Hella International Rally of Whangarei

As part of the “New Caledonia New Zealand Season 2007”, five New Caledonian rally drivers are competing in the 2007 Hella International Rally of Whangarei. The rally, which begins with an official opening ceremony on 11 May and is followed by racing on 12 & 13 May, is the second round of the 2007 FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship.

The drivers are:

Alexis Barbou

Patrick Christian

Robert Christian

JeanLouis Leyraud

Patrick Yanai

This is the first time Whangarei City (located 160kms north of Auckland) has hosted the New Zealand round of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship. This annual Championship features rounds in New Caledonia, Australia, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia and China.

For the past nine years this rally has been based in Rotorua and the move to the north will allow competitors to enjoy the fast and smooth roads that have traditionally been used by the World Rally Championship event, Rally New Zealand. These will provide a fitting challenge and true test of driver ability, whether they are accustomed to these relatively smooth and cambered roads or are visiting the region for the first time.

The rally will be held in both the Whangarei and Kaipara Districts and will feature the famous Hella Bridge which will be used on both days of racing. The Super Stage on Pohe Island next to the river in Whangarei City will be run twice.

Further information at www.rallywhangarei.co.nz or www.fiaaprc.com

Hella International Rally of Whangarei images