Ford New Zealand’s 1963 MK III Zephyr is oiled, spruced up and on the road for the 2009 Variety Bash this week.
On Saturday forty vehicles prepared for the Variety Bash were loaded aboard the HMNZS Canterbury for a trip across the Waitemata Harbour.
Yesterday the Variety Bash was launched at Princes Wharf, Auckland before it headed to the Coromandel Peninsula. All this week the rally will visit towns big and small, from Kati Kati to Taupo, Maketu to Turangi, eventually completing the event in New Plymouth on Saturday 4th April.
“This is the 19th year the Ford team has been involved in the Bash — and it still hasn’t lost its magic,” says Brie Elder, Ford New Zealand Communications Manager and ‘Rat Pack’ bash Team captain.
“The Variety Bash is all about raising and distributing funds to Kiwi children in need — lending a helping hand and seeing the difference we can make in these peoples lives is truly rewarding”.
With 40 pre-1975 vehicles entered in the 2009 Bash, the annual event will be a demonstration of Ford vehicles old and new. The Rat Pack’s Zephyr will be joined by other vinatge Ford vehicles and all of the Variety Bash officials will be driving new Fords for the duration of the Bash.
“Part of our commitment to Variety is the provision of vehicles for the officials on the Bash — this year there will be a collection of the FG Falcon and Mondeo Diesel vehicles as well as Rangers, Transits and a Territory. The old and new Fords make an impressive sight on the road and people enjoy seeing how Fords have evolved over the years,” says Brie Elder.
Over the eight days of the rally, the Bash will visit schools and hospitals handing out numerous giveaways to thousands of children and tens of thousands of dollars will be presented to recipient schools, individuals and organisations.
Variety — The Children’s Charity uses entertainment events to raise funds for New Zealand children who are sick, disabled or disadvantaged. Since 1989, Variety has distributed more than $11.3 million to Kiwi kids in need.
To find out more about the Variety Bash tour or to make a donation click here to visit the Variety Club website.
