Stephen Dill & Adrian Sutton

📍 Warkworth & Point Wells
🚗 Nissan Pulsar – Class C

Sometimes all it takes is one conversation to change everything.

For Stephen Dill, that conversation happened during a COVID lockdown.

"During another boring evening over lockdown, AJ basically said, 'Do you want to buy a rally car?'... and the rest is history."

Fast forward a few years, and the pair are now the 2024 North Island Rally Series Class C Drivers' and Co-drivers' Champions, proving that a lockdown purchase can turn into something pretty special.

Like every rally team, they've collected a few memorable stories along the way.

"The funniest thing that happened was getting flashed by a female spectator at Rally Waitomo 2025... and no, it wasn't her breasts!"

When asked what they're looking forward to most about Rally Taumarunui, the answer isn't just about the competition.

"We're really looking forward to seeing another awesome part of New Zealand and experiencing the rural hospitality these places are famous for. Hopefully we'll even get to enjoy a beer with some of the locals at the end of the day! Racing on new roads is also a huge drawcard."

The pair also couldn't resist sharing a little about each other.

"AJ is a stand-up comedian... and Steve likes sheep."

We'll let you decide which of those is more interesting! 😄

Fresh from a championship-winning season, Stephen and Adrian will be looking forward to tackling the legendary King Country roads in their Nissan Pulsar.

Please join us in welcoming Stephen and Adrian to Rally Taumarunui, and be sure to give them a wave when you see them out on the stages! 👋🏁

Photo credit: Geoff Ridder