All the winners: 2026 MotorSport New Zealand Awards Evening

The stars of New Zealand motorsport were celebrated in style on Saturday night as the 2026 MotorSport New Zealand Awards Evening honoured the competitors, volunteers, officials, media, and clubs who have made an outstanding contribution to the sport over the past 12 months.

Held at the prestigious Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, the evening brought together members of the motorsport community from across the country to reflect on another remarkable year for the sport.

Among the night’s biggest winners was Supercars race winner and Bathurst 1000 champion Matthew Payne, who claimed the prestigious Jim Clark Trophy for race drivers following another standout season in Australia’s premier touring car category.

Historic racing’s highest honour, the Lupp Trophy, was awarded to Anna Collins after her exceptional season in Formula 5000 machinery, including securing the New Zealand Formula 5000 Championship.

The Steel Memorial Trophy for junior drivers was presented to Marco Manson following his impressive New Zealand Formula Ford Championship-winning campaign, while the Rally Founders Trophy was awarded to championship-winning duo Ben Hunt and Tony Rawstorn after securing their fourth New Zealand Rally Championship together.

The future of New Zealand motorsport was also celebrated, with Jack Stokes announced as the winner of the Ian Snellgrove Trophy as the top graduate of the 2025 Elite MotorSport Academy.

The next generation was officially welcomed into the programme as the Class of 2026 for the Elite MotorSport Academy was announced:

• Mac Templeton
• Chris White
• Ajay Gidday
• Hayden Graves
• Marco Manson
• Toby Elmiger
• Taylor Mitchell
• Nathan Grammer

A number of significant honours were also presented throughout the evening, recognising the individuals and organisations whose dedication continues to strengthen motorsport across New Zealand.

The Canterbury Car Club was recognised as Club of the Year after delivering an extraordinary 51 events throughout 2025 and playing a critical role in preparing Ruapuna to host Supercars.

Former interim CEO and Member D’Honneur Wayne Scott received a Special Award recognising his leadership and commitment during a critical period for the organisation, helping guide MotorSport New Zealand back to financial stability during a challenging transition period.

Joe Lawry received a Citation Award recognising his contribution to motorsport broadcasting, innovation, and storytelling over more than 15 years.

Distinguished Service Awards were presented to:

Stu Andrews for his outstanding service as a Technical Officer, Steward, Clerk of the Course, and leader within the technical department across multiple national championships and events.

John and Janice Holmes for nearly five decades of dedication to the Thoroughbred and Classic Car Owners Club through administration, event delivery, historic racing, and preserving New Zealand’s classic motorsport heritage.

Brian Hamilton for his lifelong contribution as a competitor, organiser, club leader, and highly respected official and mentor across grassroots motorsport.

Gary Lathrope for his significant contribution to major motorsport events, volunteer coordination, category management, and helping establish the TA2 New Zealand Championship.

Taupō Car Club’s Vijay Dheda was named Volunteer of the Year for his tireless contribution coordinating volunteers and events across all levels of the sport.

The media awards again showcased the incredible storytelling talent within New Zealand motorsport.

Tayler Burke claimed Photographer of the Year for a remarkable seventh time, while also taking out the President’s Award for Best Single Shot.

Video Content of the Year went to Scrambler for the acclaimed “Project 50” production alongside Paddon Racing Group.

Andy Kruy received the Best Use of Digital Media award for his outstanding work elevating the digital presence of Toyota GAZOO Racing New Zealand.

MotorSport New Zealand President Deborah Day said the evening highlighted the incredible depth of talent and passion that exists throughout New Zealand motorsport.

“Tonight is about recognising the people who make our sport what it is, from volunteers and officials through to competitors, clubs, and media professionals. The passion, dedication, and professionalism shown across our community continues to drive motorsport forward in New Zealand.”