New Zealand has some of the best auto racing players in the world. From the thrilling V8 Supercars to the high-octane Speedway, the country has produced some of the most talented drivers in the world.
Many of these drivers have gone on to compete in the world’s most prestigious races, such as the World Rally Championship and the Formula One Grand Prix.
We will take a look at some of the best auto racing players in New Zealand and what makes them stand out from the rest.
1. Shane van Gisbergen
Shane Robert van Gisbergen is a professional racing driver hailing from New Zealand. He competes in the Supercars Championship, the premier motorsport competition in Australia and New Zealand, for Triple Eight Race Engineering.
He drives the Number 97 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, a powerful American muscle car that is a fan favorite in the series. Van Gisbergen is a highly decorated driver, having won the Supercars Championship title in 2016 and 2020.
He has also won the Bathurst 1000, the most prestigious event in the series, twice in 2016 and again in 2018. His success has made him a fan favorite in the series and he is a well-respected driver in the motorsport world.
In addition to his success in the Supercars Championship, van Gisbergen has also proven to be a successful racecar driver in other series. He has won the 24 Hours of Spa in the GT3 class in 2015 and the 12 Hours of Bathurst in 2018.
He also has experience in the GT World Challenge Europe, the FIA World Endurance Championship, and the Intercontinental GT Challenge. Van Gisbergen is a talented and experienced driver who has been successful both in the Supercars Championship and in other series.
His skill and determination have earned him immense respect in the motorsport community and have made him an admired figure in the sport.
2. Brendon Hartley
Brendon Morris Hartley is an accomplished New Zealand racing driver. He is currently competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship with Toyota Gazoo Racing.
Hartley began his career in karting when he was just six years old and has since worked his way up through various stages of motorsport.
He has won numerous championships throughout his career, including the Formula 3 Euro Series, Formula Renault 3.5 Series, and Porsche Supercup.
In 2017, Hartley was signed by Toyota Gazoo Racing to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship, driving an LMP1 prototype for the team.
The championship consists of eight endurance races, lasting four to six hours, and Hartley has been successful in his racing endeavors with the team, finishing on the podium in a number of races.
Hartley is also a Red Bull Racing Formula One test driver and has been part of the team since 2018. He is an experienced and talented driver and is sure to achieve more success in his career.
3. Liam Lawson
Liam Lawson is a racing driver from New Zealand who is currently competing in two of the most prestigious motorsports in the world, Formula One and Super Formula Championship.
He is driving for Scuderia AlphaTauri in Formula One and for Team Mugen in the Super Formula Championship. Formula One, also known as F1, is the highest class of single-seater auto racing sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
The FIA Formula One World Championship has been one of the premier forms of racing around the world since its inaugural season in 1950. Super Formula Championship, also known as SF, is a top-level open-wheel single-seater motorsport series in Japan.
A predecessor to it, Formula Nippon, competed from 1973 to 2011. The SF Championship is an FIA-sanctioned series and is the second-highest level of single-seater racing in Japan behind Formula One.
Liam Lawson is part of the new wave of young drivers making their mark in the world of motorsport. He is currently one of the most promising drivers in Formula One, and his performance in the Super Formula Championship is also highly impressive.
His skill and determination have earned him a spot amongst the elite drivers on the motorsport scene. As such, he is a great example to aspiring racers who are looking to make their own mark in the sport.
4. Scott Dixon
Scott Ronald Dixon CNZM is a highly accomplished racing driver from New Zealand. He is best known for his success in the IndyCar Series, where he races for Chip Ganassi Racing. Dixon competes in the No.
9 Dallara DW12-Honda car, which has proven to be a winning machine in the hands of the talented New Zealander.
Dixon has won the IndyCar Series championship four times and has also won the prestigious Indianapolis 500 twice, making him one of the most successful drivers in the series.
Dixon has earned numerous accolades for his racing prowess, including being named a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2019. His success on the track has made him a major celebrity in his native New Zealand, with fans following his every move.
Dixon is now considered one of the greatest drivers in IndyCar history, and he shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.
5. Bob Kennett
Bob Kennett is a New Zealand racecar driver who made a name for himself in the United States. He is the father of Brady Kennett, another successful New Zealand race car driver.
In 1969, Bob decided to take his racing career to the next level by competing in the US Trans-Am Series in a Porsche 911. His first race in the series was the Kent 300 in Seattle, where he finished in 14th place.
Later on in the same season, he took part in the ARRC Daytona and placed 9th overall. Overall, Bob Kennett had a successful career in the US, paving the way for his son Brady to follow in his footsteps.
6. Rob Wilson
Rob Wilson is an accomplished former racing driver from New Zealand. He began his career in the early 1990s and was a regular in Formula racing and endurance racing series in the country.
Wilson was a fixture on the New Zealand racing scene, competing in the likes of the New Zealand Formula Ford Championship, the New Zealand Grand Prix, the New Zealand Endurance Championship and the New Zealand Super Tourers Championship.
He was particularly successful in endurance racing, clinching the New Zealand Endurance Championship title in 1997 and 1998.
Outside of New Zealand, Wilson has also enjoyed success in international series, most notably in the Formula Vee World Cup, where he became the first Kiwi driver to win a world championship in the category, taking the title in 2002.
In the same year, he also competed in the FIA GT Championship, a series that features some of the world’s most powerful and sophisticated cars.
Rob Wilson has had a long and successful career in motorsport and is still actively involved in the sport, working as an engineer and mentor to aspiring drivers.
He is also a member of the International Motor Sports Hall of Fame, which is a testament to his achievements and legacy in the sport.
7. Bruce McLaren
Bruce Leslie McLaren was an incredible figure in the world of racing cars. He was born in New Zealand and was known for his work as a designer, driver, engineer, and inventor. McLaren had a passion for racing cars and was determined to make them faster and more efficient.
He was successful in his mission and his name still lives on today in the McLaren Team. The team has been one of the most successful in Formula One championship history, having won a total of 8 World Constructors’ Championships and 12 World Drivers’ Championships.
This is a testament to McLaren’s incredible legacy and dedication to racing car innovation. He was a true pioneer in the field and his influence and achievements will never be forgotten.
8. Howden Ganley
James Howden Ganley is a former racing driver from New Zealand who had an impressive career in the World Championship Formula One Grands Prix from 1971 to 1974.
During this time, he participated in 41 Grands Prix, with two fourth-place finishes and five times finishing in the points, for a total of 10 championship points.
In addition to his accomplishments in the World Championship Formula One Grands Prix, Ganley also participated in numerous non-Championship Formula One races.
His skill and dedication to the sport earned him the respect of the racing community, and his achievements made him an icon in New Zealand.
9. John Nicholson
John Nicholson was a racing driver from Auckland, New Zealand. He was a keen and accomplished driver and had a long and successful career in motorsports.
He had competed in many championships and races throughout his career, including the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix. He made his debut in the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix on 20 July 1974.
He was the first ever New Zealander to compete in the championship and was highly regarded among the racing community. However, he did not score any championship points during his career.
Despite this, he was still regarded as an incredible racing driver, and his legacy lives on today. John Nicholson’s career in motorsports was an impressive one, and he was able to make a name for himself in the world of racing.
He paved the way for other New Zealanders to take part in the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, and his determination and skill will be remembered for years to come.
10. Denny Hulme
Denis Clive Hulme was an esteemed New Zealand racing driver who had the honor of winning the 1967 Formula One World Drivers’ Championship for the Brabham team. His career in the sport began in 1965 at the Monaco Grand Prix, where he debuted as a driver.
Over the course of his career, he participated in 112 Grand Prix races and achieved impressive results with eight victories and 33 podium finishes. He continued to race until his final race in the 1974 US Grand Prix, where he left a lasting legacy in the world of motorsports.
As a testament to his skill and accomplishments, Hulme was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1968.
11. Graham McRae
Graham Peter McRae was an acclaimed racing driver from New Zealand who achieved great success in Formula 5000 racing. He won the Tasman Series three years in a row, from 1971 to 1973. This was a series of races that took place on the New Zealand and Australian circuits.
In addition, he won the 1972 L&M Continental 5000 Championship in the United States. This was a prestigious and highly competitive championship, showcasing the talents of the world’s best racing drivers.
McRae’s success was a testament to his skill and dedication, as well as his willingness to take risks and push himself to the limit. His achievements in Formula 5000 racing earned him considerable respect within the racing world and the admiration of fans.
He was a true champion and a great ambassador for his home country.
12. Tony Shelly
Anthony Lionel Shelly was a racing driver from New Zealand who competed in Formula One in 1962. He participated in three World Championship Grands Prix, as well as several non-Championship races, though he didn’t score any World Championship points.
Shelly was also the owner of Shelly Motors, a BMW dealership located in Honolulu. Shelly Motors was a successful business, and the dealership would remain active until the mid-1980s. Shelly was born in New Zealand and had a passion for racing from a young age.
After competing in several races, he decided to pursue a career in Formula One and moved to England in 1961. Shelly competed in the 1962 season, driving for the Reg Parnell team. He participated in three World Championship Grands Prix, though he failed to score any points.
Despite this, he still managed to compete in a number of non-Championship races. After his Formula One career came to an end, Shelly returned to New Zealand and opened Shelly Motors in Honolulu.
The dealership was a major success, and Shelly remained the owner until the mid-1980s. Shelly Motors was one of the longest-running BMW dealerships in the United States, and it was a testament to Shelly’s business acumen.
Anthony Lionel Shelly’s legacy lives on today, both as a racing driver and as a successful business owner. His passion and dedication to racing and entrepreneurship will be remembered for generations to come.
13. Jim Richards
Jim Richards is a legendary racing driver from New Zealand, who has amassed an impressive collection of championships over his long career. He has won titles in both his native New Zealand and in Australia, where he has been a dominant force in motorsport.
After years of success on the track, Richards has now retired from professional racing, but he still competes in the Touring Car Masters series.
This series brings together classic touring cars from the past and pits them against each other in a thrilling battle of speed and skill.
Although Richards is no longer a professional racer, he continues to demonstrate his extraordinary driving prowess in the Touring Car Masters series. His competitive drive and passion for racing remain as strong as ever, and he is a true ambassador of the sport.
14. Simon Wills
Simon Wills is a name that is well-known in the racing world. He was a former racing driver who competed in various auto racing competitions until his retirement in 2012. After his retirement from racing, he started a new career in graphic design.
He now runs a business that provides graphic design services to clients. Simon’s passion for racing is still evident in his graphic design work. He often incorporates elements of racing into his designs, and his clients appreciate his unique approach.
His designs can be seen in magazines, websites, and advertisements. His artwork has been praised by many for its creative and unique style. Simon is passionate about helping others achieve their dreams in the world of racing.
He is a mentor to many young racers, offering advice and support. He also helps to promote racing events and organizations. Simon’s goal is to help the racing community grow and prosper.
Simon Wills is a former racing driver who has made a successful transition to the world of graphic design. He has taken his passion for racing and combined it with his creative skills to create unique and stunning designs.
His work is admired by many and his dedication to the racing community is admirable.
15. Andrew Bagnall
Andrew Bagnall is a highly respected motor racing driver who was born on February 14, 1947 in Wellington, New Zealand.
He has earned a reputation as one of the most talented and successful drivers on the circuit, having won numerous championships and accolades. Bagnall first started his racing career in the early 1970s, competing in several local events in New Zealand.
He quickly rose to prominence with a number of impressive wins, and in 1975 he made his debut in the prestigious European Formula Ford Championship.
Bagnall went on to win the championship in 1976, cementing his place as one of the top drivers in the world. Since then, Bagnall has gone on to win a number of other prestigious championships, including the Australian Formula Ford Championship in 1982, the British Formula 3 Championship in 1985, and the Australian V8 Supercars Championship in 1991.
In 2003, he was inducted into the Motorsport Hall of Fame, cementing his place in motor racing history. Throughout his career, Bagnall has been known for his skillful driving and his ability to consistently stay at the top of his game.
He has been praised for his sportsmanship and his commitment to fair and safe racing and is recognized as one of the most successful and respected drivers in the world.
16. Robbie Francevic
Robert James Francevic is a retired racing driver who enjoyed a distinguished career in the New Zealand and Australian racing circuits during the 1970s and 1980s. He achieved great success in his career, winning some of the most prestigious races in the region.
His biggest wins include the inaugural Wellington 500 street race in Wellington, New Zealand in 1985, where he raced in a Volvo 240T, and the 1986 Australian Touring Car Championship, in which he also drove a Volvo 240T.
This victory cemented his place as one of the best and most respected drivers of that era. Francevic was known for his skill and expertise as a driver, as well as his determination and commitment to the sport.
He was also known for his willingness to take risks and push himself to the limit in order to achieve success. His racing style was aggressive, but he was also very precise and calculated in his approach.
He was also known for his excellent car control and ability to read the track and adapt to changing conditions. Francevic’s biggest wins were significant milestones in his career and demonstrated his extraordinary talent as a driver.
They are also testament to his passion for the sport and his commitment to excellence. He was undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers of his generation and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of racers.
17. Syd Jensen
Sydney Harold Jensen was a renowned motorcyclist and automobile racer from New Zealand. Born in 1926, Sydney was a talented racer and competed in many Grand Prix motorcycle races throughout his career.
He was a fierce competitor and won several races, including the 1959 and 1960 New Zealand Grand Prix championships.
He was also a successful auto racer, competing in the Tasman Series and New Zealand Grand Prix in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Sydney was an incredibly passionate racer and had a deep love for the sport.
He was an incredibly determined individual, often pushing himself to the limit in order to win races. He was also a highly respected competitor, often praised for his skill and dedication to the sport. Throughout his career, Sydney achieved much success.
He won multiple races and championships and was a well-known name in the racing community.
He was also a popular figure amongst the spectators, often receiving loud cheers from the crowd when he was on the track. Sydney Harold Jensen was a true champion of motorcycling and auto racing and will always be remembered as a legend in the sport.
His love for racing and determination to win will always be remembered and respected.
18. Scott McLaughlin
Scott Thomas McLaughlin is a professional racing driver from New Zealand. He has achieved great success in the sport, competing in the IndyCar Series and Supercars Championship.
In the IndyCar Series, McLaughlin races for Team Penske and uses a Dallara-Chevrolet car with the number 3. This series is highly competitive, and McLaughlin has proven his skill and ability by being a part of it.
McLaughlin’s greatest success has come in the Supercars Championship, where he has won the drivers’ title for three consecutive years. In 2018, 2019 and 2020, McLaughlin secured the championship title, making him one of the most successful drivers in the series.
He is the first driver in the series to win three consecutive titles, and his success has shown no signs of slowing down. Scott Thomas McLaughlin is a powerful force in the racing world, and he has proven his skill and determination on the track.
His success in both the IndyCar Series and the Supercars Championship shows his commitment to the sport, and his ability to perform at the highest level.
19. Earl Bamber
Earl Anderson Bamber is an accomplished racing driver from New Zealand. He is currently racing as part of Porsche Motorsport in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTLM class.
Bamber has had a long and successful career as a racing driver, with the highlight of his career being the 2014 Porsche Supercup championship as well as the double Porsche Carrera Cup Asia championship.
Bamber has demonstrated his ability to be successful in multiple types of racing and has proven to be a valuable asset to Porsche Motorsport.
His dedication to racing has earned him the respect of the racing community and has established him as one of the premier drivers in the world.
20. Fabian Coulthard
Fabian “Fabs” Coulthard is a professional race car driver from New Zealand. He was born in Britain but now competes in the Repco Supercars Championship.
In addition to competing in the championship, Fabian will also be driving as an endurance co-driver for Nick Percat with Walkinshaw Andretti United. He is related to former Formula One driver David Coulthard, as the two are second cousins.
This connection is likely to have been an influence in Fabian’s decision to pursue a career in racing. Fabian’s career has been successful so far, and he continues to make a name for himself in the racing world.
21. Jason Richards
Jason John Richards was an accomplished motor racing driver from New Zealand. He was a highly successful driver in the New Zealand Touring Car Championship, having won multiple championships.
This success inspired him to pursue a career in the V8 Supercar Championship Series, an Australian-based racing series.
His determination to succeed was evident in his decision to leave his home country and follow his dreams in Australia. Richards was a natural talent behind the wheel, having demonstrated his skill and dedication to the sport in the New Zealand Touring Car Championship.
His success in the championship earned him respect and recognition both within the racing community and back home in New Zealand.
His move to Australia was an important milestone in his career, as it allowed him to compete against the best drivers in the world in the V8 Supercar Championship Series. Richards was able to prove his mettle in Australia, where he achieved further success.
He was a regular top 10 finisher in the championship, demonstrating his ability to compete with the best drivers in the world.
His determination and skill were also evident off the track, where he forged relationships with other drivers and teams. Jason John Richards was a talented and determined motor racing driver.
His success in the New Zealand Touring Car Championship led him to move to Australia and pursue a career in the V8 Supercar Championship Series.
He was able to prove his skill in this competitive championship, consistently finishing in the top 10 and building relationships with the other drivers and teams. Richards was a true champion, and his legacy will live on in the world of motor racing.
22. Dave McMillan
Dave McMillan is a former racing driver from New Zealand. He began his career in the 1970s and was a regular presence on both the New Zealand and American racing circuits. During the northern winter season, McMillan raced Formula Fords in his native New Zealand.
This form of motor racing is known for its fast-paced and competitive nature, and McMillan quickly became an accomplished competitor. During the northern summer, McMillan took part in Super Vee races in the United States.
Super Vee is a single-seat formula motor racing series that is known for its thrilling races and high speeds. McMillan made a name for himself on both circuits, becoming a respected driver in both countries.
23. Steven Richards
Steven James Richards is a professional racing driver who competes in the Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Championship. He was born in New Zealand but is now an Australian citizen.
Richards’ father, Jim Richards, is a seven-time winner of the Bathurst 1000, an endurance race held annually in Australia. Following in his father’s footsteps, Steven Richards has managed to win the Bathurst 1000 five times himself, in 1998, 1999, 2013, 2015 and 2018.
This makes him one of the most successful racers in the event’s history. Richards’ career is a testament to the fact that success can run in the family and that hard work and determination can go a long way.
24. Greg Murphy
Gregory Murphy is a professional racing driver from New Zealand. He is renowned for being a four-time winner of the prestigious Bathurst 1000, a 1000-kilometer race held annually at Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia.
The Bathurst 1000 is known for being one of the most prestigious and longest-standing endurance races in the world, and Murphy’s four victories make him one of the most successful drivers in the event’s history. Murphy began his professional racing career in the mid-1990s and has since gone on to compete in a variety of different racing series.
He has won multiple races in the New Zealand V8 SuperTourer series, competing for the likes of Ford and Holden.
He has also competed in the Porsche Carrera Cup Australia, the Australian GT Championship, and the Australian Supercars Championship. Murphy has a reputation for being a reliable and consistent driver, as well as a fierce competitor.
He is well-respected within the racing community, and his four Bathurst 1000 victories are a testament to his skill and determination.
He is an inspiration to many aspiring racing drivers, and his achievements are a great example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
25. Rhys Millen
Rhys Rodney Millen is a professional racing driver who was born in New Zealand. He is the nephew of renowned IMSA GTS driver Steve Millen, the son of Rodney, and the older brother of Ryan. Rhys is one of the top competitors in the sport of drifting in the United States.
His family’s racing heritage has given him a strong foundation to build upon and the support of his entire family has helped him become one of the top drivers in the sport.
His accomplishments in the sport of drifting have earned him considerable recognition, and he continues to strive for excellence in this area. Rhys is passionate about the sport and has been involved with the sport since a young age.
He has raced in many different series, including the Formula Drift Pro Series and the All-Star Drift Championship. His involvement with the sport has helped him gain the respect and admiration of many in the drifting community.
He has worked hard to improve his skills and is always pushing himself to be the best driver he can be.
26. Andy Booth
Andy Booth is a professional racing driver from New Zealand. He began his career relatively late compared to some of his competitors, not starting out in karting like many of his peers.
Instead, he only raced in a few Formula Ford events in his home country before making the decision to move abroad and pursue a professional career in motorsport.
Booth chose to make the jump to international racing and soon found himself competing at a high level in Europe and beyond.
He has since made a name for himself as a successful driver, taking part in a variety of different racing series and earning numerous podiums, race victories, and championships along the way.
With a successful career spanning over two decades, Andy Booth has established himself as one of the leading drivers from New Zealand in the motorsport world.
27. Steve Millen
Steve Millen is a retired race car driver from New Zealand. He started his career in the 1970s and 1980s, competing in hillclimbing and Formula Ford.
This was followed by a move to the United States to take part in stadium off-road racing with the Mickey Thompson Entertainment Group. Millen then moved to sports car racing, where he had a very successful career.
He won several championships in IMSA Camel GT, cementing his place as one of the best race car drivers of his time. His skill, determination, and passion for the sport have earned him a place in the hearts of many racing fans all over the world.
Even though he is now retired, his legacy lives on in the racing world.
28. Reg Cook
Reginald Frederick Cook was a New Zealand cricketer who played in four first-class matches for Canterbury between 1942 and 1949. He was a leg-spin bowler, which relies on a combination of spin and speed to deceive the batsman.
His best first-class performance for Canterbury was 4 for 41 against the touring Fijian team in March 1948. This performance helped Canterbury to a narrow victory, with Cook being the main contributor in the bowling department.
Cook was a relatively unknown cricketer in New Zealand, but his performance against the Fijians was a sign of his potential. He was able to spin the ball at great speed and was able to deceive the batsman with his spin as well.
His ability to combine these two skills made him a dangerous bowler, and it showed in his performance against the Fijians. Cook’s best performance was not his only contribution for Canterbury.
He was also able to take wickets in other matches and was able to contribute to the team in other ways as well. He was a key member of the Canterbury team and was an integral part of their success.
Reginald Frederick Cook was a talented New Zealand cricketer who was able to contribute to the Canterbury team in a number of ways. His best performance came against the Fijians, where he took 4 for 41 and helped Canterbury to a narrow victory.
He was a talented leg-spin bowler and was able to deceive the batsman with his spin and speed, making him a dangerous bowler. He was an important part of the Canterbury team and was an integral part of their success.
29. Possum Bourne
Peter “Possum” Raymond George Bourne was an accomplished New Zealand rally car driver who had achieved many successes in the sport. He was a champion in his own right, with a long-standing career behind him.
Unfortunately, his time in the spotlight came to an abrupt end when he died under non-competitive circumstances while driving on a public road that was to be the track for an upcoming race.
It was a tragic and unexpected accident that took the life of a talented and experienced driver at the height of his career. The circumstances of the accident were unknown, however, it is believed that Bourne was driving too fast for the conditions of the road.
This was a problem that he had faced throughout his career, however, on this particular occasion, it proved to be fatal. Bourne’s death was a huge loss to the rally car racing community, as his skill and enthusiasm had become renowned amongst his peers.
The loss of Bourne was felt particularly hard in his hometown of Invercargill, where he had been a beloved member of the community. His family and friends had known him to be a generous and kind person, who was always willing to help others.
The tragedy of Bourne’s death serves as a reminder of the dangers of driving at high speeds on public roads. It is a reminder that, regardless of the skill of the driver, there is always a risk of serious injury or death.
As such, it is important to drive with caution and to always obey the speed limit as a way of preventing such accidents from occurring.
30. Rod Millen
Rodney Kenneth Millen is an accomplished and versatile New Zealand racing driver, vehicle designer, and business owner.
He is well-known for his successes in many different types of motorsports, such as rally racing, off-road racing, hill climbing, drifting, and super touring. Rally racing is a type of racing in which competitors drive on public roads and race against the clock.
Off-road racing is a form of motorsport that takes place on any type of terrain that is not considered a paved road. Hillclimbing is a motorsport in which vehicles race up a steep hill in the shortest possible time.
Drifting is a motorsport in which drivers purposely oversteer and cause their cars to slide through corners. Super touring is a class of racing that involves production-based cars. Millen has experienced success in all of these motorsports.
He has won a variety of rally championships, including the World Rally Championship, the Asia Pacific Rally Championship, and the New Zealand Rally Championship. He has also won multiple off-road racing championships, including the Baja 500, Baja 1000, and the Mint 400.
In hill climbing, Millen has won two consecutive Pikes Peak International Hill Climb events.
Lastly, Millen has won multiple super touring championships, including the Australian Super Touring Championship and the New Zealand Super Touring Championship. Millen’s success in these various motorsports is a testament to his skill and dedication as a driver.
He is a true professional and has achieved remarkable success in a variety of disciplines. His accomplishments make him one of the most accomplished and respected drivers in the world.
31. Joe McAndrew
Smokin’ Joe McAndrew is an accomplished rally driver from New Zealand who has achieved remarkable success in the sport. He holds the record for the most national championship titles, having won three in a row in the years 1993, 1994 and 1996.
His success was not limited to the national level however, as he also won the 2002 World TWE Marathon, an event which is considered to be one of the most prestigious races in rally driving.
In addition, McAndrew has achieved more than 25 national event wins throughout his career, making him one of the most successful rally drivers in New Zealand’s history.
His achievements are even more impressive when one realizes that he has done all of this despite the relatively small size of the country and the limited resources available to him.
Smokin’ Joe McAndrew is an inspiration to anyone who has ever wanted to pursue a career in rally driving, and his remarkable success story is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
32. Jonny Reid
Jonny Reid is a professional racing driver from New Zealand. He was born as Jonathan Ross Reid but is most commonly known by his nickname Jonny Reid. Jonny has been a driver since his teenage years and has been involved in a variety of racing series.
He is well known for his success in the V8 Supercars Championship Series, where he has won four titles since his debut in 2006.
He has also competed in various other series, including the American Le Mans Series, Porsche Carrera Cup and Formula Ford. Jonny has been described as an aggressive and determined driver.
He has a reputation for pushing the limits of what is possible on the track, which has earned him the respect of his fellow drivers and his fans.
His passion and commitment to racing have helped him to achieve success at the highest level of competition. Jonny has a strong following of fans in New Zealand and beyond.
He is often seen as an ambassador for New Zealand motorsport, and he is a popular figure in the racing community.
He has also been involved in charitable work, using his fame to help raise awareness for a number of causes, including road safety and animal welfare. Jonny Reid is an important figure in the motorsport world, and his passion and success have made him a role model for aspiring racing drivers.
He is a great example of how hard work and dedication can help people to achieve their goals and make their dreams a reality.
33. Mark Porter
Mark “Didley” Porter was a talented racing driver from New Zealand who earned a name for himself competing in the Fujitsu V8 Supercar touring car racing series in Australia. His first race in the series was in 2002 when he drove a Ford Falcon at Wakefield Park.
That same year, he made his debut in the prestigious Bathurst 1000 race. This was a major milestone in his career, and it certainly helped to raise his profile in the racing community.
Mark was known for his racing talent and sense of style, often wearing bright yellow racing suits to stand out from the crowd. His success in the V8 Supercar series earned him many fans and supporters, and his popularity only grew with each race.
He was a true professional and his presence in the racing world was certainly felt. Although his career was cut short due to an injury, Mark will always be remembered as an incredible driver. His legacy lives on in the racing community, and his name is still remembered by many.
He was an inspirational figure who will never be forgotten.
34. Kayne Scott
Kayne Scott is a well-known name in the motorsport world. He began his journey in this field when he was just 12 years old by competing in motocross.
Since then, he has gone on to win multiple titles, including five New Zealand Trans-Am championships and the 2005/06 New Zealand V8s series. His career was temporarily interrupted from 1996 to 2003, where he took a seven-year sabbatical for business reasons.
This break gave him the opportunity to pursue his business interests while allowing him to return to motor racing with a fresh perspective. Despite the long break, Scott has proven to be a successful and talented driver, as evidenced by his many championship titles.
He is a great example of how dedication and hard work can help one achieve their goals, no matter how long the journey may be.
35. Bert Hawthorne
Herbert William Hawthorne was a remarkable racing driver from New Zealand. Born in Derryhennett, County Armagh, Northern Ireland, he had a passion for cars from a young age.
At the age of thirteen, he made the brave decision to immigrate to New Zealand in pursuit of his dream. Once settled in New Zealand, Hawthorne began to hone his skills as a racing driver. He quickly became a renowned figure on the racing circuit.
His impressive driving abilities allowed him to successfully compete in a variety of events. He was known for his ability to navigate tight corners and maintain control of his vehicle at high speeds. Hawthorne also invested in a number of racing teams.
His financial support enabled them to purchase the latest in vehicle technology, giving them a competitive edge.
He also provided mentorship to younger drivers, giving them the opportunity to learn from a master in the field. Hawthorne’s achievements have been remembered long after his death.
He was a man of ambition and determination, serving as an inspiration to all those who have followed in his footsteps. His legacy lives on in the racing world, providing a reminder of the great heights one can reach with dedication and hard work.
36. Carl Ruiterman
Carl Ruiterman is a professional drifting driver from Pukekohe, New Zealand. He began his drifting career in 2005, making his debut in the D1NZ championship driving a Nissan Skyline R32.
After two years of competing in the championship, he achieved his first major success in 2007 when he won the championship title driving a Nissan Silvia S14. Before becoming a professional drifting driver, Carl had a passion for motocross.
He raced motocross for three years, demonstrating his natural talent for driving and competing in motorsports.
His skill and determination in the motocross arena helped him to hone his drifting skills and eventually become the champion he is today. Carl Ruiterman is a respected member of the drifting community in New Zealand, and his success in the D1NZ championship has earned him a great deal of recognition.
His impressive achievements have made him an inspiration to many aspiring drifting drivers, and he continues to be an active member of the drifting community.
37. Adam Richards
Adam Richards is a professional drifting driver from New Plymouth, New Zealand. He has been involved in the drifting scene since 2003 and achieved great success, winning the D1NZ championship in 2005 while driving a modified Nissan Cefiro.
After his success in New Zealand, Adam went on to compete in the D1 All Stars Drift Championship in 2006 and 2007. This is a global championship that brings together the best drivers from around the world.
Adam has proven himself to be one of the top drivers in the sport and has achieved recognition and respect from his peers. He is an inspiration to aspiring drifters and a great ambassador for the sport.
38. Paul Radisich
Paul Radisich is a retired racing driver and businessman from New Zealand of Croat origin. He has had a long and successful career in the motorsport scene, competing in a variety of saloon cars.
Radisich’s racing career mainly focused on European-style tourers, such as the Ford Mondeo and Nissan Primera, as well as the V8 Supercars of Australia and New Zealand.
He has enjoyed great success in both of these disciplines, taking home multiple race wins throughout his career.
Radisich is also an accomplished businessman, having held numerous executive positions in the industry, including a role as an ambassador for the Ford Performance Racing Team.
His experience in the motorsport world has helped him to become a highly respected figure in the industry.
39. Matthew Halliday
Matthew Halliday is a professional motor racing driver from New Zealand. He was born in the largest city in the country, Auckland, and has been racing since he was a young child.
Halliday has achieved a great level of success in his career and is now a household name in the motor racing world.
He has won numerous races, including the New Zealand Grand Prix in 2019, and has even competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Halliday’s success has been attributed to his work ethic and dedication to the sport.
He has trained hard to improve his craft and puts in countless hours in the garage and on the track.
His passion for motor racing has made him a fan favorite among the racing community, and he is often seen at international events, signing autographs and interacting with his supporters. Halliday’s success has also been credited to his natural talent and skill behind the wheel.
He is a master of maneuvering through tight corners and has an incredible sense of timing and acceleration.
This has enabled him to consistently place in the top of the leaderboards and has earned him the respect of many of his fellow drivers. The future looks bright for Matthew Halliday, and he has his sights set on becoming one of the best drivers in the world.
He is a role model for aspiring racers, and his story of hard work and dedication serve as an inspiration to those looking to follow in his footsteps.
40. Hayden Paddon
Hayden Paddon is a successful and well-known New Zealand rally driver. He has achieved great success, both nationally and internationally, during his racing career. In 2011, Paddon won the FIA Production World Rally Championship, becoming the first New Zealander to do so.
His success continued in the New Zealand Rally Championship, where he won five titles in 2008, 2009, 2013, 2018 and 2021. This makes him the most successful driver in the history of the championship, cementing his legacy in the racing world.
Paddon’s success is an inspiration to many, showing what is possible when you set your mind to a goal and work hard to achieve it.
41. Jono Lester
Jonathan Robert Lester is a professional racing driver from New Zealand. He competes in a wide range of GT3 and touring car championships around the Asia-Pacific region.
He has been racing professionally for many years and has gained a reputation as a talented and experienced driver.
His career has seen him take on some of the most challenging and competitive racing circuits in the region. Throughout his racing career, Jonathan has won numerous championships and has driven for some of the leading teams in the region.
He has also competed at the highest level of international motorsport, competing in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race.
His impressive achievements make him one of the most successful drivers from New Zealand in modern racing history. In addition to his racing career, Jonathan is also actively involved in the motorsport community in New Zealand.
He is a keen supporter of the sport and is often seen at various motorsport events.
He also works with the New Zealand Motorsport Association to promote motor racing in the country. Jonathan Robert Lester is an inspiration to aspiring drivers from New Zealand and is an excellent example of what can be achieved when hard work and dedication are applied to a chosen profession.
He is an excellent ambassador for the sport of racing and his dedication to the sport and his country is admirable.
42. Angus Fogg
Angus Fogg is a professional race car driver from New Zealand. He has achieved considerable success in his career, having won a number of championships and becoming a household name in New Zealand and beyond.
Fogg began his racing career in 2000, competing in the New Zealand Formula Ford Championship. From there he went on to compete in the New Zealand V8 Ute Series, the BNT V8s and the Toyota Racing Series. He won the New Zealand V8 Ute Series in 2008, and the BNT V8s in 2013.
Fogg also competed in the Australian V8 Ute Series, winning the championship in 2014. This made him the first New Zealander to win the series. He also won the Toyota Racing Series in 2016, further cementing his status as one of New Zealand’s most successful racing drivers.
Fogg is now retired from professional racing, but still competes in a number of different motorsport events and has a passion for cars.
He is highly respected in the racing community and has won numerous awards for his accomplishments, including the prestigious New Zealander of the Year award in 2018.
Overall, Angus Fogg is a championship-winning New Zealand racing driver who has achieved remarkable success in his career. He has inspired many younger racers with his accomplishments and is an excellent example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
43. Ted Tracey
Ted Tracey is a retired Speedway racing driver from New Zealand who started his career in 1974. He began his journey in the sport by racing in a Speedway Midget, a type of race car designed for oval-shaped dirt track racing.
His skill and determination was evident from the start as he was promoted to the highest level of racing, ‘A’ grade, after just one season. Even more impressive was that, on the final night of his first season, he won a major championship.
This is a remarkable feat for a rookie driver and shows the potential Ted had for the sport. Throughout his career, Ted continued to race with great success.
His skill on the track earned him the respect of fellow drivers, and his name became synonymous with Speedway racing in New Zealand. Ted was a formidable driver who was always a top contender in any race he entered.
After a successful career of over thirty years, Ted decided to retire in 2005 and take a step back from the sport he loves. The legacy that Ted Tracey has left behind in the world of Speedway racing is one of great excellence.
He was a pioneer of the sport in New Zealand and an inspiration to the next generation of drivers. His drive, determination and skill on the track are a testament to his talent and commitment to the sport. Ted Tracey is a true champion of Speedway racing.
44. Marcus Armstrong
Marcus John Armstrong is an accomplished motor racing driver from New Zealand who is currently competing in the NTT IndyCar Series. He is driving for Chip Ganassi Racing in 2023, having come to this series from the FIA Formula 2 Championship, where he competed from 2020 to 2022.
For four years prior to that, between 2017 and 2021, he was part of the prestigious Ferrari Driver Academy. This allowed him to gain valuable experience and knowledge in the racing world and to hone his skills in preparation for higher level competitions.
Armstrong has clearly demonstrated his abilities and has become a competitive and successful driver. He is certainly a driver to watch in the coming years.
45. David Oxton
David Oxton is a renowned former New Zealand racing driver who has spent most of his career competing in open wheel cars in the racing circuits of both New Zealand and Australia. He was well-known for his skills behind the wheel and was known to be a fierce competitor.
Oxton spent the majority of his career racing open wheel cars, such as Formula Ford and Formula Holden, in his native New Zealand and across the Tasman in Australia.At the end of his career, Oxton decided to take on a different challenge and switch to driving touring cars.
He raced in the New Zealand Touring Car Championship and the Australian Super Touring Championship, with some success.
His impressive driving skills and daring attitude saw him make a successful transition from open wheel to touring cars. Oxton’s career may have come to an end, but his influence on the sport of racing is still felt today.
He was a pioneer in the open wheel racing scene in New Zealand and Australia, and his fearless approach to racing continues to inspire generations of drivers.
Conclusion
New Zealand has some of the best auto racing players in the world. These players are skilled and passionate about the sport and have achieved great success in the international arena.
They have proven that New Zealand is a great place to develop and hone your skills and that the country can produce some of the best auto racing players in the world.
