Contact Energy (Contact) has collaborated with world champion rally driver Hayden Paddon to support young driver safety in Central Otago.

Through a donation made by Hayden and Contact to the ‘Street Smart’ programme, another 40 local learner drivers will have access to the hands-on driver training programme run out of Highlands’ Motorsport Park in Cromwell.

The donation comes at a time when road safety for young drivers is front of mind in the region.

Reinvigorated in 2024 by motorsport entrepreneur Tony Quinn, the Street Smart programme was sparked by the tragic loss of Kelan Stroud, who died in a three-vehicle accident in the Cromwell Gorge in 2024; one month after obtaining his restricted driver’s licence.

The Tony Quinn Foundation and the Stroud family have since worked together to ensure Kelan’s legacy is about meaningful change.

“We are committed to saving lives by equipping young drivers with the skills to navigate our roads safely,” says Josie Spillane, Tony Quinn Foundation Road Safety trustee for Street Smart.

“Helping young drivers stay safe on the road is a cause close to the heart of our hydro team,” says Blair Croall, Hydro Engineering Manager at Contact. “Many of our people have teenagers learning to drive and some of our hydro team members (including volunteer firefighters) have been first responders to serious accidents.”

Speaking of the support, Street Smart Programme Director, Hayden Dickason said the charity was grateful for the support. “Every dollar helps us reach more young drivers and give them the tools they need to make safe decisions behind the wheel. It’s about turning tragedy into action and ultimately saving lives.”

Hayden Paddon added, “We’re passionate about motorsport, but also about road safety. Partnering with Contact to support Street Smart was a natural fit, especially in a region like Central Otago where driving conditions can be challenging.”

This collaboration with Hayden and his team began when they were granted access near Contact’s Clyde Dam to film a key scene in a rally documentary. Filming of the documentary took place in late October, with a podium celebration scene at Clyde. The production team also invited locals to take part as extras, further strengthening the community connection.