Motorsport stars to battle in NZ

Some of motorsport’s biggest names will be coming to Wellington next year for the Race Of Champions (ROC) as the event makes its first appearance in New Zealand.

The contest will feature drivers going head-to-head in identical competition cars on a purpose-built tarmac circuit inside Hnry Stadium, pictured, on January 9-10.

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel, 2025 Supercars champion and ROC Sydney 2025 runner-up Chaz Mostert, 10-time Formula 1 race winner Valtteri Bottas and New Zealand rally star Hayden Paddon are among those set to take to the track.

The government is backing the event through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), and WellingtonNZ has partnered with ROC and Hnry Stadium to make the occasion a key part of its summer activities.

Fredrik Johnsson, ROC president and co-founder, says: “We are very excited to bring the Race Of Champions to Wellington and New Zealand for the first time. 

“This is one of the most beautiful places on earth and there is so much passion for motorsport and so many talented drivers here. 

“It will be fascinating to see the Kiwi stars compete against some of the international superstars from F1, world rally and more in front of their home fans.” 

Mark Oldershaw, WellingtonNZ chief executive, predicts the contest will be one of Wellington’s standout summer events. 

“It’s not often we have the chance to see champions from different racing disciplines go wheel-to-wheel, making this a truly special experience,” he adds. 

“Whether you’re a lifelong motorsport fan or simply looking for an exciting summer day out, we encourage everyone – including families – to head along to Hnry Stadium and enjoy the adrenaline and atmosphere.” 

Paddon, a seven-time New Zealand rally champion, took part in ROC when it visited Sydney in March 2025 and says it’s amazing the event is coming to his home country.

“New Zealand is really in a golden age of motorsport at the moment across so many disciplines and I can’t think of a more fitting celebration of this than hosting the Race Of Champions that attracts so many of the biggest stars from all around the world,” he continues. 

“This is really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Kiwi motorsport fans to get up close and personal with drivers from F1, WRC, circuit and other motorsport forms, all battling it out in equal machinery inside one of NZ’s most famous sports stadiums.” 

Tickets are now on sale via Ticketek New Zealand, with single day passes from $49 and weekend passes from $74.