The late 1950s to mid-1970s is viewed as the "golden age" for New Zealand in the sport and saw Denny Hulme crowned as World Drivers' Championship in 1967.

New Zealand drivers were absent from Formula One events from 1984 (when Mike Thackwell last raced) to 2017 (when Brendon Hartley made his debut in the 2017 United States Grand Prix).

After the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix it was announced Liam Lawson would race for RB Formula One Team for the remainder of the 2024 season, replacing Daniel Ricciardo.

In 1970 British driver Stirling Moss said "In terms of its population, New Zealand's contribution to the top echelons of motorsport far outweighs that of any other country.

He had his most successful season in 1960 when he finished second in the Drivers' Championship to teammate Jack Brabham, having stood on the podium six times out of the eight races.

He retired from Formula One and later went on to form the Tiga racing car manufacturer alongside Tim Schenken.

He was entered for three races that year but only started the 1980 Canadian Grand Prix and was unable to see the chequered flag.

[7] Graham McRae started the 1973 British Grand Prix, his only race in Formula One, but his Iso–Marlboro failed before he finished the first lap.

[9] Brendon Hartley made his debut at the 2017 United States Grand Prix for Scuderia Toro Rosso, substituting for Pierre Gasly.