KEY POINTS:
Marcus Gronholm
(Finland, Ford)
The 2000 and 2002 world champion spoiled his chances when he crashed in Australia last month. He has won three times in New Zealand and a record-equalling fourth victory here might be some compensation. Ford is chasing its first victory in New Zealand since 1981.
Petter Solberg
(Norway, Subaru)
The Norwegian, who was world champion in 2003, seems to have a perpetual smile. But the under-performing Subaru has at times had him close to tears. He won here two years ago and second placing in Australia last month has raised hopes that the nightmare is ending.
Mikko Hirvonen
(Finland, Ford)
Australia was grim for Gronholm but happy days for his 25-year-old Finnish team-mate, who recorded his first victory. He had some unhappy times with Subaru before getting back with Ford and should help deliver them the manufacturers' title this weekend.
Valentino Rossi
(Italy, Subaru)
The motorcycle superstar has just lost his first title race after dominating the two-wheel sport this century. He dabbled with Formula One a couple of years ago, but he says rallying is his passion. Could this, his second world championship appearance, be the start of a new career?
Dani Sordo
(Spain, Citroen)
A protege of Carlos Sainz, who won here four times, the 24-year-old Spaniard won Citroen's second seat alongside world champion Sebastien Loeb by finishing second in the Spanish round. He was also second in Germany and will team in New Zealand with another Spaniard, Xavier Pons.
Emma Gilmour
(New Zealand, Subaru)
The 26-year-old from Dunedin was second Kiwi home last year. She finished fourth in the national championship this year and contested the German WRC round. She gets the chance to compete against her partner, Glenn MacNeall, who is co-driver for Chris Atkinson.
