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We have a Crewman ute we have had from new and has just clocked up 50,000km. Unfortunately, it is 5 years old (almost to the day) and so is out of the official warranty. The problem is, cam timing chain has stretched/failed. the servicing has been done according to the guidelines. The ute has been taken back to the Holden dealer we bought the ute from to look at. Their response has been, its a pity, but it isn't their responsibility ie not a warranty issue. What is your opinion? Is it acceptable that a cam timing chain fail when the motor has only done 50,000kms? Do we have a claim on Holden even though it is outside the normal warranty?

As the vehicle is out of warranty by a couple of years, the manufacturer is not under any direct obligation under the terms of the warranty. However, given the very low mileage of your vehicle, you could approach the dealer or Holden NZ requesting some goodwill assistance.
As you are the first owner they may agree to contribute towards the repair.
Having said that, goodwill goes both ways, and the paramaters car manufacturers usually apply are;
Age of vehicle
Mileage of vehicle
Number of owners
Whether the vehicle has been serviced by one of their authorised dealers.

Assuming you meet all the criteria, you could request some assistance. In the event that they refuse to help, the last avenue open to you is to have the matter heard by the Disputed Tribunal.