Dunlop Targa Rally returns to Havelock North

The prestigious 2011 Dunlop Targa Rally will finish in Havelock North after last being in the Hawke’s Bay in 2007.

The cars assemble in Auckland on Monday October the 24th for the start of the event which attracts some of the most exotic machinery to take to a rally stage in New Zealand. Competition vehicles range from vintage sports cars, to expensive European machinery and current, state-of-the-art 4WD rally cars.

Drivers hurl their vehicles over hundreds of kilometres of closed, sealed roads around rural North Island during six days of full on racing. Cars to line up in this year’s event include assorted models of BMW’s, a number of ultra quick Nissan GTR’s and the exotic Stillen GT-R driven by USA based Kiwi flier, Steve Millen.

Havelock North will become the centre of post rally festivities on the Saturday night, when competitors, their teams and supporters will wind down following a gruelling week of competition.

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule says” local businesses will benefit as we welcome the Targa drivers, crew and supporters back to the region. Hawke’s Bay roads were used in the rally from 2004 through to 2007. The competitors love our roads and it’s another chance to highlight Hastings to potential visitors.”

“Council is determined to do all it can to attract these types of events to Hastings. Businesses all over the region will see the value of bringing this event here, with café’s, restaurants and motels likely to benefit from the influx of visitors.”

The drivers will have a service break at the Hawke’s Bay Racing Centre around lunchtime on Saturday where enthusiasts will be able to get a close up look at the vehicles.

Targa event director Peter Martin says” he is delighted that the rally is again able to finish in Havelock North. Hastings District Council has been extremely supportive of having the event return to the region and in past years local motorsport fans have turned out in their droves to support the drivers and their crews.”

A breakfast ahead of the official prize giving is to be held in the Hawke’s Bay Opera House in Hastings on Sunday morning from 9am.

What: 2011Targa Rally
Start: Auckland Monday October 24th
Finish: Havelock North Saturday October 29th. First car across official finish line, 5.05pm