Women's Commission

Harriet Grace

Hi, I’m Harriet, a 24-year-old national-level motorcycle road racer from Christchurch, competing in the Supersport 300 class with Helicraft Racing. I started racing in 2022 on a Yamaha R3 I built myself, and since then I’ve worked my way onto the national stage. Racing is more than results for me – it’s about resilience, mindset, and pushing limits, which ties in closely with my background in psychology. I want to be the first female Supersport 300 champion in New Zealand and push into the international scene, but just as importantly, I want to help open doors for more women to step into this sport with confidence. Outside of racing, I’m the Junior Rider Representative for Motorcycling Canterbury and spend a lot of time supporting younger riders and helping grow our grassroots racing community. Joining the MNZ Women’s Commission is really meaningful to me because it’s a chance to give back, to advocate for women in our sport, and to help create the same sense of belonging and opportunity that’s kept me passionate about racing. I can’t wait to help be a part of the NZ womens commission, and show that women belong on the grid, as officials, and to be competing and winning.

Taylor McEwen

My name is Taylor McEwen, and motorcycles have been a part of my life since day one. Growing up with my dad, a well-known figure in New Zealand’s motorcycling community, I developed a deep passion for motorsport—especially road racing.

I’m actively involved with the MiniGP Academy NZ, where we’re dedicated to helping kids as young as five gain confidence riding road bikes. Our goal is to nurture and build the next generation of talented motorcycle riders from New Zealand.

On weekends, you’ll usually find me at Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon with my children—either supporting my 5-year-old as they hit the track with MiniGP Academy or connecting with fellow motorsport enthusiasts while enjoying every race we can.

Chelsea Karl

Kia ora, I’m Chelsea Karl – a photographer, architectural designer, and founder of Chelsea Media Co.

I’m a country kid that was brought up in the heart of the Far North. While I was completing my Bachelor of Architectural Studies I decided to take my passion for photography and turn it into something of my own. During the week I shoot real estate photography, write articles for Classic Car magazine, and manage a handful of social media pages. On the weekends you can usually find me trackside, whether it’s motorcycling, rally, circuit racing, drifting, or something in between.

My involvement in motorcycling began with classic motorcycle racing when a good friend convinced me to join their family on a race weekend. The event left me with a soft spot for the NZCMRR community, and from there I began building connections through AMCC, Suzuki Series, and NZSBK. I’d like utilise my skills to help promote the MNZ image, engage new entrants across the board, and improve the longevity of a sport I’ve grown to love.

When I’m not behind the camera or computer I like to play music, go swimming or train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, cuddle up with the cat, and continue my search for the best white chocolate mocha.

Melanie Smyth

A MNZ Accredited photographer since 2015, Mel has forayed these skills into establishing her own business. What started out as a dare has become an enduring passion for things motorsport related.

Based in Christchurch, Mel is often out shooting motorsport (track, road, speedway, mx, or vmx), almost every weekend. In her downtime, the editing takes centre stage, and with it the desire to train and assist other photographers get a foothold in the industry she so loves. Mel is an avid supporter of women in motorsport, and actively uses her photography to highlight the incredible impact women continue to have in this predominantly male oriented sport.

Mel has been a Motorcycling Canterbury committee member for 4+ years, this year taking on co-Asst. Secretary duties, and overseeing the Social Media team as well. Photography wise – being one of the NZSBK Official Photographers, twice, with good friend and photography idol, Kirsten Summers (Mad Love Media), remains a personal highlight.

Women’s Commission Members

Profiles to Come

Sarah Elliot

Letitia Alabaster

Angela McLoed