Motorsport: Big line-up for NZ Rally Championship

Sam Murray in action during last year's Rally New Zealand. Photo / Greg Bowker

A bumper field of 32 has entered this year's New Zealand motor rally championship.

The six round series starts in the Wairarapa next month with 16 entries for the Group N four wheel-drive class, eight for the Group N two-wheel drive/Kiwi2 class and eight for the classic category.

While the overall battle will be between Subaru and Mitsubishi drivers, the line-up will also include Ford Fiestas and a brand new Nissan Micra.

Championship co-ordinator Laurie Brenssell said the quantity and depth of entries received prior to the first round was "exciting".

Entries include defending champion Sam Murray (Palmerston North), runner-up Hayden Paddon (Geraldine) and former champion Richard Mason (Masterton).

The Rally of Wairarapa will be held from April 12 to 13.

- NZPA