The North Island Rally Series (NIRS) proudly announces that multiple-time rally champion Hayden Paddon has renewed his partnership with the series through PRG and Winmax Brake Pads.
Discounted winmax brake pads for NIRS competitors
This collaboration ensures a 15% discount on Winmax Brake Pads for registered competitors, a crucial advantage in a sport where braking performance can be the difference between victory and defeat. Be sure to mention this discount when buying your brake pads this season.
And A Game-Changing Mentorship Opportunity
Beyond product support, Hayden is taking his commitment a step further by personally mentoring the best 2025 NIRS rookie. The first recipient of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is Carlin Leong, who, alongside co-driver Nathan Roa, competes in the Sub Tech Subaru Impreza out of Hamilton.
Hayden Paddon is New Zealand’s most successful rally driver, with seven New Zealand Rally Championship titles and a historic victory at Rally Argentina in 2016, where he became the first Kiwi to win a World Rally Championship (WRC) event. In 2023, he became the first non-European to win the European Rally Championship—a title he successfully defended in 2024. His dedication to developing young rally drivers extends beyond the NIRS, with his Paddon Rally Group (PRG) actively working to grow the sport in New Zealand.
We are proud to support young New Zealand rally talent and, in conjunction with the NIRS, help up-and-coming drivers. As the first recipient, we look forward to assisting Carlin with advice and knowledge to speed up his learning process. I have watched his progress closely, especially after his major accident last year, when the rally community rallied behind him. He repaid that faith with some outstanding results.”
Hayden Paddon
Carlin Leong: A Star on the rise
Carlin Leong’s rise in the NIRS has been nothing short of inspiring. After a serious accident last season, he showed immense determination to rebuild and return stronger, delivering impressive results that earned him the title of Best NIRS Rookie in 2024. Carlin showed his speed and control at the end of last season, just missing a podium spot at the Newstead Lodge Waitomo Rally. His hard work and natural talent caught the attention of many, and now, with Paddon’s guidance, his rallying journey is set to reach new heights. Keep an eye out for Carlin making onto the outright podium in the 2025 season.
To be able to link up with one of the best in world rallying is a huge opportunity, and I know it will accelerate my development in the NIRS and beyond. A massive thank you to Hayden for taking the time out of his packed schedule to support this series, and to the NIRS for making this possible.
Carlin Leong