Garry Pedersen sits in a Begg FM4 Formula 5000. Image: Terry Marshall
Pedersen, who had his 84th birthday on Thursday, died on Sunday after being diagnosed with cancer.
Pedersen was a staple of the scene in New Zealand as a driver, mechanic, car builder and team owner.
He was a stalwart of the highly successful NZV8s that ruled the touring car landscape in the 1990s and 2000s, running a successful team with Mark ‘Jandals’ Sheehan.
Pedersen Sheehan Racing brought the eponymous team owner’s son Mark Pedersen two national touring car championships in 2000 and 2003.
Craig Baird also won an NZV8 title under Pedersen in the iconic United Video colours in 2010.
His contribution to the sport was recognised in 2011 when he was appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
“MotorSport New Zealand is saddened to acknowledge the passing of Garry Pedersen MNZM, a true legend of New Zealand motorsport,” MotorSport New Zealand said in a statement.
“Garry’s contribution to the sport spanned decades as a driver, engineer, car builder and mentor.
“From winning the New Zealand Sports Car Championship and competing at the front of Formula 5000, through to building championship-winning touring cars and supporting the careers of countless others, his influence on New Zealand motorsport was immense.”
Pedersen was also among the early adopters of V8 SuperTourers under the PS Racing banner.
The team’s drivers included Baird, George Miedecke, Chris Pither, Kayne Scott, Dan Gaunt, Chris Hanley and Gene Rollinson.
“Garry was one of those special people whose contribution to motorsport went far beyond his own achievements behind the wheel,” said MotorSport New Zealand president Deb Day.
“His knowledge, ingenuity and willingness to help others left a lasting mark on our sport and on so many of the people within it.
“New Zealand motorsport is richer for everything Garry gave to it, and he will be greatly missed.”
Pedersen is survived by his wife Pauline, son Mark and daughter Louise.