The TA2 New Zealand Championship will begin its 2025/26 season at Hampton Downs.
Until now, the series has been run as part of an all-comers V8 series. However, with a 16-car grid for its 2025/26 season opener, the series can now stand on its own two feet.
The six-round series begins at Hampton Downs on October 31-November 2 as part of the NextGen NZ Championship program.
The New Zealand summer series is being promoted by Tony Quinn’s National Racing Group Promotions Limited for just the second year.
This season, MotorSport New Zealand gave the TA2 category championship status, and the first round has gathered a healthy competitor contingent.
Headlining the Hampton Downs entry list is Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia regular Clay Osborne.
V8 ute racing champion Peter Ward has entered, as has ex-drifter Daynom ‘Slim’ Templeman.
The series has also attracted one female driver, Brianna Hughes.
“This is a super exciting Championship built for the fans,” said TA2 category manager Gary Lathrope.
“TA2 brings back the sound, the speed, and the style of racing that people want to see.
“It’s been a long time in the making and we’re proud to be introducing it to New Zealand, and we can’t wait for the lights to go out at round one.”
The TA2 New Zealand Championship will have three races across the weekend, with coverage in Australia via Kayo Sports.
Entry List: TA2 New Zealand Championship, Hampton Downs
Num
Driver
Car
5
Andrew Turner
Chevrolet Camaro
11
Mark Pitcher
Ford Mustang
20
Dylan Grant
Ford Mustang
24
Maurice Shapley
Ford Mustang
28
Clay Osborne
Ford Mustang
33
Caleb Byers
Ford Mustang
61
Karl Gaines
Ford Mustang
69
Peter Ward
Ford Mustang
71
Jamie McDonald
Chevrolet Camaro
74
Toby Elmiger
Ford Mustang
75
Rhys Gould
Ford Mustang
77
Elton Wichman
Ford Mustang
88
Daniel Udy
Ford Mustang
93
Daynom Templeman
Ford Mustang
98
Leo Bult
Ford Mustang
143
Brianna Hughes
Ford Mustang