Jones claims glory at NZ Gold Star Hillclimb Championship

The roar of engines and the thrill of hillclimb competition filled Port Waikato over the weekend as competitors from across the country battled for national honours at the 2025 NZ Gold Star Hillclimb Championship, hosted by the Pukekohe Car Club on 22–23 November.

The championship featured two contrasting days of action, with Saturday’s runs contested on sealed tarmac roads before Sunday delivered a demanding shift to gravel. Across both days, drivers were pushed to adapt, attack, and extract maximum bravery from their machines in the pursuit of national titles.

Kingsley Jones delivered an exceptional performance across both surfaces, topping the timesheets on Saturday’s sealed hillclimb and again on Sunday’s gravel course. His consistency, speed, and adaptability saw him crowned the 2025 NZ Gold Star Hillclimb Champion, securing the prestigious title in commanding style.

Sam Miller claimed the runner-up honours after a strong and steady weekend, finishing third on the sealed day and improving to second on gravel. His combined effort placed him second overall. Rounding out the podium was Thomas Good, whose impressive pace kept him in the fight throughout the weekend to secure third overall in the national championship.

In addition to the overall honours, national titles were awarded across both drivetrain categories.

A standout weekend for Thomas Good extended beyond his overall podium, with the Auckland-based driver securing the 2WD Hillclimb Championship. His pace across both surfaces proved too strong for the competition. Tony Differ finished runner up with Mark Bradley third.

The 4WD field saw another clean sweep for Kingsley Jones, who added to his overall crown by claiming the 4WD Hillclimb Championship title. Sam Miller again secured second place, while Karl Douglas rounded out the top three with a solid weekend performance.

MotorSport New Zealand extends its thanks to the Pukekohe Car Club for delivering an exceptionally well-run national championship event.