What the New Zealand Silver Fern was created for.

The is what brings the spectators out. To see pre 1985 rally cars being thrown around out great New Zealand gravel roads. Back when cars weren’t focused on huge horsepower and computers, it was a simpler, lighter, and more spirited time. The Historic Competition is just for this. It brings out the old Ford Escorts, Toyota AE85s, Toyota Starlets, Mazda RX2 - RX7, Toyota Corollas, Mitsubishi Lancers, Mitsubishi Starion, BMW E30s, Porsche 911s…… and yes, a Lancia Stratos in 2024. If your rally car was in production before 1985, it then classifies for this class.

All vehicles must comply to FIA Historic status or hold a Motorsport New Zealand “Certificate of Description” (CoD) -or equivilant documentation.

The Historic Competition is broken into 4 sub-classes, and a competitor can only contest one class.

1. Class A: Up to 1300cc

2. Class B: 1301 to 1600cc

3. Class C: 1601 to 2000cc

4. Class D: Over 2001cc

   The CC capacity has to be the true capacity, with an allowance for a 1.5mm overbore. (Forced inductoin x 1.7, and Rotory is x 1.8)

The competition as a whole draws between 60 to 100 entrants from all over the globe. One similarity with all competitors and crew is their true passion for rallying

At its core, the New Zealand Silver Fern is a passport to driving your historic rally car through breath-taking, technically challenging gravel roads. It tests your driving ability and the resilience of your service crew amidst the stunning landscapes that defines our nation. NZ Silver Fern Rally offers a distinctive experience that showcases Kiwi hospitality, ingenuity, and camaraderie at every pit stop, service area, and overnight stay. Whether you require practical advice, spare parts, or simply some encouraging words, the NZ Silver Fern Rally family—comprised of both competitors and support crews—is always ready to assist.

In a spirit of collaboration rather than competition, NZ Silver Fern Rally participants frequently gather in each other’s service areas, sharing laughter and camaraderie at the cars' windows or during the event's downtime. This vibrant community fosters lasting relationships, enriching the driving experience beyond competition alone. It is a celebration of passion for rallying, motorsport, and the beautiful country of New Zealand.

Required Safety Equipment: Certified Roll Cage, FIA Seats, FIA Belts, Fire Extinguisher, 2 x Safety Triangles, First Aid Kit, Window Breakers / Belt Cutters, RallySafe Wiring Kit (purchased here Fitting Kits – SAS Shop), Tow Rope, FIA Fire Retardant Race Suit, Fire Retardant Underwear, Fire Retardant Balaclava, Fire Retardant Race Boots, Helmet with Head Restraint Posts, HANS Device (or Simpson), Driver requires Fire Retardant Gloves. Strongly suggest an intercom unit. This list is for the people that are looking at entering for the first time. This will be all confirmed in the Event Regulations, when these are published.