Its viewed on more of a worldwide basis than just an NZ basis, so yes, Japanese cars are indeed eligible. The reason for the eligibility list is not so much about playing God, but more so to protect the investments of those taking part. And, its not set in stone. Its easier to deal with a set of fundamentals when you know what you're playing with, than trying to plan for the unkown.

And the two people who've drawn up the list didn't do so with the intent to control who plays and who doesn't. They've merely done it because they have a vast knowledge of the various makes and models of smaller capacity cars that raced in period than the HMC directors.

It is a big list, and its unlikely there will be any surprises.