Two nearly century-old Model A Fords roared back to life for an extraordinary adventure across Zululand last week.

The 4-day ‘B-4 4×4 Zululand Adventure’, led by Kingsley and Ross Holgate along with Ballito resident Wayne Cody, set out to relive dramatic moments from the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, all while trekking in a 1928 Model A Pickup and a 1930 Model A Phaeton, both built from scratch specifically for the expedition.

“The trip was amazing; a lot of fun!” said Wayne. “It was quite challenging for the Model As, but we got through unscathed with no problems.”

The journey began beneath the Ultimatum Tree on the southern bank of the Tugela River, where local historian Dieter Lütge recounted how the war was sparked by a formal ultimatum delivered at that spot. The convoy was treated to a performance by the Qadasi and Maqhinga Maskandi duo and a braai inside Lütge’s museum-like shed, which houses hundreds of North Coast artefacts, including a plough once owned by King Cetshwayo.

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From there, the convoy of vintage Fords and Land Rovers pushed inland to Elandsheim near Rorke’s Drift, racing against looming storms. Guided by Phillip Voigt, the adventurers crossed the Isibindi River, pausing at rock ledges believed to have been used by Zulu warriors to sharpen spears before the Battle of Isandlwana.

“It was a tough, rewarding and meaningful expedition,” said Ross.

“The combination of heritage vehicles, dramatic landscape and powerful history made it epic.”

That evening, torrential rain battered the camp. Under a makeshift tarpaulin, historian Paul Garner shared the story of the British Army’s greatest defeat against an indigenous force. Bad weather prevented the team from distributing reading glasses to locals, a task they plan to complete soon.

The expedition concluded at Rorke’s Drift, where Garner brought the desperate British defence to life. From there, the team travelled to Babanango Game Reserve and on to Matatane Educational Camp.

Gathered around a rain-soaked campfire, the team reflected on their near 100-year-old vehicles and the enduring spirit of exploration.

“It was a wonderful historic motoring adventure,” said Kingsley.

“The camaraderie of the adventurers on this crazy motoring journey made it truly special.”

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