A Day at the 2022 WRC Rally in New Zealand: Mud, Rain, and Thrills
A Wet Start to an Electric Day
The morning dawned wet and gray as I pulled on my rain jacket and waterproof boots, ready for an exhilarating day at the 2022 WRC Rally in New Zealand. With Auckland and Hamilton playing host to this leg of the championship, the atmosphere was electric despite the gloomy skies. It had been years since the WRC graced Kiwi shores, and there was no way I was going to miss it—rain or shine.
Mud, Engines, and Pure Adrenaline
I arrived at the shakedown stage just outside Hamilton, where the rolling hills had turned into a muddy playground for the world’s best rally drivers. The sound of roaring engines echoed through the countryside, mingling with the cheers of devoted fans huddled under umbrellas and ponchos. The rain, far from dampening spirits, added an extra layer of drama to the event. Slippery conditions meant one mistake could spell disaster for the drivers, and the excitement in the air was palpable.
Capturing the Action Through My Lens
As the first car tore through the stage, the sheer speed and skill on display left me awestruck. The spray of mud as tires struggled for grip, the precision of cornering on treacherous roads—it was a spectacle unlike any other. Standing by a hairpin bend, camera in hand, I was determined to capture the raw energy of the rally. My Sony a7C, paired with a weather-sealed 70-200mm lens, handled the elements admirably. Despite the drizzle fogging up my viewfinder now and then, I managed to snap some dynamic shots of the cars kicking up rooster tails of dirt.
Rally Titans in Action
The rally featured some of the sport's biggest names: Kalle Rovanperä, Ott Tänak, and Thierry Neuville, among others. Watching Rovanperä’s Toyota GR Yaris fly past, seemingly impervious to the slippery gravel, was a highlight of the day. The young Finn's car control in these treacherous conditions was nothing short of masterful, and the crowd roared in approval as he executed a perfect drift around a tight corner.
Kiwi Heroes: Paddon and van Gisbergen
Hayden Paddon
But for Kiwi fans, the real excitement lay in the local heroes. Hayden Paddon, a seasoned rally driver and a New Zealand favorite, showcased his skill and determination, expertly navigating the challenging conditions in his Hyundai i20 N. Paddon’s homecoming was met with loud cheers from fans who had followed his impressive international career. It was clear he was determined to put on a show for the local crowd, and he didn’t disappoint.
Shane van Gisbergen
Adding to the buzz was Shane van Gisbergen, making his WRC debut. Known for his prowess in circuit racing, van Gisbergen’s transition to rallying was one of the most anticipated storylines of the event. Watching him tackle the stages with grit and adaptability was inspiring. While it was his maiden WRC race, van Gisbergen handled the slippery gravel with remarkable confidence, earning respect from fans and seasoned competitors alike. His aggressive yet calculated approach hinted at his potential to make a name for himself in the rallying world.
Behind the Scenes: The Service Park
Between stages, I explored the service park in Hamilton, where the teams worked tirelessly to keep the cars in top shape. It was fascinating to see the mechanics in action, their efficiency almost as impressive as the drivers themselves. Fans mingled with team personnel, snapping photos and getting autographs despite the rain. The smell of coffee and sizzling sausages wafted through the air, offering a welcome reprieve from the cold.
Braving the Muddy Madness
By midday, the rain had intensified, turning parts of the stages into veritable mud baths. Spectators laughed and slipped as they navigated the soggy terrain, their camaraderie evident despite the challenging weather. I joined a group of fans near a fast downhill section, where the drivers’ bravery was on full display. The roar of the engines was deafening, and the sight of cars hurtling past at breakneck speeds was enough to make my heart race.
Reflections on a Rain-Soaked Adventure
As the day wore on, I found myself reflecting on what makes rallying so special. It’s not just the speed or the skill, but the connection between fans, drivers, and the unpredictable elements. The rain, far from being an inconvenience, felt like a character in the story—challenging the drivers, testing their limits, and bringing fans closer together.
By the time the final stage concluded, I was soaked to the bone but thoroughly exhilarated. The 2022 WRC Rally in New Zealand was everything I’d hoped for and more. Watching Hayden Paddon shine and witnessing Shane van Gisbergen’s impressive debut made it a particularly memorable event. As I packed up my gear and trudged back to my car, I couldn’t help but smile. It was a day of mud, rain, and unforgettable thrills—a day I’ll be reminiscing about for years to come.
