For as long as man has owned and driven the automobile beginning at the start of the Twentieth Century the more adventurous amongst us 'Auto Enthusiasts' have constantly strived to put a personal stamp on our vehicles. To set it apart; make it a step above the masses; give it the ability to perform beyond original design, in many ways become an extension of our own personality, individuality and ability.
In and around the State of California USA especially, where sunny weather, long uncongested roads and a number of vast dried up lake beds allowed these early 'Rodders' to test their modified cars which were easily recognised by their stripped down, bare bones appearance. Initially early engine modifications were few, a milled head, a second carb always with an unmuffled exhaust; the die was set, Hot Rodding had begun. !!
Like their owners, the vehicles have evolved into a more dignified and diverse group, to the point where it is difficult to actually define a Hot Rod. Hot Rodding is perhaps a culture as well as a description of a vehicle type, and a definition will vary from owner to owner. The most popular definition of a Hot Rod would be "a modified vehicle of American origin, originally manufactured prior to 1949".
NZHRA members constitute the largest group of special interest and classic vehicle owners in New Zealand. The vehicle types range from 1920's style cars such as Model T Fords to modern day vehicles. Most have been modified in some way to reflect the taste and style of the owners, however in more recent years many members have moved towards the trend of restoring those glamorous machines America produced during the 1950's and 60's as much as those building the more traditional "Hot Rod" based on pre 49 American body styles.
The New Zealand Hot Rod Association is an affiliate member of the New Zealand Assembly for Sport, which vigorously promotes the rights of all sporting groups.
NZHRA receives its delegated authority to conduct and administer Hot Rodding and Closed Road Drag Racing in New Zealand from the FIA (Federation International Automobile) which is the worldwide governing authority for motorsport, through its New Zealand affiliate Motorsport New Zealand.
Today's active Hot Rod enthusiast is not the often perceived young man of many years ago, recklessly driving a souped-up jalopy at breakneck speeds. While performance and individuality remain integral with Hot Rodding in the 21st Century, so too is refinement, detail, use of sophisticated and technologically-advanced componentry and construction methods, and innovative styling.
The original vehicles from which the finished product evolves are still the same as they were over half a century ago, although many are now fibreglass replicas. The componentry used in many cases also of a modern, high standard in order to comply with the stricter standards required of all road vehicles.
While young people are still, and we hope always will be involved, the average age of members of the New Zealand Hot Rod Association is in the mid-30's region with a significant proportion of members in their 50's and 60's. Partners and children are a big part of the Hot Rodding scene now in New Zealand just as they are worldwide.
Hot Rodders today come from all walks of life, with the highest proportion comprised of skilled tradespeople, managers and small business owners. Most are technically minded, and enjoy sharing ideas and learning from others like themselves, as in any other group or society. They also enjoy displaying their vehicles in order to enable others to share in their enthusiasm and affection for unique and individual motor vehicles.
Like their owners, the vehicles have evolved into a more dignified and diverse group, to the point where it is difficult to actually define a Hot Rod. Hot Rodding is perhaps a culture as well as a description of a vehicle type, and a definition will vary from owner to owner. The most popular definition of a Hot Rod would be "a modified vehicle of American origin, originally manufactured prior to 1949".
NZHRA members constitute the largest group of special interest and classic vehicle owners in New Zealand. The vehicle types range from 1920's style cars such as Model T Fords to modern day vehicles. Most have been modified in some way to reflect the taste and style of the owners, however in more recent years many members have moved towards the trend of restoring those glamorous machines America produced during the 1950's and 60's as much as those building the more traditional "Hot Rod" based on pre 49 American body styles.
Priority Insurance at special rates is available to members of the NZHRA for all vehicle types irrespective of the level of modification through a nominated insurance company.
Companies
identified as having significant involvement and providing superior services
and/or products have become recognised as Corporate Sponsors of the Association.
Premier sponsor is Strait Shipping for the Bluebridge ferry between Picton
and Wellington.
Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferry, Phone 0800 844 844 for Bookings and Enquiries. www.bluebridge.co.nz
"The New Zealand Hot Rod Association (Inc) is dedicated to encouraging and enhancing it's members participation and enjoyment of safe Hot Rodding and its related activities, to foster the development, achievement and success gained through involvement with unique and individual automobiles and, in doing so, positively promoting the sport of Hot Rodding to those outside of our organisation"
