Kids’ car contest open

Toyota New Zealand is calling for entries to its annual Dream Car Art Contest.

The competition encourages children to explore imaginative ideas for the future of mobility and sustainability by creating visually captivating and inspiring artwork.

From flying cars with zero emissions to hoverboards and space buggies for adventures on moons and planets, the contest “opens the door to endless possibilities”.

Susanne Hardy, assistant vice-president, says: “Toyota NZ is committed to innovation and continuous improvement. 

“Mobility, sustainability and community are our focuses to get to a better Aotearoa New Zealand for all. This is why we support the innovative Emirates Team NZ and are working to grow the hydrogen ecosystem.

“Toyota holds this contest with the hope children will unleash their creativity and dream of a better future. 

“Whether they will be inspired by America’s Cup boats flying on their foils or the idea of flying electric cars drawing energy from the sun, the Dream Car Art Contest is their chance to let their imaginations run free.”

Open to children up to the age of 15, the global competition has been running for 18 years. Kiwi winners of each age category win local cash prizes with the top three in each category having their work submitted to the judges.

Entries can be made in three age categories – seven and under, eight to 11-year-olds and 12 to 15-year-olds. 

The competition closes on January 10. This year, schools can integrate it into end-of-year activities and those with the most individual entries will win a $1,000 Prezzy Card. 

Each age-category winner will receive a $500 Prezzy Card and go forward into the global contest, which will announce winners in August 2025. Visit toyota.co.nz/dreamcar for more details.