New Zealand to open the World Series of TER once again next season. For motorsport fans, it’s exciting news that the Otago Rally by Central Machine Hire in New Zealand will host the TER Series again in 2026, continuing its legacy.
The 2026 season of the TER Series, the World Series of TER, will mark the welcome return, for the third time, of New Zealand’s Central Machine Hire Otago Rally. This is the event where the World Series made its debut in the inaugural 2023 season.
The iconic world-class gravel stages around Dunedin, known and loved by rally fans across the globe, will once again host thrilling competition. Looking ahead to 2026, the TER Series will be spotlighted at the Central Machine Hire Otago Rally in New Zealand, as it is set to host the international event once more. In the previous TER Series edition, Hyundai New Zealand driver Hayden Paddon took victory. He then went on to claim the first-ever TER Series title at the end of 2023. In 2025, it was Ben Hunt who triumphed at Otago before being crowned the 2025 TER Series Champion.
Global television promotion, ensured by the dedicated TER Series production and media coverage, will once again highlight not only the sporting excitement but also the Dunedin region’s tourism, landscapes, and world-renowned rally roads. Notably, both the City Council and the New Zealand Government are behind the Central Machine Hire Otago Rally in New Zealand set to host the TER Series again in 2026, affirming global interest.
Luca Grilli, TER Series Promoter and Organiser, said: “We are extremely happy to have Otago Rally in the TER series for the 3rd year. Aside from the special meaning the event has for our series, it is great to return again to New Zealand. The stunning roads and backgrounds make it a unique location for sports and tourism, fully embodying the TER spirit”.
Roger Oakley, Event spokesperson, said: “We are delighted to be part of the TER Series for the third year. The TER team have a passion for the sport and showcase both the rally and our country, it’s a great combination. Our key partners are the City of Dunedin and the New Zealand Government, and they see the value of the promotion of our region, our lifestyle and New Zealand via the 25 minute global TV highlights package. We are excited by the opportunity to showcase NZ rallying to the world”.
The 2026 Central Machine Hire Otago Rally will take place from April 10th to 12th in Dunedin, Otago region, New Zealand, making it another milestone for the TER Series which will be hosted once again in the country.