31 May 2023 – Rally Drive NZ, the iconic driving school and rally experience, has new owners. 

Rallying enthusiasts Sam and Emma Miller will take the wheel of the 23-year-old business on 1 Jun 2023, following a private sale in May. 

Rally Drive NZ, which was founded in 2000, by Hamilton businesspeople Dale & Maureen Perry, provides the opportunity for people to experience the thrills of rallying in a hands-on and safe environment, based in Maramarua Forest. It also offers Tuition and Rally Car leasing. 

The purchase of Rally Drive NZ, includes: 

- The Rally School, which includes Driver Training, Private Training, Hot Seat Thrill Rides, Corporate Functions, Rally Experience Course and Rally Schooling. 

- The lease of Maramarua forest, where its experience days and training take place. 

- Rally cars (available for lease) 

 

On the purchase of the business, Sam says, “Both of our fathers, Noel Miller and Ray Wilson, have been rallying since the mid 70’s and so Emma and I grew up around the sport, - its in our blood. We have always wanted to do something like this – something that puts our history and experiences into practice. Since it began, Rally Drive NZ has been providing amazing experiences for people from all walks of life, with everyone that partakes in the experience walking away with massive grins on their faces, which is so awesome to be a part of. We’re excited to build on Dale & Maureen’s legacy and bring the thrill of rallying to new audiences. We’re looking forward to doing this together,” he says. 

Dale Perry says he’s proud to hand the keys over to the pair. “The old saying goes, right time, right place people, after 23 years of running Rally Drive NZ is the right time to hand over the control of Maramarua, truly the home of rallying and Sam and Emma Miller know it well so they definitely are the right people. Maureen and I wish Sam and Emma all the success in the new venture, I know it will give them much satisfaction and reward as we have shared our passion of rallying with so many people both local and international and know Sam and Emma will do the same so wish them well in the running of Rally Drive NZ” he says. 

​

About Sam 

Sam, now an Engineer, has been racing since he was 12-years old, with numerous Class wins in hillclimbs and rallysprints to his name. A Motorsport NZ A-Class Scrutineer, and Driving Instructor, Sam has been actively involved in Rally Drive NZ as a tutor and is a member of the Pukekohe Car Club. Sam comes from a rallying family who’re all still involved in the sport today. His dad, Noel also works as a tutor at Rally Drive NZ. 

About Emma 

Emma, a nutritionist and photographer, has been involved in motorsport since she was born. First as a supporter, daughter of Ray Wilson, former FIA “A” seeded driver and still competing after 50 years and later as a driver. She’s dabbled in motorcarna club events and hillclimbs over the years, and today, captures the thrill and action of motorsport on film – a passion that led to a degree in media arts.