Foreword

 

When Ivan and Beth Hodge first contacted the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) in 2014, we initially thought the Museum was being offered yet another vehicle which nobody else wanted.

It didn’t take us long to realise that this was not the case, and that Ivan, Beth and their Beetle’s story was not only unique but a classic example of Kiwi (and German) innovation and ingenuity in practice.

 

Our Museum in Auckland had been looking to add a VW Beetle to its collection for a number of years. This iconic vehicle was a common site and form of transport in New Zealand during the 1960s through to the 1980s.

 

Obtaining a Beetle was the easy part, finding one that had an interesting history was another matter.

The task became even more difficult when MOTAT expanded its strategic focus to include Kiwi innovation and ingenuity.

 

To successfully complete the epic journey outlined in this book once would have been challenging enough, but to do it twice in the same car is unprecedented.

 

At the Museum, the 54-year old Beetle will be showcased in such a way that our visitors and the future generations are inspired to become like the Hodges – trailblazers with a hefty dose of ingenuity.

There may have been three in their marriage but what a marriage it is!

 

MOTAT is proud to become the custodians of this beloved Beetle so that the story it shares with Ivan and Beth can live on, not only in the pages of this book, but also in our Museum.

 

Michael Frawley, Chief Executive Officer
Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT)
Auckland, New Zealand, August 2015