McLaughlin at home in Tasmania | Video

In addition to the countryside and climate reminding him of his native New Zealand, the 21-year-old has some vivid memories of his karting days at Launceston’s Archerville track.

‘‘I remember it well because it was the nationals over an Easter weekend and I got taken out on the final corner and lost the national title,’’ he said.

‘‘I raced here in 2007 and ’08, came third at the nationals and have not been here since, so it’s awesome to be back.

‘‘It has not changed one bit and it’s great to be back with all the kids and to feel like a bit of a role model to them.

‘‘I’m sure I will see a few of these come up through the ranks and be a co-driver of mine or beating me, so I’ll have to be careful how many tips I give them!’’

Like many V8 Supercar drivers, including Launceston’s two-time series champion Marcos Ambrose, McLaughlin cut his teeth on the competitive karting circuit and even claimed the Tasmanian title in 2006 and ’09.

‘‘These go-karts have a six-speed gearbox, so it’s the closest thing you can get without jumping into a race car, and that’s why I still have one. They’re great for speed and reflexes. Coming to a place like this, you almost want to rewind to those times because they were so good.’’

McLaughlin, who was born in Christchurch, grew up in Hamilton and lives in Melbourne, has made a major impression since stepping up.

He was the 2012 Dunlop Series champion and made his V8 Supercar debut in 2013, claiming two race wins and the rookie of the year title.

He won five more driving for Volvo last year plus 10 pole positions and fifth overall in the championship, and can’t wait to represent Wilson Security Racing at Symmons Plains next weekend.

‘‘We’ve always gone pretty well down here. We’ve been top five in the past but I think we can go a step further than that. We had a bad round in Adelaide but I’m sure we can get back on track.

‘‘Symmons looks easy on paper but it’s actually quite tough, with some tight bends and ups and downs where you don’t necessarily want them, so it’s a really good challenge and the crowd is always good there.’’

McLaughlin has endured a tough start to his 2015 campaign, with two DNFs in the first three races of the season on the streets of Adelaide, and sits 18th in the championship standings.