Rally NZ picks its new general manager

Nick Carter of Rally New Zealand. Photo / Supplied

Rally New Zealand has appointed event management specialist Nick Carter as its new general manager.

Carter has a strong background in developing events for global brands such as Nike, Ericsson and Mercedes Benz, and a keen interest in motorsport.

Rally New Zealand's chairman Peter Johnston and his fellow directors say they are delighted to have Carter on board to help organise the team behind the longest-running world championship event in the Southern Hemisphere.

"We are very excited to have a professional event director of Nick's calibre join us," Johnston said. "Nick has a major role to play in helping take the management of Rally NZ to an even higher level in 2012 and beyond."

UK-born Carter has more than 20 years of experience managing large-scale sporting, outdoor and corporate events in Europe and the UK.

He has also worked with motor vehicle companies, designing and managing dealer and customer events throughout the UK.

"I have a historical link with rallying, often watching the fantastic Group B Audi Quattros with my father," said Carter.

The 45-year-old moved to New Zealand with his New Zealand-born fiancee last year to take a contract project management role with the Eden Park Rugby World Cup hospitality team.

Carter is looking forward to the challenges of the full-time role with Rally New Zealand.

"I have observed a huge amount of passion for rallying and motorsport in New Zealand, so I'm thrilled to be part of the team at Rally New Zealand."

Rally NZ 2012

The World Motor Sport Council last week confirmed Rally New Zealand will run as a round of the World Rally Championship in late June in 2012.

The dates - June 21-24 - place Rally New Zealand as a mid-season event in the 13-round 2012 World Rally Championship.