moved just a few blocks further along the waterfront to a newly developed area called Wynyard Quarter, the WRC service is by the Viaduct Events Centre.

Here's a link:
http://www.rallynz.org.nz/media/2012/05/auckland-viaduct-layout-for-brnz-sml.pdf

[6789]

Cheers :)

[GigiGalliNo1]

See you guys there??? I'm in on Wednesday! We should do a forum meet!

[A FONDO]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/538605_369033219817617_357893104_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/206196_407085352668294_1776197984_n.jpg

[Plan9]

Good atmosphere at the opening day. Got a good look at the Prodrive/MI service area. Many spectators so I hope we will continue to see this for the rest of the event.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Photos Plan9?

[jarredw]

Great day today, Mini had their cars out and Manfred Stohl had the only Ford out of transport.

Precious moments unloading the three citroens off the truck!

I got some good photos, I think prodrive/mini have the best backdrop!

SlowSon, how do you include photos in your post?

[A FONDO]

Like everywhere else, with the [IMG] tag. It even has a quick button for it, look at the controls just above the field you type in.

[6789]

I bet Plan 9 was in love with the Mini area :P I'm just about to leave Sydney, hope Ford can get a win this week

[GigiGalliNo1]

I hate you guys. I knew I should have gone earlier!

[6789]

Just checked out the sevice park, looking good downt here as they are putting it all together. Very very wind and cold today, so pack some jackets and wet weather gear I think.

Couple photos - Mini area looks good, they're still building the Ford/Citroen area

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5280/7390415558_81e678243c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390415558/)
IMG_0285 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390415558/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/7390408260_48569e30ef_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390408260/)
IMG_0275 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390408260/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7089/7390400866_b4aeac42b3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390400866/)
IMG_0250 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390400866/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7390448920_fdffcf3d19_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390448920/)
IMG_0294 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7390448920/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

[N.O.T]

Any info on the weather during the event ?

[sollitt]

Rain.

[Maui J.]

Rain during the week.
Friday forecast for the Raglan area says fine with light winds. Saturday forecast for the Northland stages say dry & northwesterlies.
Sunday is showers.

So even though is wet and cold now it may turn out nice for the event proper... but who knows in this country.
There's a saying in Auckland, "If you don't like the weather, wait 20 minutes". This part of the world can have 4 seasons in one day.

[Toyoda]

http://www.metservice.com (http://www.metservice.com/) Hamilton on Friday= Sunny, Whangarei Saturday = Sunny, Auckland Sunday= Average....

Good day yesterday at service park, Solbergs son set a pretty good time around the scooter course....Paddon and PG Anderson looked pretty fast in there testing

[Gherid_lacksGPS]

http://www.metservice.com (http://www.metservice.com/) Hamilton on Friday= Sunny, Whangarei Saturday = Sunny, Auckland Sunday= Average....

Good day yesterday at service park, Solbergs son set a pretty good time around the scooter course....Paddon and PG Anderson looked pretty fast in there testing

Whoa, wait, what? lol

Thanks for the photo's, peeps. Service Park on pier/docks = awesome.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Just to mention that organizers will be placing WiFi hot spots at stages!

[WRCfan]

The Wifi is going to be at the prime spectator spots I am guessing Matt?

[Plan9]

I bet Plan 9 was in love with the Mini area :P I'm just about to leave Sydney, hope Ford can get a win this week

Yes it was a significant moment alright! I was actually allowed to walk into their service area while they were setting up. Very interesting. I was curious if you-know-who was going to be there as part of the gravel crew but I was not able to get that question answered. I have some photos if you guys want to look at them but someone has got many very similar 1s already up here. I got some amazing close-ups of the cars being assembled though.

Interestingly, Theirry will be using Nasser's livery down here. Pretty cool but no Red Bull logos.

I was at the service area today but it was not so fun as the weather turned pretty rough and could get no good new pics. I'll be attending the Thursday and Saturday parts of the event so I will have more to post later.

[Plan9]

http://www.metservice.com (http://www.metservice.com/) Hamilton on Friday= Sunny, Whangarei Saturday = Sunny, Auckland Sunday= Average....

Good day yesterday at service park, Solbergs son set a pretty good time around the scooter course....Paddon and PG Anderson looked pretty fast in there testing

On the topic of the s2000 guys, where is their service park based? The top WRC guys dominate the Wynyard quarter warf area...

[Dingardo]

PWRC/SWRC should be at the tip of the wharf that the WRC guys are on (i.e. looking out from the harbour, to the right of the ford tents)

[GigiGalliNo1]

Hayden Paddon has details on Rally New Zealand being broadcast LIVE on NZ TV! Need to find details...

[MJW]

. I was curious if you-know-who was going to be there as part of the gravel crew but I was not able to get that question answered. .
No gravel crews anymore except for tarmac events.

[tolis]

Hayden Paddon has details on Rally New Zealand being broadcast LIVE on NZ TV! Need to find details...
Times are: Saturday SKY Sport 3, 8:30-11:30am and 2pm-4pm and Sunday SKY Sport 1, 9am-2pm.

[Andre Oliveira]

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/598409_10151828603835597_223230434_n.jpg

[Back-N-Black]

I give up, Who's the guy on the left?

[dimviii]

Araujo

[N.O.T]

time schedule for europe

Programme du Rallye Wrc de Nouvelle-Zélande 2012 (http://planetemarcus.free.fr/nouvellezelande12.htm)

France is CET so for Greece/Finland ects add 1 hour for the UK subtract 1 hour

some looong nights ahead.

[dimviii]

http://sport.turbomagazine.be/photos/news/10050_A_20120617202724.jpg

Turbo Magazine :: Neuville avec Hirvonen et Latvala (http://sport.turbomagazine.be/news_FR_10050_Neuville_avec_Hirvonen_et_Latvala.ht ml)

Citroën WRC 2012 - Rally NZ - Hirvonen and Neuville try Auckland SkyJump - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-10VJ4EF0k&feature=player_embedded)
Oleksowich tests photos
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.396567327047092.78750.107863082584186&type=1

[WRCfan]

The opening ceremony parachute display team?

[Gherid_lacksGPS]

JML, are you REALLY sure you want to be doing this with the luck of Ford so far, and yours in particular?.....

[rallyfiend]

No gravel crews anymore except for tarmac events.

The top guys have crews however that drive through the stages between the recce and the competition part to check the roads / notes.

Who says anyone was interested in cutting costs....?

[bluuford]

The top guys have crews however that drive through the stages between the recce and the competition part to check the roads / notes.

Who says anyone was interested in cutting costs....?

Gravel crew is only on the tarmac rallies

[Plan9]

What I meant was will Kris be in NZ assisting Dani during the shakedown etc?

[rallyfiend]

Gravel crew is only on the tarmac rallies

No, they have other guys too. The top guys will have guys driving the stages throughout Thursday checking the notes they have done during recce. Not during the competition part like happens on tarmac events.

[Plan9]

Paddon's service area has a bigger tent than Proton :D

[6789]

A few more photos from Tuesday - Somewhat better weather today

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5349/7400031940_ddb677ca60_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7400031940/)
IMG_0420 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7400031940/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5120/7400027128_21dd485164_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7400027128/)
IMG_0414 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7400027128/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7228/7400042034_ac3705f376_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7400042034/)
IMG_0423 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7400042034/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

Still are not allowed into the Ford and Citroen areas properly yet and that may not be until Thursday..

[noel157]

What I meant was will Kris be in NZ assisting Dani during the shakedown etc?


No.

[6789]

Managed to get a tour of the service park today - Citroen again looking super professional. Bring on the rally!! :)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/7404936114_6691ed1966_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404936114/)
IMG_0486 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404936114/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5452/7404929570_0270333087_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404929570/)
IMG_0503 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404929570/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr


http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5451/7404920404_56fbd721a3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404920404/)
IMG_0479 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404920404/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8162/7404913130_96f93147ca_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404913130/)
IMG_0468 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/80601714@N02/7404913130/) by JamesHunter6789 (http://www.flickr.com/people/80601714@N02/), on Flickr

[GigiGalliNo1]

The service park is a bit silly. Only place that makes sense is the MINI. Looks good with city back drop!

In the middle of the building will be a Fanzone which is good, Skoda, Ford, Subaru and Citroen cars are in there with other official stands... tomorrow early start for me as I'm out at qualifying and shakedown!

[GigiGalliNo1]

http://MattJelonek.com/_MG_8410_WEB2.jpg

[Plan9]

How did you get into the other area 6789? I went their earlier today and a fat ginger told me to stick it and that it would open tomorrow?!

[EWC]

Greetings! My wife and I have traveled from the U.S. to spectate Rally New Zealand. This is the first WRC event we have been to, so I was wondering if anyone has any advice for us. Should we stick with one spectator spot all day, or try to hit multipe spots? Looking at the rally maps it seems there are some you could go between, but I don't have a good feel for the amount of time it takes getting around. Also, any suggestions on spots we should make sure not to miss? Should we try to go to one of the service parks, or is it best to stay in the forest.

We have good rain gear so we should be prepared for any weather. Would it be worth it to pick up a pair of folding camp chairs?

We fly to Auckland from Christchurch in the morning, after having spent the last week touring around the south island. The scenery has been amazing, and the locals have all been very friendly. Looking forward to experiencing the north island next!

Any advice appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[Rallyper]

Greetings! My wife and I have traveled from the U.S. to spectate Rally New Zealand. This is the first WRC event we have been to, so I was wondering if anyone has any advice for us. Should we stick with one spectator spot all day, or try to hit multipe spots? Looking at the rally maps it seems there are some you could go between, but I don't have a good feel for the amount of time it takes getting around. Also, any suggestions on spots we should make sure not to miss? Should we try to go to one of the service parks, or is it best to stay in the forest.

We have good rain gear so we should be prepared for any weather. Would it be worth it to pick up a pair of folding camp chairs?

We fly to Auckland from Christchurch in the morning, after having spent the last week touring around the south island. The scenery has been amazing, and the locals have all been very friendly. Looking forward to experiencing the north island next!

Any advice appreciated. Thanks in advance!

You should do what I did in Greece last month. Meet your friends from this forum on a spot and get some help from the NZ rallyfans or others attending. I´m sure you get help as much as I got from my greek friends in Loutraki!!

[bubbaontour]

Make sure you go to Raglan!! Im a surfer so im biased but its my favorite place in the whole WRC, And i have been a lot of places, ss2/ss6 whaanga coast is a must. ngarunui beach is well worth a look if your down there anyway too.

[dimviii]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/382387_479218182103878_1767491674_n.jpg

[tolis]

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/s480x480/179176_10150981226823641_140329481_n.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

What time is the Qualifying Stage ?

[jbmarcus21]

00h33 in France, 11.33pm for u

Programme du Rallye Wrc de Nouvelle-Zélande 2012 (http://planetemarcus.free.fr/nouvellezelande12.htm)

[bluuford]

Weather in NZ:

I must say that I am really bad in souther hemisphere weather. All cyclones and everything is spinning in opposite direction and I tend to forget it.. continiously!

However. It looks like qualifying stage has not experienced any rain in last 12 hours. Probability of rain is increasing and most probbly it will be run with soft tyres (risk of rain is increasing with every minute). Temperature is very low. Somewhere around +10 degrees.

Some rain is expected on Friday stages today but nothing significant for Friday itself. The wind decreases for Friday morning. So, maybe some fog, maybe some very light rain in the morning stages. Most probably the rain stays on the sea and stages stay dry. I quess they are still using hard tyres tomorrow.

We should live without rain until Saturday evening. Wind picks up and rain should arrive by the evening, probably after the stages. Temperature is still very low, still around +10 dgrees.

Sunday is too far away. Looks like heavy rain is coming on Sunday.

[tolis]

Free practice results available here: Free Practice (http://www.chrissport.co.nz/results/2012/rallynz/fpractice.htm)

[tolis]

Small video of Ketomaa : Inland Rd | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150909398918036)
Small video of Mikko: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150909437468036

[tolis]

QS Start list: http://www.chrissport.co.nz/results/2012/rallynz/qstartlist.htm
QS times live here in 6 minutes: RNZ - Qualifying (http://www.chrissport.co.nz/results/2012/rallynz/qresults.htm)

[tolis]

QS Results: http://hostthenpost.org/uploads/bc81fe2c7333edbb3d45637edf64f13c.jpg (http://hostthenpost.org/uploads/bc81fe2c7333edbb3d45637edf64f13c.jpg)

[Dingardo]

just got back from shakedown.. muddy but thankfully it didnt rain. certainly looked like a fun stage :)

now to have lunch and look through my pics

[Dingardo]

http://gallery.dingardo.geek.nz/zp-core/full-image.php?a=rally-new-zealand-2012%2Fshakedown&i=IMG_5791.JPG&q=90&wmk=copyright1

tried to embed as an image.. might come back to this once I have finished all of them :P

[Dingardo]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/598383_10150907814247986_236072865_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/s720x720/182149_10150907814682986_2080849922_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/545277_10150907815327986_139867178_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/s720x720/252392_10150907815077986_588917709_n.jpg

[cosmicpanda]

Greetings! My wife and I have traveled from the U.S. to spectate Rally New Zealand. This is the first WRC event we have been to, so I was wondering if anyone has any advice for us. Should we stick with one spectator spot all day, or try to hit multipe spots? Looking at the rally maps it seems there are some you could go between, but I don't have a good feel for the amount of time it takes getting around. Also, any suggestions on spots we should make sure not to miss? Should we try to go to one of the service parks, or is it best to stay in the forest.

We have good rain gear so we should be prepared for any weather. Would it be worth it to pick up a pair of folding camp chairs?

We fly to Auckland from Christchurch in the morning, after having spent the last week touring around the south island. The scenery has been amazing, and the locals have all been very friendly. Looking forward to experiencing the north island next!

Any advice appreciated. Thanks in advance!

I'd suggest moving around. On the Saturday and Sunday there are a good few hours between stages while the cars go to service, so staying in one spot might be boring. Allow a decent amount of time to get between places, as most of the roads around the stages will be windy, sometimes quite narrow, and unsealed. I can't give you more specific instructions than that without knowing what you've got in mind.

You can check out most of the stages on google maps. They've even got streetview! On Saturday I recommend the Mititai stage, particularly the intersection of Birch and Lusk roads (Prime B on the spectator map). Generally, the prime areas marked by the organisers are good. There are some interesting places on the Girls High School stage as well, but be prepared to walk about to find them.

And on that note - definitely try to walk around, but be prepared to cross a few fences. Wear clothes you don't mind snagging on barbed wire, and try to avoid electric fences. Folding chairs are your call. If you plan to move around a lot, they might be a pain to carry around. I'd recommend gumboots as being most essential.

[Maui J.]

Shakedown was good. The rain stayed away.
Road seemed to stay in good condition, even with 2 or 3 days of rain previous, and 39 passes of the WRC cars. Will be interesting to see what positions the drivers pick tonight. My prediction is that they will treat it as a dry rally.

Tanak was the best to watch, hanging it out on the corners.

At the service park, Loeb's car came in and the marshall yelled "Car coming, get out the way", so I stepped under an ezy-up that was placed on the side of the service area. Loeb drove straight through the open sides of the ezy-up missing the poles my centimetres and me by millimetres!!! Funny in hindsight.

First win for Dani and Mini hopefully.

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Latvala fastest! Great start.

[6789]

Latvala looking like a bowss, must say that Solberg looked quick as well. Hirvonen didn't look so quick, but his time was there. Has been a bit of rain this afternoon. Try and get some pics up later

[bluuford]

Shakedown results for the other crews:
ChrisSport (http://www.chrissport.co.nz/results/2012/rallynz/shakedown1.htm)

NB! They were runing different route, so you cannot compare the results!

[GigiGalliNo1]

JML picked 13th place to start day 1

[GigiGalliNo1]

Mikko just picked to run 1st on stage!

[GigiGalliNo1]

Solberg 2nd, Loeb 3rd and Thierry 12th

[GigiGalliNo1]

http://MattJelonek.com/_MG_8727_WEB.jpg

http://MattJelonek.com/_MG_8614_WEB.JPG

[bluuford]

Mikko just picked to run 1st on stage! Solberg 2nd, Loeb 3rd and Thierry 12th

Strange. I do not understand their decision. All kind of rain stopped around 2 hours ago on tomorrow stages. Start of stage 1 is at 08:28 that is around 14 hours after the end of rain. Sun raises at 07:34. Jari-Matti starts around 08:55 for the shortest stage and around 09:20 for the second stage (2 hours after the sunrise). Latest weather maps, that just came out, say that there will not be even a single raindrop for tomorrow. I just do not understand Citroen decision.. even not in the longer term. And Neuville starts behind Nobre. Tomorrow we will have two 32 km stages...

[AndyRAC]

How on earth can they think of dropping this round......The Best roads in the Championship!

[A FONDO]

Stohl faster than Block and Araujo straight out of the box :) and Al-Raji & local with Impreza faster than the protons :laugh:

[Adler]

strange decission of starting order picks for me, Stohl for example said that he is quite happy that he has at least 3 cars ahead of him for sweeping the roads after the qualifying.....in his opinion even if it rains to be first car is an disadvantage on the very special slippery gravel roads of new zealand!

Google Übersetzer (http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=de&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=de&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.motorline.cc%2Frallye%2Findex.p hp%2FRallye-WM-Neuseeland---Stra%25C3%259Fenfegen-w%25C3%25A4re-furchtbar-gewesen%2Farticle%3D170485&act=url)

But lets wait.....works teams are of course no fools at all ;)

[Maui J.]

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention.
During Shakedown while the rally cars were on their free runs, the odd family wagon taking the kids to school would drive past at about 40 km/h. It happened at least 3 times.

Hard to say if the organisers allowed this to let the local farmers' wife to drop the kids off, or they, the locals, just thought f*#@ it and drove throw the tape on their driveways. On at least one occasion as Mum and kids drove past, steering at the spectators on their usually quiet rural road, you could hear a WRC car in full throttle not far away.

Scary stuff, especially when Jari Matti's average speed was 120 km/h.
Interested to see what other's at shakedown thought.

[Adler]

The starting order for Stage 1

First Mikko Hirvonen
Second Petter Solberg
Third Sebastien Loeb
4th Ott Tänak
5th Dani Sordo
6th Jari Ketomaa
7th Evgeny Novikov
8th Manfred Stohl
9th Ken Block
10th Armindo Araujo
11th Paulo Nobre
12th Thierry Neuville
13th Jari-Matti Latvala

[Hartusvuori]

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention.
During Shakedown while the rally cars were on their free runs, the odd family wagon taking the kids to school would drive past at about 40 km/h. It happened at least 3 times.

Hard to say if the organisers allowed this to let the local farmers' wife to drop the kids off, or they, the locals, just thought f*#@ it and drove throw the tape on their driveways. On at least one occasion as Mum and kids drove past, steering at the spectators on their usually quiet rural road, you could hear a WRC car in full throttle not far away.

Scary stuff, especially when Jari Matti's average speed was 120 km/h.
Interested to see what other's at shakedown thought.

If there must be an escort during a motorsport event, there should be officials car there, hence called an escort, and to make sure the road is clear when competitors start. If not, scary stuff. And I think there shouldn't really be any such interuptions to a World Rally Championship events. For smaller, local or national, I understand it, but never like it.

[Humber]

They should use a bit of forestry road for the shakedown or another piece of road with no residences close by, definitely getting harder to find these days with so much sealed road close to Auckland.
Latvala is likely to be starting too low, how many cars is he likey to catch in some stages ?
Sordo has a good start position if conditions are as I would expect them to be.
Strange stuff can happen e.g coastal fog, fog in the valleys of the 'inland stages', sunstrike as the sun is low etc
Expect Loeb easily in lead with Sordo if the car is right, somewhere close.

[MR666]

10 hours of live rally NZ day 2 and 3 on NZ Sky Tv... can't wait for the weekend.

[MR666]

How on earth can they think of dropping this round......The Best roads in the Championship!

Latvala wins Rally NZ qualifier - 3 Sport - Video - 3 News (http://www.3news.co.nz/Latvala-wins-Rally-NZ-qualifier/tabid/317/articleID/258626/Default.aspx)

[Juha_Koo]

MTV3 reporting Louise Cook's ambitious three-year plan to become...nothing less than a world champion. :)

Google-kääntäjä (http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mtv3.fi%2Furheilu%2Fralli%2Fuut iset.shtml%2F2012%2F06%2F1569427%2Frallin-nuori-naiskuljettaja-haluan-maailmanmestariksi&act=url)

[Adler]

MTV3 reporting Louise Cook's ambitious three-year plan to become...nothing less than a world champion. :)

Google-kääntäjä (http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mtv3.fi%2Furheilu%2Fralli%2Fuut iset.shtml%2F2012%2F06%2F1569427%2Frallin-nuori-naiskuljettaja-haluan-maailmanmestariksi&act=url)

sometimes in the google translation there is more truth then in the original press release :) : for sure she wants a world champion.....I want a supermodel! :)

[Barreis]

Just like in motorsport, bring the money and you can have it. :D

[Tom206wrc]

MTV3 reporting Louise Cook's ambitious three-year plan to become...nothing less than a world champion. :)

Google-kääntäjä (http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=fi&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mtv3.fi%2Furheilu%2Fralli%2Fuut iset.shtml%2F2012%2F06%2F1569427%2Frallin-nuori-naiskuljettaja-haluan-maailmanmestariksi&act=url)


I wish her to succeed where a certain Matt Wilslow failed :p :

[MJW]

I wish her to succeed where a certain Matt Wilslow failed :p :
She wont finish a rally with a time within the same hour as Matthew. He pace is glacial.

[tolis]

Nobre's tribute to Gareth Roberts

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/182501_4130064728439_2019273650_n.jpg

It's funny to see Nicola Arena in both entry lists of Ypres and New Zealand. In the end, Arena will start in a Historic Rally in Italy! :D

[Gherid_lacksGPS]

Is there a stream of sky nz, or a channel on sopcast that anyone may know about?

[andyone]

im soo nervous... i hope Latvala doesn't get an issue on this one..

[rp]

Yes! Nokia´s WRC Live app is still working...

[dimviii]

Site officiel de Sébastien Loeb - Nouvelle Zelande 2012 (http://www.sebastienloeb.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=57&Itemid=103)

On the special qualification, I do the fourth time behind Latvala, Hirvonen and Solberg. Jari-Matti has chosen the first starting position and he chose from the last WRC or 13th. For my part, I preferred to lock onto those closest to me in the championship, so I'm going on the third position behind Mikko and Petter who chose to go ahead.

[dimviii]

http://rallynz.smugmug.com/Media/Brother-Rally-New-Zealand/i-F4xtMcd/0/M/MSRNZ12SDLoeb1web-M.jpghttp://rallynz.smugmug.com/Media/Brother-Rally-New-Zealand/i-zSsvFHD/0/M/HirvonenGR33737Web-M.jpghttp://rallynz.smugmug.com/Media/Brother-Rally-New-Zealand/i-zpzpDXB/0/M/MSRNZ12-SD-Latvalaweb-M.jpghttp://rallynz.smugmug.com/Media/Brother-Rally-New-Zealand/i-fqHXVNP/0/M/GR21182Web-M.jpg

Brother Rally New Zealand - rallynz's Photos (http://rallynz.smugmug.com/Media/Brother-Rally-New-Zealand/23687510_gqWBQd#!i=1918467722&k=vdbXMSp)

[tolis]

Are you ready? 20 minutes for SS1 to start!

[dimviii]

are we half hour before start of stage 1?


edit didn t saw Tolis post.

Any news about weather at first stages?

[makinen_fan]

about 10 min now, is wrc radio on? cannot hear it

[Juha_Koo]

I'm just going to "a bit early-midsummer" sauna when the first stage begins... Oh well. :)

[bluuford]

are we half hour before start of stage 1?


edit didn t saw Tolis post.

Any news about weather at first stages?
Weather looks nice. Sunny and around +10 degrees, some wind. No rain visible. Temperature should climb near to +15 today. Surface is still damp.
First 1.5 km is pure tarmac. It should be dry.

[pettersolberg29]

First split is in - Petter +1.8s to Mikko at Split 1

[makinen_fan]

what happens for PS, 2 splits and already down 7s

[pettersolberg29]

Solberg with issues? 7s down at Split 2?

[dimviii]

Weather looks nice. Sunny and around +10 degrees, some wind. No rain visible. Temperature should climb near to +15 today. Surface is still damp.
First 1.5 km is pure tarmac. It should be dry.

so we expect Jari to be faster at first dry stages.

[dimviii]

wrong tyre choice again seems..

[pettersolberg29]

Solberg and Sordo on hards - everyone else on softs

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Go Mikko! Storming start by Hirvonen.

[dimviii]

Solberg and Sordo on hards - everyone else on softs

maybe hards are better at next 32km stage...

[makinen_fan]

probably it will turn around, 30, 32 and 32 km to go... prob he can make up some time, though i doubt it. citroen rarely get it wrong on tyres

[Barreis]

Loeb will hardly make mistake.

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Maximum attack now Jari-Matti. Fastest on the route!

[makinen_fan]

jml slightly faster than mh. so road position strategy has no effect here

[dimviii]

pga is flying!

[dimviii]

petter loosing 11 sec at 3rd split of 32 km stage....

[Kielder]

pga is flying!

Faster than Sordo! :eek:

[A.F.F.]

When was the last time Finns had a double lead at NZ ??? Let's enjoy while it lasts ;)

[Barreis]

Can't understand Solberg, every rally some kind of mistake.

[makinen_fan]

Can't understand Solberg, every rally some kind of mistake.

trying desperately to win maybe??

[Barreis]

Maybe but he forgets that Loeb won't make stupid mistake.

[Gherid_lacksGPS]

PG looking great.

Do softs vs hards show any statistical affects regarding punctures?

[Mintexmemory]

Maybe but he forgets that Loeb won't make stupid mistake.
Not always impressed by Petter but lets see how the tyres hold up for the guys on softs

[dimviii]

PG looking great.

Do softs vs hards show any statistical affects regarding punctures?

no same carcass

[Kielder]

trying desperately to win maybe??

for the last seven years...

[Francis44]

Mikko goes really well in this rally.

[Barreis]

Sordo doesn't.

[makinen_fan]

ps already a minute down from mikko

[Kielder]

Problems for Sordo with the gear box (its selector). He also lost time with the hard-compound tyre.

[Rally Hokkaido]

Did we confirm that PG is using Dmack tyres?

[bretddog]

10-15 degrees, how they expected this to dry out? Complete mismanagement.. Malcolm's martingale strategies work as normal.

[pantealex]

Did we confirm that PG is using Dmack tyres?
Proton uses Michelin

[pantealex]

SS1 Ketomaa had right rear puncture

[Mintexmemory]

10-15 degrees, how they expected this to dry out? Complete mismanagement.. Malcolm's martingale strategies work as normal.
So you don't think this is Petter's call? Bad one it appears already.

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Mikko is flying. Nice time again.

[A FONDO]

SS1 Ketomaa had right rear puncture

what about ss2 then :D

[bretddog]

So you don't think this is Petter's call? Bad one it appears already.

Usually when Petter shut up completely he is angry at someone else..

Yes Petter has a risk prone mentality. Latvala too. The problem however in the team is not that, but the fact that also Malcolm has the same mentality. Making gambles, just because of the possibility of doing something different has a potential to pay off, instead of respecting data and statistics.

[N.O.T]

hmmm what happened in ss2 ?? Rain ?

[makinen_fan]

no, probably just more muddy than previous. sordo said its like rally gb

[N.O.T]

Good pace by PG...pity we did not have the official VW team here....it would be a nice comparison.

[Barreis]

Better for proton.

[bluuford]

no, probably just more muddy than previous. sordo said its like rally gb

final part of the stage is very twisty and in shade.. completely different to all reamining stages.

[N.O.T]

I think it is safe to say that Ketomaa should stick to village events from now on...

[Josti]

I agree, I don't know if its the dmack tyres, but he just isn't showing enough.

[Mintexmemory]

Just what is the point of Louise Cook? Answers on a postcard to MSA ......

[N.O.T]

Just what is the point of Louise Cook? Answers on a postcard to MSA ......

no point at all...but she doesn't do any harm also.

[Gherid_lacksGPS]

whoa, issues for loeb?!
Edit: NVM, looks to be solid, showed almost +2:00 for a period of time, crazy....

[Gard]

Could be mixup with Petter. Pretty much 2 min

[N.O.T]

Hirvonen problems or gps ?

[GallardoGT]

Were I can watch 'eye in the sky'. Becks is very pleased with it now. I remember to watch Francois Duval live his win in Australia in 2005. That's a long time ago.

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Hirvonen is ok.

[Juha_Koo]

Ketomaa stopped in SS3... Apparently he has this Finnish rallying luck... ffs.

[N.O.T]

Novikov replies to Neuvilles time...

Loeb starts to raise the pace also.

[GallardoGT]

Think Latvala has some extra munition.

[N.O.T]

Think Latvala has some extra munition.

yes, but when he uses it it usually backfires...

[Barreis]

Don't see Hirvonen on splits SS4.

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Hirvonen ok, 17:07,09

[GallardoGT]

But now he got sharp munition from the team ...

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Loeb is soooo fast...

[Barreis]

And Solberg must be stupid, one more lost rally.

[N.O.T]

Loeb closes in now...

Solberg off the pace....i think he left a part of his soul in Acropolis rally.

[Perkele!]

What happened to PG?

[Barreis]

Stopped in SS3.

[janvanvurpa]

And Solberg must be stupid, one more lost rally.

Where were all the keyboard ex-spurts who were saying he should be Ford No1?
That Latvala was finished?

But really 2 stages and its done and all lost?

Who is it that must be.........................?