All Systems Go for Propecia Rally NZ in Waikato

For immediate release from Propecia Rally New Zealand
For further information visit www.rallynz.org.nz

24 May 2006

All Systems Go for Propecia Rally NZ in the Waikato

Inner City Start Venue Confirmed

A recent visit by the organizing team of Propecia Rally New Zealand has confirmed that Hamilton and the Mystery Creek Event Centre will provide great facilities for the November round of the World Rally Championship.

In confirming the official Rally start location in the Hamilton CBD, Propecia Rally NZ General Manager Paul Mallard said the response from all sections of the management team was positive to the infrastructure on offer as the event moves into ‘new’ yet familiar territory.

“All departments expressed their satisfaction from all aspects. Mystery Creek is going to transform into a wonderful rally headquarters and Service Park, the start venue at Hood Street in the CBD will showcase the event and Hamilton to millions watching around the world and of course the rally route is on world class roads that have not been used in recent years and will present a new challenge to the current crop of competitors.”

Hamilton Mayor Michael Redman says the arrival of the WRC in the city reinforces Hamilton's position as a major events destination.

"Naturally we are delighted to have the official rally start in the CBD and to be able to host the drivers, support crews and the many international and national visitors that an event like the WRC brings. Having the official start of the rally at Hood Street – Hamilton’s night life hub - will add further vibrancy and action to the central city. Its a great place to catch a close up of the cars and be a part of the excitement as the rally begins."

Mallard says rally fans new and old are in for a treat with the move to the new venue.

“Mystery Creek will afford us the luxury of the WRC service area being completely under cover, this is the first time this has happened in New Zealand. It also provides one singular focal point for the event outside of the official start in the City. Rally fans old and new can visit the Service Park to see the Special Stage (twice), be entertained throughout the event and of course gain an insight into the running of a round of the WRC – the sheer scope of the event will shock many first timers.”

The Special Stage is designed with the spectators in mind says Rally NZ Clerk of the Course Willard Martin.

“In designing the Mystery Creek rally stage we aim to provide an exciting spectacle for our spectators at the same time ensuring that it will be safe for everybody. The stage includes a water splash to provide exciting viewing for the spectators. We are also considering the possibility of holding the pre-event test session (Shakedown) at the venue which will again provide a great opportunity for spectators to get a taste of the WRC up close.”

Rally Chairman Morrie Chandler is also quick to allay concerns about the ability of the region to cope with the influx of visitors, citing the attitude of the Hamilton City Council as key to the success of the event.

“There is a broad range of suitable accommodation offered throughout the region, from Hamilton City to surrounding towns such as Cambridge. The feedback we are getting from officials to supporters to sponsors is that they are looking forward to a new environment and one that they can enjoy exploring while following the event at a more leisurely pace. Hamilton City Council is clearly a progressive organization and has taken positive approach to hosting events of this magnitude and will I’m sure help put on a great show for our many thousands of visitors, competitors and sponsors.”

Propecia Rally NZ
Round of the World Rally Championship
17 to 19 November 2006
Mystery Creek Event Centre

ENDS

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