Silver Fern Time-Trial — Precision on Gravel
The world’s longest precision driving test on gravel. Maintain a predetermined average speed on closed-road stages with RallySafe timing and monitoring. Huge seat time, tight operations, 130 kph cap, and the same incredible route as the competition field.
How it works
- Average-speed targets are set per stage. Your job is to match them as closely as possible.
- RallySafe handles timing and compliance. You’ll see start/finish accuracy and infractions.
- Staggered starts on closed roads, same North Island route as competition entrants.
- Results are time-based: early/late deltas convert to penalties. Lowest total wins.
Vehicle eligibility
- Road-registered and WOF/COF compliant
- Well-maintained brakes/tyres, cooling and lighting
- Rally-friendly prep recommended: underbody protection, decent dampers, and safe seats/belts
Safety kit (minimum)
- Helmets (driver & co-driver)
- Fire extinguisher
- Safety triangle & first-aid kit
- RallySafe wiring kit & tow rope
- Intercom strongly recommended
Final requirements are published in the Event Regulations.
Timing & penalties
- Each stage has an average-speed target. Your elapsed time is compared to the required time.
- Early or late = time penalties. Consistency beats outright pace.
- Speed-cap breaches incur escalating penalties; repeated/serious breaches may mean exclusion.
Why drivers love it
- Massive closed-road mileage with lower prep cost
- Superb skills training for pace-note or competition rallying
- Same camaraderie, service halts and daily rhythm as the competition field
Who it’s for
- Precision-minded drivers who enjoy consistency challenges
- Owners of road-registered classics or special-interest cars
- First-timers stepping into closed-road rally environments
A typical day
Early start → warm-up and road-book → morning loop of stages → service halt and lunch → afternoon loop → car wash-down and prep for tomorrow.
Time-Trial FAQs
Is Time-Trial a speed event?
No. It is a precision average-speed competition run on closed roads with a 130 kph cap. Outright speed is neither the goal nor rewarded.
Do I need a roll cage?
Not for Time-Trial. A cage is optional; check the Event Regulations for any additional requirements.
Can I use a modern road car?
Yes, provided it is road-registered and compliant. Many entrants use classics (often 30+ years old), but modern “stepping-stone” cars are welcome.
What navigation is used?
Road-book with tripmeter. No pace notes required.
Ready to experience the Silver Fern Time-Trial?
Send your EOI and we’ll guide you through vehicle prep, kit and event logistics.