NZ Classic Car

New Zealand’s longest running classic car magazine – celebrated its 300th edition in January 2016, an amazing achievement for a publication which began as a simple idea to put local classic car owners in touch with event organisers, car clubs and trade professionals. NZ Classic Car has been a vital part of the local motoring scene for more than 25 years and features unique and extensive classic motoring coverage. NZCC’s enthusiastic and passionate writers cover the length and breadth of the country ensuring extensive classic motoring coverage. Our coverage of New Zealand’s motoring heritage remains unrivalled, especially in the field of motorsport history, plus we include stunning photography, authoritative features and event reports from throughout the country.

NZ Classic Car

THE RIGHT STUFF-AYRBURN CLASSIC 2026

AYRBURN 2026 DELIGHTS GLITTERING ARTWORK ON WHEELS; PETROLHEAD HEAVEN • The 2026 Ayrburn Classic has established itself as the premier motor show event in New Zealand, marked by a fantastic turnout of classic vehicles and strong industry support.

AN UNEXPECTED INVITATION • Jonathan and Janet Paape have enjoyed a close involvement with the classic motoring scene for many years. Encouraging Jonathan to write for New Zealand Classic Car and then for both to join the Ayrburn Classic 2025 judging team has been a memorable experience.

THE BEST OF GREAT CARS • Ayrburn Classic 2026 produced a stunning array of classic automotive excellence. A magnificent lineup of cars thrilled all who took the opportunity to come along and experience classic nostalgia in an amazing setting. Some even went away with the classic of their dreams and a lighter bank balance!

SUCCESS FOR FOUNDING SPONSOR • Gloria and Jesmond Micallef operate the well-known Waimak Classic Cars establishment, a short drive north of Christchurch. They relished an invitation to be involved from the very first Ayrburn Classic, Festival of Motoring in 2025.

Reincarnation of the SNAKE • The Shelby NZ team at Matamata Panelworks has endured a long and challenging journey that has culminated in the highly anticipated public unveiling of the 427SC and firing up of its sonorous V8 at the 2026 Ayrburn Classic Festival of Motoring in Queenstown on 20 February. A New Zealand–built car with loads of character and potential

WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF Ingenuity creates a stunning Stingray • Sharing his enthusiasm with a diverse group of people over a four-year period helped bring Dave O’Connell’s dream to reality, resulting in this stunning Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

DORITOS DOWN UNDER WHY ROTARIES RULE NEW ZEALAND • We have an undeniably cult-like affection for the Wankel rotary engine, helped along by a deep-seated psyche to tinker, improve, and enjoy it

THE LONG ROAD Part 2 • In the 1950s, Jaguar’s Mark I and II models dominated race circuits. For over 46 years, Bert Govan has enjoyed the performance of Jaguar’s twin-cam six-cylinder engine at various events and still loves racing. He fondly recalls those incredible years of saloon car racing

FRISTSCORT THE ORANGE EXPERIENCE A tribute to a memorable Shellsport car • Motorsport and thirst-quenching soft drinks have long been a match made in heaven alongside long, hot summer days at Kiwi race tracks. Aaron takes a look at a stunning tribute Ford Escort, seven years in the making!

NISSAN’S ICONIC SKYLINE GT-R R34 • Hold a poll to find out which car the millennial generation coveted more than any other, chances are the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 would be high on that list, if not at the top

HISPANO-SUIZA KIDSTON A VERY SPECIAL CAR THAT LANDED IN NEW ZEALAND 61 YEARS AGO! • Kidston is about keeping history alive, and so is this rare Hispano-Suiza H6C, which has a long history in New Zealand. Donn Anderson details the century-old...