In NZ, the silver fern is a symbol of bravery, sacrifice and allegiance, however, when ‘rally’ is added to the conversation, it becomes a historic 2WD marathon race with iconic vehicles, eager competitors and an unwavering community spirit.
The Silver Fern Rally is an iconic marathon rally with its origins dating back to the early 1970’s, or even beyond. It typically runs over seven days in November every second (even) year with more than 1050km of stages, plus about 1800km of touring. The course changes each event and fluctuates between the North and South Islands, with this year’s rally being held in the south.
The rally itself is part of the great trilogy of top historic endurance rallies, namely the R.A.C. in the UK and the Classic Kenyan Safari, with competitors from around the world, the USA, Africa, Europe, Australia and UK being drawn by NZ’s smooth but fast gravel roads over dramatic but remote territory.
There are two competition structures, each subdivided into four ‘cc rated’ categories. The Historic Trophy is for ‘Puka’ (or C.O.D – MotorSport NZ Certificate of Description) 2WD pre-1985 cars, and the Challenge Trophy which is basically for all other 2WD cars that don’t qualify for the Historic Trophy.
The vehicle entries come in all shapes, sizes and marques with many being jaw-droppingly desirable. In fact with the likes of Ford Escort RS’, Porsche 911s, Mazda RX-7s, Starlets, and even Beetles, the list is extensive and a spectacle all by itself.
International Silver Fern Rally winners over the years include Andrew Cowan, Hannu Mikkola, Jimmy McRae, with Englishmen Matthew Robinson and James Ford as recent victors. However, there have also been notable entries from New Zealand and Australia, Kiwi Jeff Judd was co-driven by former WRC star Belgian Stéphane Prévot in 2022, where the duo finished second.
The 2024 Silver Fern Rally New Zealand will start in Christchurch and finish in the historic Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu, a picture postcard summary of New Zealand’s glorious topography and heritage, the final terminus of an adventurous 2000km route close to Milford Sound. With 51 smooth and fast special stages ranging from fast forest to open prairie and even over a breathtaking mountain pass, the beautiful territory of the South Island has been described as the ‘best rally roads in the world.’
Kenyan Frank Tundo, 12 East African Safari rallies veteran (two as team-mate to our own Possum Bourne) once said “this is the most amazing rally on earth. These roads are made for rallying, honestly, they are incredible.”
In addition to the world-class roads, a great New Zealand welcome is guaranteed due to the warmth of the people, as the camaraderie of the rally has proved time and again. It’s certainly a rally experience to savour.
Dave McLeod
Motoring Writer
