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This model is of the Fun Ho! #57 Holden Utility in white with blue windows. This model is probably based on the Holden HT Belmont Utility (the grille shape changed in 1971). The Fun Ho! models with blue windows were released around 2005 for, and only sold by, a bookshop that had a branch in Porirua (NZ) and another in Australia [working from memory here, but I will confirm the details later when I find the boxed models I have]. Later still they were re-released by the Fun Ho! Museum being cast and built in the museum, using the original machinery.
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There are no opening parts on this model. All features are cast into the metal of the model. The model appears to be based on a Holden HT Belmont Utility (1969 to 1970). At the front of the Fun Ho! Holden Utility there is a cast representation of the headlights and grille. Both sides carry cast body lines and representations of the cab doors. The rear is cast to show tailgate, rear lights, and rear deck. Both front and rear bumpers are part of the base casting. There is no interior, however there is blue glazing on all four sides of the cab. All wheels appear to be one piece, black plastic, typical of the Fun Ho! miniatures of the time, mounted on steel domed axles. The base plate appears to be lightly plated. It is held in place by two machined rivets, one to the front and one to the rear. The base is marked "Fun Ho!, no 57" parallel to, and just behind, the front axle, "UTILITY" on the second line, and "Made In New Zealand" on the third line. |
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This is likely to have been a late issue, issued after 2005 due to the blue windows and heavy coat of paint (it is possibly one re-released by the Fun Ho! Museum). During its original lifetime (1971-82), 166,900 Holden Utility models were manufactured with a paint finish, however it is not known how many were released with blue windows in 2005, nor how many the Museum has re-released.
The scale is unknown but thought to be around 1:70. My reasoning is that the normal length for the Holden Utility was 184.8 inches (4.694 metres) and the model has a length of almost 2.5 inches (67mm) (4694/67 = 1:70).
Item: 3972