Young Kiwi Engineers set to race into the future this October.
Kiwi motorsport rally drivers and MITO Ambassadors Emma Gilmour and Hayden Paddon will be joining EVolocity’s Canterbury and Auckland regional finals to cheer on the next generation of engineers and innovators. As trailblazers in sustainable motorsport and champions of automotive excellence, Gilmour and Paddon will share their journeys and insights with students and encourage rangatahi to explore future-focused pathways in STEM and trades.
Reflecting on his own journey, Paddon said, “I’m really excited to be joining EVolocity students in Christchurch, back at my old stomping ground at Carrs Road, where my motorsport career started. I’m intrigued to see their innovative creations, and looking forward to speaking with them about what they are working on and their future visions. A lot of young talent is unearthed at these EVolocity events and it’s a privilege to see that in action.”
Gilmour, who will be attending the Auckland event, echoed the excitement, adding, “I’m really looking forward to seeing the creativity and problem-solving that goes into these student-built electric vehicles. It’s awesome to see young people getting hands-on experience and developing the kind of skills that will shape the future of our industry.”
EVolocity’s electric vehicle competition showcases the next generation of sustainable technology innovators across Aotearoa. This initiative is made possible through the incredible support of EVolocity’s generous sponsors and community partners. Rangatahi from across the motu are gearing up to compete in the EVolocity Regional Finals this month, displaying and racing electric vehicles (karts or bikes) they’ve designed and built throughout the year. From October 11 to 24, Year 7–13 students will put their engineering skills to the test in a series of racing challenges, driving the future of clean tech innovation.
EVolocity’s recently appointed Chief Executive, Jason Maraku, says, “Behind every one of these electric vehicles is a story of a student team solving complex problems, guided by dedicated mentors who have shared their time and expertise. This festival is a celebration of that powerful partnership and the bright, capable minds who will drive our future forward.”
Regional Finals Schedule
- Waikato, Rotorua & Bay of Plenty: Saturday, October 11 | KartSport Hamilton, Ōhaupō
- Nelson & Marlborough: Tuesday, October 14 | KartSport Nelson, Best Island
- Wellington & Manawatū: Thursday, October 16 | KartSport Manawatū, Palmerston North
- Auckland: Sunday, October 19 | Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, Club Circuit Track. With special guest Emma Gilmour
- Canterbury: Friday, October 24 | KartSport Canterbury Racetrack. With special guest Hayden Paddon.
All events are free and open to the public. Families, media, and anyone passionate about sustainability and youth innovation are warmly invited to attend. Events typically run from 7:00 AM (team arrivals and scrutineering) to 2:30 PM (prize-giving), with peak race action between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM—perfect for seeing our rangatahi in action.
