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Held on an undeveloped block of land situated within the Whangarei township, the Northland 4x4 Challenge was set as a ‘fun’ entry-level event providing a first step for up-coming winch challenge competitors, and a good practice environment for the more seasoned. Nine teams turned up from all over the North Island, three of which had never before competed in a winch challenge competition.

The event kicked off on Saturday with seven stages run throughout the day, with the invaluable help of a small group of volunteers including several local marshal’s, a group from 4x4 Challenges and well known competitors Owen Fillery and Dave Morrison.

The 4x4 Challenges winch challenge rules were used and marshal’s helped the three newbie teams to avoid penalties in an effort to help fast track the learning curve. Although they had their bad stages, they all put in a stand out performance on at least one stage gaining a respectable score, especially considering their lesser developed vehicles. One such performance of note, was by William and John from Kawakawa, gaining the fastest time on the figure 8 speed stage in their naturally aspirated diesel Nissan GQ.

Saturday caused it’s fair share of carnage, with experienced competitors Sam Baddeley and Mitch O’Brien forced to retire with an exploded winch, and several other teams with repairs to be made overnight.

Four final stages were held on Sunday including one mystery stage created by the stage setting team to take event organiser and competitor Darin Neeley out of his comfort zone.

The scoring was done using 4x4 Challenge’s latest high tech scoring system (a pen and paper) revealing a winning margin of only 2 points by Justin Wynyard and Mike Porter who also won in Rotorua earlier this year. Close behind in second place was the up-coming team of Keri Louie and Warren Adams who are proving they too have a winning formula and will be a team to watch at future events.

Although none of the three newbie teams entered into the top five, they all left with smiles on their face and having learnt a lot in what was a fast tracked introduction to New Zealand winch challenge competition.

View the 2007 Northland 4x4 Challenge results >

Other coverage of the 2007 Northland 4x4 Challenge
- 4x4 Action Magazine
- Offroadexpress.co.nz

Justin and Mike in action (left), and Darin and John attack a rutted climb (right)

Sam and Mitch (left), and Steve and Dion (right) in the thick of it

Aaron and Doug (left), and Sam and Yael (right) hit the speed stage