07/08/2026
Trading the drivers seat for the co-drivers seat this weekend!!
Let's go!!
Meet the Competitors – Matt Priest & Jess Parker
🚗 Toyota Corolla – Class B
For Matt Priest, rallying has been a dream since childhood.
Growing up in Timaru, motorsport was always part of family life. Matt and his brother spent countless weekends following the sport, inspired by local rally hero Hayden Paddon from nearby Geraldine and making the annual pilgrimage to Rally Otago.
"Watching Rally Otago every year growing up inspired me to want to give rallying a go one day."
As life took Matt to new places, he eventually settled in Papamoa Beach, but the dream never faded.
He began co-driving in 2019, gaining valuable experience over several seasons before stepping into the driver's seat of his own Toyota Corolla.
For Matt, simply making the start line was a milestone.
"Competing in my first rally felt like achieving a childhood dream."
Like every rally competitor, there have been plenty of memorable moments along the way.
"I've had some great times co-driving with Dan Haines in his Es**rt. Twice he's left his glasses on the roof before a rally! We always have a laugh, and he's been a huge help with my own driving journey." 😄
One thing many rally fans may not realise is that Matt has been helping preserve New Zealand rally history for over a decade.
Together with his brother, he has run the New Zealand Rally Car Database since 2013, tracking the history and ownership of rally cars from around the country.
"We try to keep it as up to date as possible and always appreciate people sending through updates when cars change owners."
Rally Taumarunui will also bring another exciting first.
"It'll be my first noted rally, and I'm really looking forward to the challenge at an event that's reasonably close to home."
He's also excited about everything the event has to offer.
"Lots of stage kilometres to get stuck into, and it's a great regional New Zealand event with plenty of character."
Joining Matt for the first time is co-driver Jess Parker.
"It's our first time in the car together after a last-minute call-up. The plan is to have a steady day and keep a cool head."
With a lifelong passion for the sport, a commitment to preserving its history, and another new challenge ahead, Matt and Jess are looking forward to taking on the famous King Country roads.
Please join us in welcoming Matt and Jess to Rally Taumarunui, and be sure to give them a wave when you see the Toyota Corolla out on the stages! 👋🏁
