Vale Rob Lester MNZM

MotorSport New Zealand is deeply saddened to acknowledge the passing of Rob Lester MNZM — a remarkable servant, competitor and leader of New Zealand motorsport.

Rob’s contribution to our sport spanned decades, and few could claim to have influenced New Zealand motorsport in as many ways.

Alongside his late wife Wendy, Rob was instrumental in the promotion and operation of Manfeild for some 30 years, helping establish the circuit as one of the country’s most important motorsport venues.

His service extended to the governance of the sport, including many years as Vice President of MotorSport New Zealand, then known as MANZ. His extraordinary contribution was recognised with the Jim Clark Trophy in 1979, the MotorSport New Zealand Award of Merit in 1987 and appointment as a Member d’Honneur in 1998.

In 2001, Rob received a Palmerston North City Council Civic Award recognising his contribution to motorsport and road safety, while his wider service to motorsport was ultimately recognised with his appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

MotorSport New Zealand President Deborah Day said Rob’s contribution to the sport would be remembered for generations.

“Rob gave an extraordinary amount of his life to motorsport in New Zealand, and our sport is undoubtedly better for his contribution,” Day said.

“Whether as a competitor, administrator, leader or through his decades of involvement with Manfeild, Rob had an enormous influence on our motorsport community.

“He was one of those people whose contribution extended far beyond the roles and titles he held. Rob cared deeply about our sport and the people within it, and the legacy he leaves behind is immense.

“On behalf of MotorSport New Zealand, I extend our deepest condolences to Rob’s family and friends. We are incredibly grateful for everything he gave to our sport.”

Rob was not only an administrator and advocate for motorsport, but a passionate competitor himself. He raced well into his 60s and was a three-time New Zealand Formula Vee champion — testament to a lifelong love of the sport that never diminished.

Beyond motorsport, Rob made significant contributions to road safety through the New Zealand Automobile Association and enjoyed an internationally respected career in veterinary anaesthesia.

New Zealand motorsport is richer for Rob Lester’s lifetime of involvement. His leadership, passion and service helped shape our sport, and his legacy will endure through the people, organisations and places he influenced along the way.

Vale Rob Lester. Thank you for a lifetime of service to our sport.