CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 78 YEARS
No. 386 February /March 2024
New Zealand’s Foremost Historical Motoring Magazine $8.95
BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A
9 418979 000012
1929 STUDE’ WORTH A VISIT BROOKLANDS MUSEUM
VCC NATIONAL COMMERCIAL RALLY
TRUCKS ON TOUR DRIVING OUR HISTORY
CRANK HANDLE CLUB: Anthony Wilson is seeking any information on a team from the 1960s, self-styled as the Crank Handle Club and in particular their discovery of a 1915 Calcott under a house in Crummer Road, Auckland. He writes: I understand the car passed first to a Mr John Irvine, then to Tony Leader of Te Atatu. All leads will be energetically followed up. Pleae direct all responses to Anthony Wilson Ph 021 227 8177 or willerby@xtra.co.nz PHOTOGRAPHS REQUIRED: Submissions of suitable prints and information are welcome. Post or email original photographs or high resolution digital files of historical interest with any available information to: beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz or Beaded Wheels, PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140. Laserprints/photocopies are not suitable. Photos will be returned as soon as practicable.
NATIONAL OFFICE
The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140 Phone 03 366 4461 Email admin@vcc.org.nz
VCCNZ LIFE MEMBERS Andrew Anderson Roger White Norm Dewhurst Rod Brayshaw John Coomber
VCCNZ MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE PRESIDENT George R. Kear 027 221 4332
president@vcc.org.nz
CLUB CAPTAIN SOUTHERN REGION Mark Wilkinson 021 168 6068 sicc@vcc.org.nz REGISTRAR Neil Beckenham 021 588 536 registrar@vcc.org.nz
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Diane Quarrie 027 333 1329 pastpresident@vcc.org.nz
SPEED STEWARD Ray Sanders 021 632 563 speedsteward@vcc.org.nz
SECRETARY/ TREASURER Vacant
EDITOR, BEADED WHEELS Kevin Clarkson 021 0270 6525 kevinclarkson@vcc.org.nz
Andy Fox 03 314 3763
mgmt1@vcc.org.nz
Murray Trounson 03 339 8830 mgmt3@vcc.org.nz COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING comms@vcc.org.nz ARCHIVIST Don Muller 03 385 6850
archivist@vcc.org.nz
Rebecca George CLUB CAPTAIN NORTHERN REGION 021 293 7714 mgmt2@vcc.org.nz Glyn Clements 021 0833 4081 nicc@vcc.org.nz Please note this information changes annually - these details are valid until the next AGM
VCCNZ BRANCHES A full list of branch addresses and contact details can also be found on the VCCNZ website at www.vcc.org.nz ASHBURTON PO Box 382, Ashburton 7740 ashburton@vcc.org.nz AUCKLAND PO Box 12-138, Penrose, Auckland 1642 auckland@vcc.org.nz BANKS PENINSULA 27 Showgate Ave, Riccarton Park, Christchurch 8042 bankspeninsula@vcc.org.nz BAY OF PLENTY PO Box 660, Tauranga 3144 bayofplenty@vcc.org.nz CANTERBURY PO Box 11-082, Sockburn Christchurch 8443 canterbury@vcc.org.nz CENTRAL OTAGO C/-114 Shortcut Road, Luggate, RD2, Wanaka 9382 centralotago@vcc.org.nz CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY C/- 448 Tukituki Road, RD1, Takapau 4286 centralhawkesbay@vcc.org.nz EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY PO Box 2168, Kopeopeo Whakatane 3159 easternbayofplenty@vcc.org.nz
FAR NORTH C/– PO Box 312 Kaitaia 0441 farnorth@vcc.org.nz GISBORNE PO Box 307, Gisborne 4040 gisborne@vcc.org.nz GORE PO Box 329, Gore 9740 gore@vcc.org.nz HAWKE’S BAY PO Box 3406, Napier 4142 hawkesbay@vcc.org.nz HOROWHENUA PO Box 458, Levin 5540 horowhenua@vcc.org.nz KING COUNTRY C/- 923 Taringamotu Road, Taumarunui 3994 kingcountry@vcc.org.nz MANAWATU PO Box 385 Palmerston North 4440 manawatu@vcc.org.nz MARLBOROUGH PO Box 422, Blenheim 7240 marlborough@vcc.org.nz NELSON PO Box 3531, Richmond 7050 nelson@vcc.org.nz
NORTHLAND PO Box 17, Whangarei 0140 northland@vcc.org.nz NORTH OTAGO PO Box 360, Oamaru 9444 northotago@vcc.org.nz NORTH SHORE C/- 7 Godwit Place, Lynfield Auckland 1042 northshore@vcc.org.nz OTAGO C/- 125 Forbury Road, Saint Clair, Dunedin 9012 otago@vcc.org.nz ROTORUA PO Box 2014, Rotorua 3040 rotorua@vcc.org.nz SOUTH CANTERBURY 19 Redruth St, Timaru 7910 southcanterbury@vcc.org.nz SOUTHLAND PO Box 1240, Invercargill 9840 southand@vcc.org.nz SOUTH OTAGO C/- 1931 Breakneck Rd, RD 4, Balclutha 9274 southotago@vcc.org.nz SOUTH WAIKATO PO Box 403 Tokoroa 3420 southwaikato@vcc.org.nz
TARANAKI C/- 7 Leatham Ave, Strandon, New Plymouth 4312 taranaki@vcc.org.nz TAUPO PO Box 907, Taupo 3351 taupo@vcc.org.nz WAIKATO PO Box 924, Hamilton 3240 waikato@vcc.org.nz WAIMATE 4 Harris St, Waimate 7924 waimate@vcc.org.nz WAIRARAPA PO Box 7, Masterton 5840 wairarapa@vcc.org.nz WAITEMATA C/- 8 Jean Place, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparoa 0932 waitemata@vcc.org.nz WANGANUI PO Box 726, Whanganui 4541 wanganui@vcc.org.nz WELLINGTON PO Box 38418, Wellington Mail Centre, Lower Hutt 5045 wellington@vcc.org.nz WELLSFORD/WARKWORTH PO Box 547, Warkworth 0941 wellsfordwarkworth@vcc.org.nz WEST COAST C/- 143 Ward Street, Cobden Greymouth 7802, westcoast@vcc.org.nz
Will we see you in 2026?
CALLING ALL VINTAGE CAR CLUB MEMBERS Our hard working team organising the Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring are dedicated to ensuring our next event in Nelson is well organised, great fun, and financially sound. To assist with meeting all of their goals they really need a firm indication as soon as possible that you are planning on attending. Official registrations are not open yet but if you are planning to attend there are two ways you can let the organisers know you are coming.
1
Complete the brief survey by clicking on the link in the email that was sent to all club members on 18 January.
2
Call National Office on 03 366 4461 and let them know if you are planning to come. Have your member number handy.
Your response to this request is not your rally entry, it is purely an indication to ensure the event organisers book venues of the appropriate size for the festival. Thanks for helping us to ensure 2026 is our best international event yet. Kind regards
George
GET MOTORING WITH THE VCC TODAY AT VCC.ORG.NZ
George Kear President, Vintage Car Club of New Zealand DRIVING OUR HISTORY
Responses close 10 March 2024
CONTENTS Issue 386 February/March 2024
FEATURES 10 12 Style and Class
Rescued from a Rubbish Pile
18
Brooklands Museum
12
26
18
Style and Class Behind The Wheel – 1929 Studebaker Director Six Royal Cabriolet Rescued from a Rubbish Pile Nick Rump’s Honda S90Z Restoration
22
20 Years On … a Reunion
24
2026 Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring
26 30
Brooklands Stuart Francis tours a legend.
Rally Snippets 30 Arrowtown Rally 2023 – Southland Branch 31 Windsor Rally – North Otago Branch 31 Now I know what’s in the shed – Otago Branch 32 Cams Southern Classic Festival 34 National Commercial Rally – Wanganui Branch 36 Rallye Monte Carlo – Banks Peninsula Branch
39
Marketplace
COLUMNS 5
From the Editor
44
Swap Meets & Rallies
6
VCC Branch Events
47
Trade Directory
7
Mailbag
48
President’s Message
9
Timelines
48
National Office News
37
Book Review
49
Awards
38
Archivist News
50
Branch News
39
Marketplace
62
Passing Lane
The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand Incorporated
Mountain Goat
COVER Beaded Wheels committee member Greg Price tackles an American - this time it’s Mark Dawber’s 1929 Studebaker Director Six Royal Cabriolet. See P12 for Greg Price’s article on this rare vintage American. Photo Greg Price.
National Office
Phone 03 366 4461 Email admin@vcc.org.nz
Postal Address PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand.
Address 12 Aberdeen St, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Website: www.vcc.org.nz
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
4 Beaded Wheels
Find us on facebook Vintage Car Club of New Zealand
The Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) is the worldwide organisation dedicated to the preservation, protection and promotion of historic vehicles and related culture. The Vintage Car Club of NZ (Inc) is a founding member of FIVA. VCC Life Member Rod Brayshaw is the New Zealand delegate to FIVA and also a member of the FIVA Technical Commission.
FROM THE
EDITOR
The true origins of horsepower revealed. A Talbot (England) circa 1908; model 4A or 4AB, 12 hp. A. E. Ogg and Mr Bloxsome returning from a bushfire with their car towed by the horse. Talbot motor cars at this time were imported by the Canada Cycle and Motor Agency (Qld) Ltd. Photo State library of Queensland.
In the last issue we announced the availability to members of a digital version of Beaded Wheels. I’m pleased to say that the uptake was rather larger than we expected so congratulations to all those techsavvy members out there who were curious enough to respond positively to the announcement. There were a few glitches, as expected, and we will hone the process over forthcoming issues to attempt to smooth the process. We had a small number of members who struck a problem of one sort or another but in most instances, we were able to help. Once they got their digital issue some decided that they didn’t want Beaded Wheels in digital format after all. No problem, we took them off the list. Some wanted to cancel their printed copy (and maybe hope
that they would have a reduced Club subscription) but that is not how it works. The digital copy is an extra member benefit and does not replace your printed version – all members will continue receiving that. Most of the feedback I have received is that members definitely want their printed version, but it is handy to keep the digital version on a computer for future reference or even on their smart phone so that it can be accessed on the go. Some members have suggested that different platforms can result in a better digital product, and while we have already had an initial look at those currently available, we will be looking again during the year at all the available options. To sum up then – digital Beaded Wheels, not everyone’s cup of tea, but to those who can
benefit from having it in this format – definitely a bonus.
Beaded Wheels
Correspondence & Editorial
Subscriptions
Publisher
The Vintage Car Club of NZ Incorporated The Historic Vehicle Authority of New Zealand ISSN 0113-7506 Vol LXXV No. 386
Typesetting and Design
RGB Design & Print Ltd, Christchurch
Editor: Kevin Clarkson Sub Editors: Judith Bain, Rosalie Brown,
Mark Dawber, John McDonald, Greg Price, Charles Rushbrook
Contributions Email beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz Phone 64 3 332 3531, PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140.
Advertising Enquiries
Classified and Display Advertising to: Email beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140. Phone 64 3 332 3531 Rate schedule available on request.
Back Issues Available on request to admin@vcc.org.nz
Of course, there may be those of you with email addresses that did not receive the invite to take up the digital offer. The reason for that would be that you have not yet given us your current email address! You can rectify this by emailing National Office at admin@vcc.org.nz and apprising them of your email details. They will then respond with the digital offer, and you will be in the system. I assume that most readers of Beaded Wheels have an interest in vehicles, particularly those over 30 years old. When I am having a philosophical think about cars (this happens from time to time!) I think in terms of the engine being the heart of the vehicle. It’s the engine
Beaded Wheels subscribers change of address to: PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140. Phone 03 366 4461, Fax 03 366 0273 Annual subscription (6 issues) $52* inc GST Australian subscription (6 issues) NZ$112* Other countries (6 issues) NZ$185* Digital subscription (6 issues) NZ$39 available from vcc.org.nz or issuu.com. *Payment by credit card incurs additional bank fee processing charge of 3%
that makes things possible, it complains if you push it too hard, and it rewards you if you are considerate to its needs. Regrettably I do not have this same feeling about electric vehicles (EVs). These bland eco blobs, all looking very similar, seem soulless to me, not that I am suggesting our old cars have souls! Perhaps the horse riders of the 19th Century felt the same way about the introduction of the motor car gradually taking over from their beloved horses and making them redundant!
Kevin Clarkson Editor Beaded Wheels
Copyright Information
The contents are copyright. Articles may be reproduced complete or in part provided that acknowledgement is made to “Beaded Wheels, the magazine of The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand Incorporated” as the source. Reproduction of articles must be at least 12 months after original Beaded Wheels publication date. Beaded Wheels reserves the right to digitally store all published material for archival purposes.
CLOSING DATES FOR APRIL/MAY
Editorial Copy 26 February 2024 • Advertisements 10 March 2024
Beaded Wheels 5
VINTAGE CAR CLUB BRANCH EVENTS
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
Don Gerrard, Branch reporter for Banks Peninsula, exercising his 1959 Mistral Sports in North Canterbury. Photo John McDonald.
FEBRUARY
5-7 Marlborough 9-11 Banks Peninsula
Vintage Only Rally Classic Motor Racing Levels 9-11 Waikato Motorcycle Tou 10 Auckland 51st Annual Veteran Run 10 Far North Northern Captain’s Run 10 Gisborne Three Rivers Rally 10 Gore Diggers Run 10 Waimate Wallaby Rally 11 Ashburton Car Show 11 C.Hawke’s Bay Gymkhana 11 Central Otago Kingston Picnic 11 Horowhenua British & European Car Show 14 Horowhenua Garage raid 15-17 Hawke’s Bay Art Deco 16-17 Nelson Moutere Hop Weekend 17 Horowhenua Auction 17 Nelson Murchison A & P Show 17 North Otago All British Day 17 West Coast Tour Stockton Mine 18 Ashburton Chairman’s Run 18 Canterbury OCBC 18 Horowhenua Shannon Car Show 18 Manawatu Veteran Rally 18 North Shore Posh Picnic 18 Rotorua Club Run 18 Taupo Economy Run 18 Waikato Club Run 19-21 Nelson Coast to Coast Tour 21 Auckland Midweek Tourers Run 21 Waikato Wednesday Wander 22 Central Otago Midweek Run 24 Gore Festival Rally 24 South Canterbury Open Day 24 Waimate Scooter Run
NATIONAL EVENTS
24 Wellsford Wlkworth Swap Meet 24-25 Canterbury Annual Rally 25 Auckland Club Run 25 Horowhenua Ted Green Motorcycle Rally 25 Taranaki Mini Vin Rally 25 Wanganui Sunday Run
MARCH
2 Canterbury
Brooklands to Brighton Run for vehicles 100 years or older 2 Southland Veteran/Vintage Rally 2 Wairarapa Stretched Gymkhana 10 Northland Gymkhana 2-11 North Island Club Captain’s Tour 3 Central Otago Club Run 3 North Shore Brits and Euro Show 3 South Canterbury Mid Island Rally 8-10 Southland Model 40 Convention 9 Horowhenua Gymkhana 9 Nelson Swap Meet 9 Wairarapa Stretched Gymkhana 9-10 South Waikato Irish Woman’s Rally 10 Auckland Sun-Autumn Tour (formerly Vitage Muster) 10 Banks Peninsula Loburn Grasskhana 10 Canterbury Rear Wheel Brake Rally 10 Manawatu Ruahine Ramble 10 South Canterbury Motor Bike Rally 13 Horowhenua Garage Raid 15 West Coast Waiuta 16 Horowhenua Swap Meet 16 Taupo Country Roads Rally 16-17 Wairarapa Rex Porter Rally 16-18 Canterbury Jim Toohey M/C Rally 17 Ashburton PV, PW Run
17 Canterbury 17 Gore 17 North Shore 17 Waikato 17 Wanganui 20 Auckland 20 Waikato 22-23 West Coast 23 Canterbury 24 Hawke’s Bay 29-30 Taranaki 29-1 Nelson 31 Ashburton
APRIL
2-5 Nelson 6 South Canterbury 6 Waikato 6-7 Ashburton 6-7 Rotorua 11 South Canterbury 13 North Otago
14 Auckland 14 Hawke’s Bay 17 Auckland 20 Wanganui 20-21 Ashburton 21 Wanganui 21 Waikato 26-28 Manawatu 28 Northland
OCBC Swap Meet Beaches of Whangaparaoa- #2 Club Run Sunday Run Midweek Tourers Run Wednesday Wander Scenicland Rally Annual Commercial Rally Club Run Maunga Moana Rally NATIONAL SI EASTER RALLY & 60th Anniversary Vintage & Veteran Only Run Post Easter Rally Tour Swap Meet Mooloo Meander Wheat & Wheels Rally Overnight to Ohakune Midweek Run Gerald Lynch-Blosse Motorcycle Rally Ladies Run Club Run Mid-week Tourer’s Run Motorcycle Trial Aviation Extravaganza Sunday Run Venturers Run Highland Fling Swap Meet
A valid Vehicle ID card (VIC) is required for any vehicle entered in a National VCC event. Visit www.vcc.org.nz for more information on how to obtain a VIC for your vehicle.
5-7 February 2024: National Vintage Only Rally
2-11 March 2024: North Island Club Captain’s Tour
29 March –1 April 2024: National SI Easter Rally
This list does not contain all branch events – Check branch newsletters for up-to-date details of smaller events. This column is compiled from the VCCNZ National Calendar of Events, and events as listed in each branch newsletter. Any deletions, additions, alterations need to be notified to Beaded Wheels
6 Beaded Wheels
by the Branch Secretary before 10th of the month prior to magazine publication.
While Beaded Wheels makes every attempt to check the accuracy of the dates published in this column we advise readers to confirm all dates with the individual branch concerned.
MAILBAG Beaded Wheels reserves the right to publish, edit or refuse publication of any item s ubmitted as comment. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily express the policy or views of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) or the publishers. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE
Am I alone in thinking the results of the FoMC New Zealand Historic and Classic Vehicle Survey are far too good to be true and the numbers are so fantastic as to bring into question the whole survey? The numbers are listed in the headline summary and are worth examining closely to see if the survey has any credibility. The principal number of $11.4b is attention grabbing. It is equivalent to every man, woman, and child in NZ each investing over $2,000 in historic and classic vehicles, an astonishing sum. It is interesting to follow the number trail that was used to produce these results. The cornerstone of the calculations is the 15,500 responses to the FoMC questionnaire, roughly 11% of the 140,000 FoMC members. A dangerously small sample of the organisation, not a random sample and probably a biased sample. Clearly not a good foundation to base any conclusion on! It also begs the question what type of member would complete the survey? Possibly those more interested in the value of their machines. This would account for the surprisingly high (optimistic) average vehicle values? The survey also concludes that there are about 279,200 historic and classic vehicles in the total NZ fleet of 4.5m registered vehicles, about 1 in 16 (other than events how frequently do you see these vehicles?). These vehicles average 3650kms a year and on average $9,302 is spent on yearly running costs. These numbers are light years away from my own experience, and those owners I have spoken to
wonder how they were conjured up? The purpose of the survey is to strengthen our ability to lobby government, to have our views heard and propose changes. My fear is the results are so fantastic that they will be easily dismissed. Stuart Francis Southland Branch
RESPONSE FROM NZFOMC PRESIDENT
Thanks for the opportunity to respond to the comments in Stuart’s letter. The over-riding points that I want to make is that the research was conducted by Glasshouse Consulting Ltd, one of New Zealand’s leading research companies with extensive automotive research experience; the structure of the research itself was based on the well proven UK Federation model; and the sampling processes used exceeded the levels required for statistical research accuracy. Picking up on some of the details quoted by Stuart, the $11.4 billion figure surprised even us, but I can assure everyone that not only is it accurate, I’m confident that it’s actually conservative, due to a number of assumptions we made in the calculations. Please understand that the $11.4b covers the whole historic and classic sectors, including the vehicles owned, owners’ annual expenses, the collections and operating expenses of public museums and private collections, the turnover of trades and service businesses associated with the sector, and more.
Similarly, the figure of 279,200 historic and classic vehicles was derived across three separate lines of determination: New Zealand vehicle registration data by year, the research we did with the New Zealand public at large and their vehicles (which suggested a far higher figure), and detailed analysis and projections using the FoMC’s data. Again, we used a conservative approach. The figures for owners’ annual expenses and mileages were derived directly by the survey responses, and we have no reason to doubt their accuracy, especially after hearing of the efforts that many put into adding up their numbers! Again for conservatism, we scaled back the FoMC member response figures (ie FoMC members actually spend more than $9,360 per vehicle per year) as we extended the data across the entire sector. I hope these brief notes help. We have no doubt that the research is robust, and well within required levels of accuracy and statistical reliability. Look out for the full final results of the Survey that will be published in the weeks ahead. I’ll be attending the Edendale Crank Up in late January, and happy to discuss the survey with Stuart in more detail. See you there! Garry Jackson President, NZ Federation of Motoring Clubs Inc
FIRST NZ PUCH MEETING RUBY BAY 8-10 MARCH 2024
During the 1950s and 1960s, dealerships in New Zealand sold a large number of Puch mopeds, scooters and motorcycles. In fact New Zealand has a very high density of Puchs which often comes as a surprise to European Puch enthusiasts. Best known are the MS and VS mopeds, the large RL and SR scooters and of course the 250 cc split-single motorbikes. With more and more Puch vehicles getting back on the road, maybe the time has come to organise a first get together with the hope of starting a new tradition. Not far from Mapua lies the beautiful Mckee Memorial Reserve, right on a very calm beach. The reserve has toilets, shower blocks as well as barbecue facilities and a playground. The Reserve would act as the central venue for all social activities, but for those who don’t want to rough it there is accommodation nearby. The weekend of the 8-10 March coincides with the Nelson swap meet which is on Saturday. The idea is to have a run on Friday, then a drive to the Nelson swap meet on Saturday morning for a couple of hours, followed by another run. I have set up a Facebook group (NZ Puch Meeting), so please reply there, if you are on Facebook, or you can contact me on 021 043 3707. It would be great to see as many Puchs and their owners as possible. Looking forward to seeing you in Ruby Bay in March. Kurt Ebrecht kurt.ebrecht@gmail.com
Puch party.
Beaded Wheels 7
A British example – the New Zealand one should be identical.
WHERE IN NEW ZEALAND IS THIS MK IV ZEPHYR 4WD EXUK POLICE?
Around 1968 the British police contracted Ferguson (Fergie tractor fame) to produce 20 trial Mk IV Zephyrs fitted with Ferguson four-wheel drive and ABS. The story is a fascinating one. The cars were tested on police duty out in the field — or rather, out in the streets. I understand just two examples have survived. One of those two is restored and is in Britain. The other is said to be in New Zealand. I believe the one in New Zealand is in, apparently, restored or rebuilt to original condition. But, no-one seems to know where it is. This car intersects with some research that I am undertaking and I am very keen to locate it and/or its owner. I have tried the Zephyr clubs, but without success. But clearly, these cars are unique, very rare especially in New Zealand, and someone must know of its whereabouts. Does any Beaded Wheels reader know of that car and how I would be able to locate it and speak with its owner please? I am available of 027 537 9491 or email tourist.times@xtra.co.nz John Stokes Member - Wellington
DODGE HISTORY
Many owners of vintage cars are curious about the vehicle history. But multiple owners and the passage of time usually obscures. My uncle George Culver of Napier purchased a near new 1928 Dodge and used it into the 1960s. The car was renovated by a subsequent owner and was seen at an old car event, probably grey. Family
8 Beaded Wheels
members familiar with the car remain. If any owner is curious I can supply some information and leads to more. The car is a four door sedan with relatively ornate moulding around the windows and originally had a two or three colour scheme; mustard beige and dark brown. Five bearing model. The owner did some work in Taupo during the Depression. On the steep severely corrugated grades of the Napier road the two wheel brakes apparently did not! Bob 021 147 2153
SHEDDING LIGHT ON BW385
I can add some further information about the photograph of Bert Mitchell and Ivan Wintringham, reproduced on the inside front cover of Beaded Wheels No 385. The photograph was taken in 1910 in Blenheim, a day or two after the completion of their pioneering expedition to prove the Tophouse route between Blenheim and what is now SH6, opening the way from Blenheim to Nelson and the West Coast. The mud-stained Alldays and Onions (note the spelling) has been stripped of all the supplies required for the venture: cans of petrol and oil; ropes; spare wheels, tyres and tubes; jacks; food and water; and tarpaulins (for covering the car and drivers during emergency repairs under downpours). Even the sack on the back of the car looks empty. There is a reason why Ivan Wintringham is wearing business attire, wholly unsuitable for such an expedition, even in more formal Edwardian days. Wintringham and Mitchell owned a substantial motor vehicle sales, service and engineering business in Blenheim early
last century. The splendidly named Ivanhoe (Ivan) Charles Kimberly Wintringham was my grandfather and I recall my late father saying: “Dad was chivvied out of the firm’s office by Bert to pose for the photograph. He wasn’t very happy about it as he had work to do, but Bert persuaded him it would be good publicity for the business. He managed to find a coat to cover his suit. He said to me, with a wry expression, that the reason why Bert was smiling and he wasn’t was that Bert had driven most of the rugged parts of the trip – the bullock trails and stream beds – while he (Ivan) had been outside at the back pushing.” Ivan Wintringham continued in the motor trade in Blenheim until ill-health forced his retirement. He died in 1954 in Palmerston North. Bert Mitchell became prominent in local body politics, serving a term as Mayor of Blenheim from 1950. Michael Wintringham Mem Horowhenua
SOUTHWARD’S LAGONDA
I enjoyed reading Issue 385 over the Christmas break. Greg Price’s story of Michael Hedgman’s lovely old Lagonda 12/24 made mention of the possibility of a similar car still being in the Southward Car Museum. I live in Waikanae, so it was a pleasure to visit the museum today in my MG BGT (I have an annual pass, as I love going there). Sure enough, there is an old Lagonda in their main display. It is a 1922 11.9hp roadster with a dickey seat. Here are a couple of photos, the information card lists the vehicle as a 1421cc IOE 4 cylinder engine. Scott Stevenson
LAGONDA INFORMATION
Following on from the article about the Lagonda 12/24 in the December 2023 issue of Beaded Wheels, I received a message from Mel Tapp, a long time member based in Otago, who remembered there being a trucked Lagonda in Milton
behind Read’s garage. Mel told me he knew of a Lagonda there from the mid to late 1950s in a row of other cars that were also destined for scrap (see page 14 BW 385). I understand from Mel that the Lagonda had a broken flexi joint which was the fabric universal between the gearbox and the driveshaft. See the photo of the truck that towed the Lagonda in from the Manuka Creek Gorge about 20k from Milton. The Lagonda later disappeared from the depleted lineup and Mel thought it had gone forever. He had never forgotten about that little car and it was often brought up in discussion between himself and his friendly mechanic. Mel tells me it was painted black in those days – which rings true as I have a couple of the original front doors in my parts supply which are hand painted black over the original green. Mel tells me he also knew the Annis family who were listed as a previous owner. Mel’s mechanic used to help him with his old Buick. Mel was most taken with the article about my 12/24 and he tells me it brought him to tears and made an old man very happy knowing the Lagonda had been saved. He’d looked out for one over the years but I guess as mine spends all its time in Canterbury
TIMELINES and isn’t motored much, it’s a rare sight on the road. I’ve invited Mel to see the car next time he is in the area and I’ll take him for a jaunt. Here’s an edited version of Mel’s story which he posted in the VCC Facebook group: “How I Helped Save the Lagonda on the Cover of Beaded Wheels
It’s not often while reading my Beaded Wheels that I am brought to tears by an article in it. The wee Lagonda took me back to a young Mel and his love of the motorcar. As a young boy in Milton I used to buy Carbide for my cycle lamp from Read’s Garage. Behind the garage were rows of cars hauled in by the large Studebaker breakdown truck. The row near the garage consisted of a large 1928 (?) Humber, which may have been an 8 cylinder, a Chrysler 70 in lovely condition, an Austin 20 which was a large car, I still remember its stirrup type door handles, a 1928 Morris Minor with its fabric two-door body and finally a Lagonda, which had been trucked. I was greatly interested in the Lagonda, the lovely alloy castings and the fact the fan was internally driven. It had broken a drive joint in the nearby Manuka Gorge. After viewing it many times I tried to buy it without luck. Forward four years and Mr Read was selling up and the cars were being carted away to the tip one by one. First the Humber, next the Chrysler, then the Austin. The wee Morris Minor had been sold to a friend and later came into my hands to be re-bodied. Again I approached Mr Read and asked “could I buy the Lagonda”?, and if not, would he please save it from dumping. I really pestered him for the rest of the week as it was close to dumping and there was only one row of cars left. Mr Reid was considering my persistent pleas, “Ok I will save it, or let you know if I will sell it to you”. I never heard from him and other things changed in my life. Forward quite a few years and when I went back it was gone and I had thought it had been dumped. Over the many years
I used to reminisce with my old mechanic friend about the car I had shown him many years ago. Imagine my surprise, now into my 80s, to see one on the cover of the Beaded Wheels. Upon reading the article I was overjoyed to find it was the same little truck that l fell in love with having been rebuilt, just as I had dreamed of over 70 years ago. I truly could not hold back my tears. All those years I had believed it had been dumped. My wish now is that my old friend John, who I used to speak with about this Lagonda, was still around to read and enjoy this article.” This was a nice little addition to the article that has filled in some history of the car. Thanks Mel for making contact and filling in some gaps! And thanks Greg and Kevin for the article. Michael Hedgman
FAMILY CONNECTION
A response to John McDonald’s article in Dec/Jan Beaded Wheels. I have often seen John’s name in the magazine as a photographer, not thinking he was my cousin, just someone else with the same name. I had just had my morning coffee, was home alone, and decided to sit in the sun and read Beaded Wheels. I was enjoying John’s article “Family Road Warriors” and, much to my absolute amazement, I discovered that John is indeed my cousin, along with the three Midgley boys in the bottom photo. In one photo my grandpop Les Midgley was about to board his 1923 Overland car, while in the other grandpop was driving with granny in the back seat with her fur coat on. I felt like I was looking at a photo of my younger brother Charlie in the car, with myself sitting in the back with the fur coat on. I do like John’s words “the bonding power of motoring adventures”. Christabel Blacklock Canterbury Branch
1949 2½Litre Riley
1904/
120 YEARS AGO
VETERAN VEHICLES
Veiled women and motoring companions. Shops advertised motoring veils so women could protect their faces from wind, dust and airborne bacteria. Doctors agreed veils were a wise precaution for motoring but warned their eyes could be damaged for playing tennis. An odd advertisement appeared in the Auckland Star asking for a young lady of means who was fond of motoring and amusement to become a companion of a smart, young married lady of position with a house. The successful applicant would live in and share expenses. Excellent references would be given and expected.
1924/
100 YEARS AGO
VINTAGE VEHICLES
Journalists covering the Scottish Motor Show drove from London to Glasgow due to the nationwide Railway strike. They chose a 23.2hp Studebaker Light Six tourer. Then they challenged themselves to cover the entire round trip of 800 miles in top gear. They succeeded at an average speed of 33mph. Better still only half a gallon of oil was needed to top up the sump, a quart of water and they recorded a petrol consumption of over 20mpg.
1949/
75 YEARS AGO
PW VEHICLES
Autocar tested the rakish 95mph Riley 2½ litre with the new 100bhp engine. With the extra 10bhp 50mph average speeds were easily achieved. On a straight road 72.5 miles were covered in 77 minutes. It was one of the few cars that would reach 30mph in under five seconds and 60mph in under 17. And this performance didn’t come with a huge thirst. Overall consumption was 20mpg with over 30mpg available at a steady 30mph.
1974/
50 YEARS AGO
P60 VEHICLES
British Leyland Australia were hit by the fuel crisis and dwindling sales. Hopes for survival lay in the P76 derived Force 7 coupe. Three models were planned, a six, a V8 Force 7V and a top of the line Tour de Force. Sadly it didn’t seem convincing. Critics argued the wheels appeared too small, the door was too short, but, said B/L, fold the rear seats down and two adults could sleep in the boot. Ten were built.
1994/
30 YEARS AGO
P80 VEHICLES
The roadster revolution continued. Mercedes-Benz launched their supercharged 2295cc, four cylinder, 193bhp, 227km/h, five speed, SLK (Sport Licht Klein) Kompressor roadster, complete with a steel hard top folding into the boot and ABS brakes. Mecedes aimed to provide traditional high standards of quality along with innovation, at an affordable price. Developments in the motoring world this month in history. Compiled by Graeme Rice QSM
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MOUNTAIN GOAT Words and photos Murray Knowles Over the years, I’ve purchased Beaded Wheels intermittently from our local bookshop. Thanks to a thoughtful Christmas subscription from my granddaughter, I now enjoy receiving regular issues. While I’m not affiliated with any car club, and don’t possess a vintage vehicle, your magazine evokes memories of a car I owned for a two year period from 1952. It wasn’t anything fancy – but it was my pride and joy. It all started off in a roundabout way with a couple varsity friends of my elder sister. They used to visit home smoking pipes and telling our family of their adventures of Arthur’s Pass mountaineering up the headwaters of the Waimakariri, Rakaia and Mathias rivers. To a young idealistic lad in the last year of high school the thought of Arthur’s Pass sounded pretty good and I was quite enthused about heading for the hills. After a lot of badgering I managed to get a family day trip over a Queen’s Birthday weekend to view a hut that was for sale
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in the area. Armed with directions and keys we arrived to discover that inside was colder than a fridge. The hut had been the shelter shed for the old school next door left over from the building of the Otira tunnel which opened about 1914. Over the years it had three bunkrooms, a kitchen with a old coal range but no water, and a bathroom complete with a bath and 40 gallon tank with a pipe out through the wall that had been tacked on. All this for £450! Grandma thought it would be a great investment and take care of future holiday destinations.
It took many visits over the years to get it comfortable but was ok in the summer. During our trips we got to meet the new national park ranger who never had a vehicle and asked Dad if he knew of anything that would do the job while he was waiting on the park board to get his Landrover. Dad said he knew of a one-owner old Chev. Arrangements were made and the ranger with a mechanic friend went to Christchurch on the train. After extensive inspection and a trial we drove it back over Porters Pass to its new home at Arthur’s Pass. The 1927 four cylinder two-wheel braked Chev
spent the next two years, loaded up with picks, shovels and hut building gear, driving up and down river beds like a Landrover. Eventually the Landrover did arrive and I lined up for the Chev as I had been a passenger with the ranger and knew the car quite well. By this time I was in the third year of my apprenticeship and, having had a spell in the army with compulsory military training, was quite used to double de-clutching with a crash gearbox. I was quite happy to pay £125 for the car and had it insured with SIMU. I had bought the car for everyday use, not a restoration project. Over time I did a few jobs, the largest making up a new exhaust system. One thing that had happened with the ranger which concerned me was that it had one of the cast iron pistons collapse. After talking to the garage next to where I worked they agreed to give the block a hone out and fit alloy pistons. They also fitted a Vanguard carburettor, this setup gave me about 25mpg. Christmas was coming up and my girlfriend’s elder sister invited us to join their party in a hired ‘49er Ford for a camping trip to Glendhu Bay, Lake Wanaka. I said we would come along in the Chev, they reckoned it wouldn’t make the distance. The others set off with a grossly over loaded roof rack and their four passengers. While descending the southern slopes of the Lindis Pass the roof rack detached amid the rough corrugations, resulting in the driver’s quarter window being shattered. The aftermath was a chaotic scene, with debris scattered down the road, blending into the dusty landscape. The Chev with all the camping gear and its three passengers, emerged unscathed.
After a few days at Glendhu we decided on a tramp up the Matukituki valley to the Aspiring hut. Once there it rained solidly for two days, and eventually after a day of sunshine again we decided to walk back to the car park. Driving out we found several small side steams were a bit much for the ‘49er, but these proved no problem for the Chev. The only issue was the Chev had external brake bands which meant you had to stay alert as you had no brakes until they dried out, (just the same as a wet day in the city). A bit of a challenge but all in all we had an uneventful trip home and the old car never missed a beat. About Easter I packed up and went to Waimate to work for my brother-in-law driving tractors. For about six months the Chev was mostly just a work truck and with several trips back and forth to Christchurch. While at Waimate my sister taught herself to drive practising along the steep narrow road where we lived. One day she managed to change down from top gear into reverse, neatly removing the centre of the clutch plate! As I was coming home with my brother-in-law we came upon the car sitting on the side of the road. It didn’t take long to diagnose the problem and decide to tow it home. A call put through to Blackwell Motors in Christchurch soon had a plate on its way. The only other time it stopped was one Friday night on the way to Arthur’s Pass. The engine died on the top of Porters Pass, we coasted down to Lake Lyndon and still couldn’t get it to fire. I diagnosed the coil. A guy picked me up in a new Austin A40 and dropped me off at Springfield (22 kms away) where I managed to find the garage owner who was able to set me up. I had just started the long walk back when a young shepherd from Flockhill Station picked me up in a Model A Ford. According to my passengers the road had been empty with no other vehicles going through. We fitted the coil and were soon on our way again. After Christmas my fiance and I were getting married and we needed money to help pay off the section we had purchased for our first house, sadly the Chev had to go. Once sold though we found we couldn’t do without a car and finished up buying a 1936 Singer Bantam. What huge mistake that was – but that’s another story. To this day I still wish we had kept the 1927 Chevrolet Capitol. Over the two years I owned the Chev it did over 10,000 miles, never had a puncture with those skinny tyres and cut through snow without chains and Porters Pass was my only breakdown. Beaded Wheels 11
HIN BE
D THE WHE EL
STYLE AND CLASS
Mark Dawber’s 1929 Studebaker Director Six Royal Cabriolet 12 Beaded Wheels
Words and photos by Greg Price, additional photos by Mark Dawber
Style and Class, is what Studebaker’s General Manager Albert Erskine said was lacking in cars back in 1926. Mark’s car has this in spades, but this ain’t no trailer queen, rather it is a very useable classic. One of the perks of penning these ‘Behind the Wheel’ articles, is that I get to learn new stuff every time, and getting behind the wheel of Mark’s Studebaker was no exception. In the first instance I wanted to describe it as a cabriolet coupe, except that the roof didn’t fold down. Not only that but Studebaker never even described it as being a two-seater car at all. It would seem that, back in the day, body style naming was (to quote Mark) ‘very fluid’. Whether or not that meant that the designers had been drinking, is debatable. Where I come from, a two seater car is a coupe, (or a ‘Sports’ in the case of a Morris 8) and a two-seater car with a fabric top that looks like it should fold down, is a cabriolet, except in this case, it is neither. But whatever the idiosyncrasies are, this is still a pretty rare vehicle. For instance, Mark estimates that there were less than 1,000 of these cabriolets made back in 1928, and this example is just one of only two right-hand drive (RHD) models imported. This is what happens when you make a car in America, but don’t import it into New Zealand until mid-December 1928, as it will unlikely sell until the next year – in this case 1929. But before we dig deeper into the New Zealand history of Mark’s car, let’s learn a bit more about Studebaker, that like me, many of you probably didn’t know. It would seem that much of the credit for cars like Mark’s can be attributed to that fellow named Albert Erskine (that’s Erskine, not Einstein.)
EARLY AMERICAN CAR MANUFACTURING HISTORY First notable bit of factual information I learned was that the Studebaker name originated in Germany. The Studebaker family descend from Solingen, Germany, and they arrived in America at the port of Philadelphia on 1 September, 1736, on the ship Harle, from Rotterdam, Netherlands. This included Peter Studebaker and his wife Anna Margetha Studebaker, Clement Studebaker (Peter’s brother) and his wife, Anna Catherina Studebaker and Heinrich Studebaker (Peter’s cousin). If you want to know more of the fascinating history of Studebaker, then have a squiz on the interweb. According to Mark’s well-thumbed 1982 copy of The Standard Catalogue of American Cars 1805-1942, about halfway through an article about Studebaker, is a very important sentence which says in regard to one Albert Erskine, who had taken over as manager in 1915, – “It was in 1926, too, that Albert Erskine noticed something was missing from the South Bend, Indiana facility – style and class.” Mark’s particular model was the first to actually address this lack of ‘class and style”. Prior to that Studebaker were very busy selling (around 100,000 a year) strong and reliable, but rather plain, cars. They had a strong export market, selling cars in many countries.
Beaded Wheels 13
Put simply, for the second half of the 19th century they were very big into horse drawn vehicles – one of the largest makers in the world. They became interested in self-propelled vehicles very late in the 19th century and decided to go electric. They went with designs from Thomas Edison – a range of vehicles from small runabouts to large trucks but they built only 1,841 over a ten year period – 1902-12. They continued to build horse drawn stuff until WWI. (In early January 2024 there was a reference on a Studebaker Facebook page to the factory declaring that they would build no more wagons after 1921) They saw the future was in petrol cars and had Garford build chassis which they bodied themselves. There was a complicated period from 1908 to 1912 when Everitt, Metzger and Flanders were involved (producing EMF and Flanders cars), but from 1913 their cars were simply Studebakers in four and six cylinder versions. A redesigned version of the early six, with a detachable head, remained in production as the Big Six until 1928. Meantime there was a new, smaller, six for 1920 and Mark’s model is descended from that one, beginning as the 207 cid (cubic inch displacement) Light Six, then the 242 cid Standard Six, and then renamed the Dictator in 1927. The export cars were sold as Directors. The engine was completely redesigned for 1931 and that line of engines ran for many years after that. Researching Studebakers of the late 1920s is difficult due to the many ongoing changes to the models. Mark’s car is a model GE which was built from late 1927 to late 1928 and went through two major redesigns during that time. Not helping the situation is that there are no surviving detailed production records from any year before 1935. Mark’s example is what is regarded as the Third Design of the series and they built 22,000 in a range of body styles of these between June and October of 1928 and the factory decreed that these were to be sold as 1929 models. Mark’s coupe (there, I’ve sneaked that word in.) is one of only two imported by The Tourist Motor Company of Hastings. They both arrived in Napier on the ship Canadian Highlander on 15 December 1928. One was sold immediately, but Mark’s one remained in stock until 30 July 1930, probably as the dealer principal’s personal vehicle, as often happened back then. Mark’s car is body number 457 and the only known restored one in the US has a body number in the 600s, which would seem consistent with the estimated number manufactured.
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THE NEW ZEALAND HISTORY Interestingly, this car is a real earthquake survivor, having endured the 3 February 1931 Napier quake, which demolished most of Napier. Fortunately it missed all the Christchurch earthquakes as it did not come to Christchurch until 2020. In 1938 the car changed hands to another custodian until 1956, and then there were a couple more owners until 1970, when the previous owner to Mark came into possession of it. It remained in that person’s care until 1990, during which time it was restored. It remained in his ownership until his death – not exactly sure when that was but the car was last registered in 2012. Mark’s family has some Studebaker history. His grandparents had two Studebakers – a 1917 six-cylinder example in the 1920s, and a 1924 Big Six in the 1930s, so it wasn’t out of the ordinary that Mark would eventually hanker after the marque, as his classic car of choice. He grew up with the 1934 Buick and his mother’s 1937 Austin 7, both of which he drove to school, his grandfather’s 1956 Australian-built DeSoto (sadly long gone) – he was 16 when his grandfather had a hip operation so he drove his grandparents around in it for some time, and the 1955 Skoda 1200 which is still ‘buried’ behind the Ferguson TEA tractor in one of Mark’s sheds. So, when the nephew of the late previous owner listed the Studebaker on TradeMe, and given it had been restored, Mark would’ve been silly to turn it down. Given that the restoration occurred at the very least 34 years ago, the car still presents in really great, drivable condition. There have been no modifications to the mechanicals (save for the ‘state of the art petrol gauge’) and it gets along at a respectable 45mph. From the original paperwork that Mark has in his possession, it would seem that the original number plate was 59 082 (1930-31 issue), which would have been white letters on a black background, with a white colon between the 9 and the 0. An earlier permanent plate, CB3588, would have been issued in 1964-65 when the permanent black and silver plates came into being. Its current number plate would have been issued post restoration in 1990. Fortunately the previous owner would have avoided all that re-certification mumbo jumbo and simply visited the post office and renewed the registration and scored new plates.
if in doubt, stamp on them all!
The other one.
THE TEST DRIVE Over the years I’ve driven most makes of cars, and even owned a couple with the dreaded crash gearbox (non-synchromesh, for the unenlightened) which means that one has to double-de-clutch at just the right speed before engaging the next gear, to minimise graunching the gears. Which is fine if it is your own car, but I tend to try to avoid ruining someone else’s pride and joy, if I can avoid it. Thus, as Mark’s Studebaker had a crash box, I opted to be the passenger while he motored us around the estate, and I took notes. I did however get behind the wheel to move it a couple of times during the photoshoot, so I can claim to have driven it, albeit not very far. Regardless of who is driving, the instrument cluster is typically placed in the centre of the flat dashboard, and each gauge is square – two smaller ones on the outer and two larger ones in the centre. The gauges include a temperature gauge, a speedometer and odometer, a combined amp meter and oil pressure gauge (that’s one above the other) and a blank space for the fuel gauge, which is absent from the otherwise fine array. It would seem that rocking horse manure is easier to locate than this particular type of fuel gauge. Thus the fuel level is presently determined with a ‘state of the art’ suitably shortened length of broom handle inserted into the fuel filler orifice at the rear. Pride of place at the centre top of the dashboard is the original New Zealand brass dealership badge (The Tourist Motor Company of Hastings), and the windscreen features twin overhead electric wipers. A later addition probably during restoration – as it most likely had a single vacuum operated wiper originally. Halfway down the steering shaft, is the ignition switch, which is similar to
many other American car ignition switches, but has a neat little label that reads ‘locked’ when in the off position. Once unlocked, the small switch adjacent to the key can be switched on. On the floor are three pedals – the large left one is the clutch, the large right one is the brake, and the centre small round one is the accelerator, which is perilously close to the brake pedal. And just to complicate matters the round foot switch that looks like a dip switch, isn’t. It’s the starter button. Even more reason for me not to venture out in this at night! There is another button between the starter and clutch – a non-original accessory dip switch of the type commonly seen on many cars, just to confuse me further. Suspension wise, the ride around the estate was surprisingly comfortable, which was probably a combination of the actual suspension and the seat upholstery. It might also have something to do with the fact that the spokes on the wheels are welded in place? And forget about stealing any of its rare hub caps. The wheel must be removed in order to remove the hubcaps, as they are retained by tabs on the inside of the hub. Visibility is good courtesy of the large windows. Interestingly, the doors on this coupe (there, I’ve used that word again.) are interchangeable with the four-door sedan. The fabric top, which I’ve already indicated cannot be lowered like a convertible / cabriolet, does have a rear window that can be lowered to facilitate conversations with the mother-in-law seated in the rumble seat. Bearing in mind the restoration was carried out over 34 years ago, the car is still in amazing condition – and it had recently completed the 2023 Irishman Rally, with number one son, Will, at the wheel. There
Beaded Wheels 15
1965 Pontiac Bonneville
were some great action shots showing the Studebaker plunging into one of the many rivers encountered on route to the finish. The car starts well, and I found the gearbox was no problem starting from parked, but as I never got to second gear, I can’t comment on the shifting. However suffice to say, Mark didn’t have any difficulty in executing noiseless changes, when we later went for a hoon around the block. And as is normal in these classic oldies, it has the ‘armstrong’ power-steering. As you can ascertain from the photos, this car looks quite outstanding, especially with its twin side-mounted spare wheels – a ‘must-have’ on any early American car. They certainly add the ‘style and class’ Mr Erskine seemingly wanted back in the day. Situated just forward of the rear mudguard, this car also sports what purportedly is the fixture for stashing your golf clubs, but given the era that the car hails from, I like to think of it as the place to stash those Thompson submachine guns. Remember that TV Series The Untouchables with Elliot Ness? Presumably the shooter would be perched in the dickey seat, as the weaponry could be more easily accessed from there? If this was mine, what would I change? I think it needs whitewalls! Check out the photo of the only other known restored survivor in America. However Mark has no plans to add whitewall tyres and he politely declined my offer to paint them on with my old tin of period Holts whitewall tyre paint.
UNDER THE HOOD Unlike modern cars today, everything is easily accessible from either side. From the side mounted water pump to the elaborate linkage for the hand throttle and accelerator which runs from the steering box, over the top of the motor to the updraught carburettor on the other side. Note also the pedal height adjusters. The spark plug leads are also enclosed within a tube across the top of the engine, so there is no excuse for messing up the firing order in the event of having them all disconnected.
OTHER STABLEMATES The Studebaker shares a garage with Mark’s 1965 Pontiac Bonneville, which I got to drive on the day. Prior to my visit, Mark had taken the Stude to Classic Workshop, where his son Will works, where it had the long overdue pin striping done to the original factory specification, and the paint had to dry overnight. So the first task on the day was to go fetch it. While Mark drove the Stude home to his place, I got to slide behind the wheel of his left-hook Bonneville. What was interesting, to me anyway, was how I’d only travelled about 25 yards down the road before I felt completely at ease (once again) with driving from the passenger side. Having previously owned a 1959 Cadillac Fleetwood (nearly 17 years) and a 1962 Thunderbird during the earthquakes, I was 16 Beaded Wheels
completely at ease – and enjoying myself immensely on the way back to Mark’s. (I didn’t do any burnouts, honest.) Elsewhere on Mark’s estate, are various sheds housing three other Studebaker sedans (or rather, the remains of three) that provide parts when required – except fuel gauges, it would seem. With son Will’s, and younger son Harry’s, interest in things car related, there are many other gemsonics*, mainly 1970s and ‘80s cars of Japanese origin, but also a 1982 Canadianmarket Honda CB450T Hawk, the only example known of in NZ. And the alert reader will have also spotted the unrestored, as it was parked up, 1934 Buick, the Australian Holden-bodied model which his grandparents bought in 1946, in the old stable in the background to one of the photos. I couldn’t resist including it in the photoshoot, as it raised the conundrum of the older, restored car being the focus of all the attention while the more modern car, with its significant family history sits sadly, albeit neglected, in the background.
WHAT’S NEXT? Mark and son Will plan to drive the Stude up to Napier for the 2024 Art Deco Rally in the third week of February. In a way, it will sort of be like the car is ‘returning home’ as Hawke’s Bay was its first New Zealand location. There had been plans to attend in 2021, but that didn’t eventuate, and the 2022 and 2023 events were cancelled. However it’s all on for this year, with son Will being the on board mechanic and co-driver. Having seen this car in almost daily use, I’ve every confidence that it will make to trip to Napier and back, no problems.
THE NEXT PROJECT? To quote Mark, “I’m just going to enjoy what I’ve got.” Once again, I’m indebted to Mark for allowing me to spend some quality time in and about this classic piece of American motoring history (and the hoon in the Pontiac.) – Even without whitewalls, on either of them! * Gemsonics, means a made up description of something really rare, interesting, and unusual.
SPECIFICATIONS Engine:
Side valve, six cylinder, 3 3 ⁄ 8 ” x 4 ½”, 242 cid (4 litres) 68 bhp@2800 rpm Gearbox: 3-speed, non-synchromesh Brakes: 4-wheel rod-operated Bendix three shoe type Wheels: 20 inch wires Tyres: 5.25/5.50 x 20 cross ply tyres Suspension: Leaf spring with shock absorbers Steering: Worm & peg Wheelbase: 113” Rear axle ratio: 4.6:1 with 4.3:1 optional – that is being fitted for the trip north) Overall Rating: PGR (Pretty good, really!)
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RESCUED FROM A RUBBISH PILE Honda S90Z Restoration
Words and photos Nick Rump, North Shore Branch
Nick Rump acquired a Honda from TradeMe, on inspection the state of the bike required more attention than he had anticipated. Undaunted and in true VCC style he didn’t regard his lack of motorcycle restoration experience as a drawback – far from it. I was never a motorbike person. Probably like many teenagers my mother promised to “put an axe through” any motorbike I brought home so I started my driving life with a 1962 Vauxhall Victor which I wish I still had. I got into motorbike restoration by a series of linked events, the first being my teenage sons wanting to try trail bike/motocross riding. My only experience with motorbikes was in the early 1970s when I was a farm hand. In 1974 my boss bought a brand new Honda CT90 and this became my daily work horse. I had horses as well but the CT90 was a great machine for getting around the farm quickly and could just about go anywhere The unrestored S90Z as received from a TradeMe purchase. The Honda Sport 90, Super 90, or S90, was a 90cc ultra lightweight new design motorcycle, the engine based on the Honda Super Cub was made from 1964 to 1969. From what I gather, the S90Z is a later (‘66 onward) model made in Indonesia after a company there bought reproduction rights from Honda. It is a more deluxe model, with more chrome.
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a horse could go. Being a step-through with centrifugal clutch I figured this would be the ideal machine for the boys to learn on and develop some riding skills. The next step was TradeMe. I ended up buying three CT90s – one for each of us. The first one was a very tidy, original condition 1969 K0 and two K3s. The boys later progressed to real trail bikes – a Yamaha WR200 and a Kawasaki KX80 but I got myself a Honda XR200. For an older person with little to no real riding skills the XR200 was great bike. I still have the CT90 K0 and one of the K3s. Eventually the boys found other things to distract them and lost interest in the bikes so I sold them. At the time I was a stay at home dad and semi-retired so had a little bit of spare time. I liked the little Hondas and thought it would be good to have small collection of 50cc and 90cc bikes which resulted in a bit of wheeling and dealing in Honda Cubs and parts. Then an old Honda 90 popped up on TradeMe. It was advertised as a S90 that had been rescued from a pile of rubbish. The guy who rescued it was a British bike enthusiast with no interest in Japanese bikes but he hated to see any old bike go to the scrap dealer. I knew nothing about the S90 but because I
already had a couple of Honda 90s it was worth a go to try and fix it up. I won the auction and after getting the bike home I soon discovered it was going to be a bit more than just a fix-up. After checking the engine and frame numbers I discovered is was a S90Z and some further investigation showed the bike was mixture of S90 and S90Z parts. Because the frame and engine were Z I decided I should restore it to a factory original Z model. I had absolutely no experience or skills needed to restore an old motorbike so I had to teach myself everything.
TACKLING THE WORK The first task was to strip it down to a bare frame. I bagged and labelled every last nut and bolt so I would know where it went later. The next was to start sourcing the parts I need. This is where I became acquainted with my friends Google and eBay. The biggest difference was the fuel tank, tank panels and badges. It wasn’t too long before I found these parts and after parting with quite a few dollars I had them all. The body, tank, headlight bucket and a few other small parts needed painting so first they had to be stripped. I bought a cheap sand blasting gun and a bag of garnet to do the job. I lined my high-sided trailer with a tarp to catch as much of the media as possible so as not to run out before the job was finished. This exercise brought me to the realisation that I needed a small sand blasting cabinet so back to my favourite tool retailer for a for a cheap unit, a bag of garnet and a bag of glass beads. The glass beads were for cleaning up all the aluminium before polishing and to clean up the head, barrel and carburettor. For paint colour I thought it would be good to do it in its original colour which was Candy Apple Red, but the quotes I got from spray painters were ridiculously high (even after I had done all the prep work) so I had to change tack and decided to paint it myself in gloss black. Quite a challenge for someone who did not have a spray booth or had ever used a spray gun – rattle cans was the only spray painting I had done. The guys at the paint shop were really helpful with tips on mixing and thinning so it wasn’t long before I was painting like a pro in my plastic sheet spray cubical hanging in my garage. The results were not perfect but pretty damn good for a novice. All the chrome work and nickel needed re-plating so here was my next big learning curve. I took all the parts to a local plating company to get a price. The price was through the roof, just like the spray painters, so I asked for a breakdown to enable me to decide what to do. I discovered the largest expense in the plating process was the polishing, which they outsourced. The best option was to pay them to strip the chrome, take it home and polish it then return it for plating. I didn’t have a buffing wheel and had never done metal polishing but that wasn’t going to stop me. So it was off to the Tool Shed to buy a bench grinder and some polishing wheels. After a bit of YouTube and some practice I had just about mastered the skill. I restored the old tank while I was waiting for the correct one to arrive. The chrome tank panels were badly pitted so I had to try and sand the pitting out. I did it all with a palm sander and by hand and managed to get almost all the pitting out. Some of the other parts needed a bit of sanding and polishing. I also polished all the nuts and bolts that needed chrome or zinc and returned it all to the platers. The guards and
Beaded Wheels 19
exhaust were beyond saving so I had to buy new ones. I also polished some of the aluminium parts. I bought aftermarket rims and spokes and taught myself how to lace wheels on a home built truing stand. I first bead blasted the hubs and brake plates and polished them. Saved myself heaps doing this and the result was very satisfying. Next job was the engine but I had never pulled apart an engine before so the next purchases had to be a Workshop Manual and Parts List and a few more tools including a torque wrench. I replaced everything in the engine except the crank – this would later prove to be a big mistake. I was totally new to this and had not seen all the metal that was in the oil when I drained it. Besides I had read that the crank in these small engines was bullet proof. I had donor engines for any worn/damaged parts and bought new parts like piston and rings, valves and springs, clutch plates and oil seals . I had trouble lapping the new valves into the valve seats so took the valves and head to an engine reconditioner and for $10 per valve he seated them and he also checked and honed the bore. After assembly and installation in the frame I had a few problems with the gears. I figured I must have done something wrong when putting it back together so I had to dismantle it again (good practice) and replace the gear set with one from another engine that I knew was working properly. Back in the bike and all working well. Next is where the VCC enter the picture. To get it vinned I needed a Historic Motor Vehicle Date of Manufacture & Authenticity Statement. I figured seeing as I was basically retired and would be doing more restorations the easiest thing to do was to join. Little was I to know it would only be a year or so before I was forced back to work and all bike restoration went on hold. The bike successfully went through the vinning process and was registered and warranted and is now on the road. I am not an experienced rider so I only took the bike for a few short trips in my local area. A couple of years later we were temporarily living semi rural so thought I would take the S90Z
20 Beaded Wheels
SPECIFICATIONS:
CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 77 YEARS
CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 77 YEARS
CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 77 YEARS
Beaded Wheels
No. 382 June/July 2023
Beaded Wheels
No. 380 February/March 2023
New Zealand’s Foremost Historical Motoring Magazine $8.95
New Zealand’s Foremost Historical Motoring Magazine $8.95
No. 381 April/May 2023
New Zealand’s Foremost Historical Motoring Magazine $8.95
SUMMER OF MOTORING NATIONAL AND LOCAL RALLY ACTION BEHIND THE
WHEEL
1900 WOLSELEY
GEORGE BEGG FESTIVAL CONJURING UP A BIT OF SOUTHERN NOSTALGIA
FIAT RESTORATION 9 418979 000012
Horsepower 8bhp @ 9,500rpm Engine OHC Single Cylinder, air cooled, 4 stroke Transmission 4 speed Frame pressed steel Gasoline Tank Capacity 7 litres Weight 86.6 kg Bore and stroke 50mm x 45.6mm (Oversquare!)
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BEHIND THE WHEEL RILEY KESTREL DRIVING OUR HISTORY
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WE GET BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A
for a long run on some quiet country roads. This is where not checking the crank came back to bite me in the backside. After riding for about 20 minutes the engine seemed to be playing up a bit – slowing down, not accelerating. As I came to a stop the engine cut out. I thought it might be fuel or spark related so I checked the tank, petcock, fuel lines and spark plug but nothing seemed out of place. I gave it a kick and it started and ran ok, but five minutes later while on SH1 it suddenly came to a dead stop and was seized solid. I had just enough time to get the clutch in and coast to a small layby and out of danger. It remained unrepaired for the next year or so until we moved back to Auckland where I had a workshop to fix it. I thought it must have been a seized piston but after finally getting it apart I found the crank bottom end bearing was the thing that seized. Easy fix with a crank from a spare S90 engine but not before checking all tolerances. I stated at the beginning I wanted to restore it to factory original and that is what I did. However I liked the look of the upswept scramble pipe and the café racer seat so it was back to eBay to source the parts. It didn’t take long to find the high pipe and scrambler clutch cover and there are plenty of aftermarket seats in Thailand. I like the result, but it might upset the purist. Since this first project I have become completely obsessed with everything Honda from the 1960s, ‘70s and early ‘80s. I have amassed a collection of magazine adverts, sales brochures, dealer posters and workshop posters numbering in the thousands. I also collect genuine workshop manuals and parts lists as well as owners handbooks. As if that wasn’t mad enough I also have dozens of diecast and kitset models and just about anything else with a Honda logo on it. I even recently bought a very tidy 1983 Honda City so I had somewhere to keep my Motocompo. In due course I intend to do a resto on the City as well. I am now retired (I hope) so I can get on with my next project which will be a C77 Dream – not a full restoration – this will be “survivor”.
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Nick Rump I am a self confessed “Honda Nut” focusing on 1960’s and 70’s models. I have been collecting motorbike projects, collectables, advertising and memorabilia for about 20 years. I have had to import a lot of my collection so the bank balance has taken a bit of a hammering at times thanks to eBay and Yahoo Japan. I recently branched out into cars with a 1983 City to pair with the Motocompos. I have made some good friends through Honda bikes and I really enjoy meeting and helping out fellow collectors. I have been a non active member of the North Shore branch but hope to become more involved now that I have retired.
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20 YEARS ON…
A REUNION Words and photos Jodi Tomlin
In July 2003 a crazy plan came to fruition. Seven Harley-Davidsons (five Vintage, one PV, one PWV) landed in Vancouver, along with around 60 modern H-Ds. The intention was to ride to Milwaukee for the 100th Anniversary of Harley-Davidson. The subsequent six-week journey saw us wind our way across the top of the USA taking in so many sights, experiencing HOG (Harley Owner’s Group) camaraderie and down-home American hospitality. For the six weeks we were “stars”. Everywhere we went we drew a crowd. It was so much fun for us all. The most emotional day on the trip was the day that we rode into Milwaukee. We rode directly to 3700 West Juneau Avenue, the original home of the H-D factory and today the Corporate Headquarters. We rode onto the grounds and parked all seven bikes out front of the steps to the office. There were congratulatory hugs and tears flowing, it had been a big ask for the vintage bikes, 3500 miles, most of it in searing heat. It would get to over 40°c most days. Along the way, the modern contingent shook their heads in dismay as they observed the daily maintenance regime that took place in the motel carparks each evening. On the journey, the maintenance did include such tasks as re-spoking the rear wheel of our bike, the 1925, on the side of a highway. A gearbox rebuild was done at Sturgis, again on our bike. A valve grind on Peter A’s 1926 bike in a motel carpark, the list went on! The event culminated in a few of us being in the official parade. Again, the Vintage bikes caused a real stir. People were literally screaming at us. It was very exhilarating. Returning to New Zealand and normal life was quite unsettling but life carried on… For the next couple of years, we’d have a get together of the “vintage” group but that soon waned, and it got down to catching up with one or two people when you happened to be at the same event. Earlier this year, while at the National Motorcycle Rally in Invercargill, a few of us met up and mooted the idea of a gettogether for everyone later in the year, being that we’d reached 20 22 Beaded Wheels
years post trip. We are thankful that Steve Murray bit the bullet and took charge of corralling us. So on the weekend of 10-12 November, we all descended on Palmerston North, where we met as a group 21 years ago to be introduced to the tour and the wider group we’d be travelling with. This time, the gathering was just about the old bike contingent plus a couple of extra people, those who also have vintage bikes and/ or have travelled with us subsequently and remain firm friends. We trailered the 1925 and 1926 bikes to Palmy and on Saturday we went for a celebratory ride. Just to get us in the groove, there was some roadside maintenance performed as the cobwebs were blown out of Peter A’s 1926 bike (back on the road for about a week after being parked up for 10 years). Things settled down and the rest of the ride was great. We had a beautiful day riding on fabulous roads. Peter Thomson kindly plotted a run that took us out towards Ashurst and onto where the construction zone is for the Manawatu Gorge, there we were able to view some of the build work going on, then it was back through Ashurst and northwards. After a number of miles, we made it to the little hamlet of Apiti where we viewed a private car collection before heading over the road to the local pub for lunch. Great menu, a couple of bevvies and great company meant that time slipped away and next thing we were dashing off to make it in time to view the next collection. This time we visited Rush Motors to see a substantial collection of unique vehicles including a McLaren M22 Formula 5000 race car from 1972. After this visit it was time to keep on the southward course back to our motel in Palmy. We all got ready for dinner and took a short walk down to a restaurant where we all talked about the wonderful day and of
highlights from 20 years ago. The most noticeable difference in this reunion was that, after our evening meals together, everyone was in bed by 10pm or at least retired to their rooms. On Sunday morning we took a short ride out to Peter and Jennifer Thomson’s home to take a look at their fabulous motorcycle collection before setting off in various directions for home or other visits. All in all, it was fabulous to see everyone. Of the magnificent seven riders and passengers, only Mark Tomlin was unable to make the weekend. We won’t be waiting another 20 years for the next catch-up.
Beaded Wheels 23
NELSON 15–21 MARCH 2026 2026 VERO INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF HISTORIC MOTORING
CRACKING ON … Time flies when you are having fun and with just four months under our belt since being awarded the 2026 Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring planning is
Entrant 1649 at the Dunedin Festival of Historic motoring.
already moving ahead at a cracking pace. It has taken a little time to gather the team together, but I am extremely grateful and very pleased to have such a talented and experienced group of individuals offer to assist with the planning and development of the festival. A number of offers of assistance from both Nelson and our close neighbours in Marlborough have been welcome and, as planning progresses, we will find roles for you all.
FESTIVAL DATES We can now confirm the 2026 Vero international Festival of Historic Motoring will commence on Sunday 15 March 2026 with registrations and opening ceremony and conclude on the evening of Saturday 21 March 2026 with the grand finale dinner and prize giving.
FACEBOOK PAGE AND WEBSITE
VENUE The main venue and festival headquarters will be the Trafalgar Centre in Nelson with most activities and rallies traversing the Nelson and Tasman Region
SURFACE MAIL 2026 Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring PO Box 3358, Richmond 7050, New Zealand
NATIONAL SURVEY During January most VCC members will have received an email survey requesting you indicate your intentions re attending the 2026 Vero. Your response is vitally important to the festival organising committee to ensure we pitch our plans accordingly. Your earliest response is appreciated. Ray Robertson, Festival Director
Our facebook page is up and running – search “Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring“ to join and follow us. Our website is still a work in progress but will be coming to you soon at www.historicmotoring.org.nz.
Meet the team Karen Thompson Secretary Karen has played a very active and supporting role in event organising from branch and national rallies/ swapmeets and Daffodil Day fundraising activities. Karen and her husband Rob have a 1985 Lotus and a 1926 Model T which they have rallied extensively all over NZ
Simon Linstone
Treasurer
Simon is an accountant and has worked for Countdown for many years. His experience in budget and forecast modelling is proving very valuable in the festival planning process. Simon has a 1962 Saab two stroke and is currently restoring a Saab V4.
Mike Wilson
Communications Manager
Mike has a background in design but until recently managed a car restoration business which also looked after the collection at the Nelson Classic Car Museum. He now works on special projects and marketing for the museum. He was also part of the Project 64 team that took a Mini to Bonneville to achieve a couple of speed records. Mike has six classic cars but, in his words, “only two work”.
24 Beaded Wheels
Jim & Kyra Wareing
Rally Route Controllers
Very experienced Rally controllers and route plotters with high levels of branch and national rally experience and involvement. Jim also held position of branch chairman and National Executive membership. Jim and Kyra have had owned many vehicles but currently have a 1930 Chrysler 70 coupe, 1972 MGB roadster and 1973 Fiat Bambina George Kear
National Management Team Rep
George, aside from his roles CEO of Auto Restorations and VCC National President, will be keeping a very welcome watching brief over the festivals planning progress and providing governing support as required.
Ray Robertson
Festival Director
Ray has a plethora of club experience gathered during his 50 years association with the Vintage Car Club in many roles with the Nelson Branch. He has recently retired from his role as a Facilities Manager at a private hospital. Ray is our man to keep the team on track and moving forward to create a stunning event for all who are planning to head to Nelson for the festival.
*Shipping out of COKER USA monthly
HALF PAGE FOR COKER
18 Parkwood Place, East Tamaki, Auckland
½
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Beaded Wheels 25
BROOKLANDS
The Brooklands track in England was conceived by Hugh Fortescue Lock-King in 1906 after the blanket national 20mph speed limit came into force across the UK. The track was designed by Colonel Capel Loft-Holden, Royal Engineers, with the aim of 120mph hands off motoring. Stuart Francis takes us on a tour of one of the spiritual homes of motor racing in England.
Words and photos Stuart Francis
HISTORY
PRE WWI
Opening in 1907, it was the world’s first purpose-built banked motor racing circuit as well as one of Britain’s first airfields, which also became Britain’s largest aircraft manufacturing centre by 1918. Construction on the 330 acre site was not without its problems, nearly bankrupting Hugh Fortescue Lock-King, who had a nervous breakdown during the build. Hugh was bailed out by his family and his wife took over management of the project. The Outer Circuit was 2.76 miles long and 100 feet (30m) wide, with 30 feet (10m) high banking at both ends plus a 0.9 mile finishing straight. A test hill was added 1910, mountain circuit added in 1930 and the Campbell circuit added in 1937. Constructed of concrete it was not a smooth surface, it settled over the years, was damaged during WWI and repaired each winter. After years of neglect and damage, post WWII, it is now a protected heritage site. The ongoing preservation and restoration of the track, and remaining facilities, is covered by a stewardship agreement between the stakeholders.
Close to London with good rail and road links it soon became the Home of British Motor Racing and Aviation. The track was used as a development centre for the emerging British vehicle and aviation industries. A number of racers, tuners and jobbing engineers set up workshops in sheds onsite. Long distance records were very popular as they demonstrated reliability. In 1913 Percy Lambert, driving his 4.5 litre Talbot, covered 103 miles in one hour. A number of aircraft schools and manufactures were also established on site, in what became known as the Aviation Village. These included Bleriot, Sopwith, Martinside and Vickers. Brooklands was the inspiration for the aerodrome in the film Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines.
26 Beaded Wheels
WWI Racing continued for a while with civilian races giving way to military, so-called khaki, events. However by 1916 all racing and record breaking had stopped due to the needs of wartime manufacturing. By the end of WWI it was the largest aircraft production site in the UK with over 18,000 having been produced. It was
also a major munitions manufacturing facility. Training of pilots and ground crew expanded significantly with a number of RFC/RAF operational and training squadrons based there. The surface of the track was badly damaged by heavy munitions traffic, particularly from large lorries that used iron tyres.
INTERWAR YEARS
Mercedes Benz building and test track, which are very modern additions and not parts of the original Brookland Circuit. Photo: Adobe Stock
Brooklands Motor Racing. Date: circa 1907
Racing resumed in 1920 after extensive repairs which were paid for by the War Office. As racing recommenced noise became an issue with the local population, leading to the universal adoptions of Brooklands Cans (a simple rhomboid shaped silencer with a fish tale exhaust, sized on cylinder displacement). The golden age of record breaking lasted until the Great Depression, with substantial financial bonuses available from vehicle manufacturers, and oil, fuel and tyre suppliers, for any national or international records. A dedicated group of drivers and riders made a good living just exceeding previous records by the minimal amount, allowing time for the record to be ratified before going out for another attempt to raise the record slightly or playing a well-choreographed game of record breaking leap frog with a fellow competitor. The 1.168 mile mountain circuit was added in 1930, using the Finishing Straight, Home Banking and the Fork. It was a cross between road and track racing, tough on drivers and testing the acceleration, braking, and road-holding of their cars. The 2.26 mile Campbell circuit (designed by Malcolm Campbell, World Land Speed Record holder) was added in 1937 to offer a road racing circuit alternative to Donnington Park and Crystal Park. In the early days events were run on similar lines to horse racing, with entrants having their own stables and racing colours. Results were posted on a horse racing score board and on-track betting was allowed. Attracting very large crowds to some events, over 300,000, it became the place to be seen. The smart set were always in attendance for the prestigious events. Certain buildings, including the BARC Clubhouse and the 1932 Brooklands Aero Clubhouse became popular places for them to congregate, with dedicated lounges for lady drivers, riders and pilots (prolific author Barbara Cartland was a member). Long distance and endurance races were popular as they demonstrated the reliability and stamina of particular makes. Handicap races were also very popular because of the very diverse fields. The track timekeeper “Ebby” Ebbewhite created elaborate
Photo: Adobe Stock
Beaded Wheels 27
handicap records, which the wily track regulars tried to circumvent. Some women competed in the ordinary car and motorbike races but most took part in women-only match races. It became increasingly difficult to set records because of the poor surface and limitations of the track but a few brave souls continued to push the limits. There was a long history of creating behemoths built around aircraft engines to capture the outer circuit record like Chitty Bang Bang (a chain-driven customised Mercedes chassis containing a 23-litre six cylinder Maybach aero-engine). John Cobb in his Napier Railton Special set the ultimate car lap of 143.44 mph in 1935 using a high compression version of the 24 litre Napier Lion aircraft engine. The track was even more challenging for motorcycles with the limited front suspension and rigid rear ends of the time. Noel Pope set both the ultimate motorcycle and motorcycle and sidecar laps at 124.51 and 107 mph respectively on his supercharged Brough Superior in 1939. The Test Hill record went to Francis Beart on his Grindley-Peerless/JAP motorcycle – 6.99secs in 1936. Gold stars were awarded by the British Motorcycle Racing Club to motorcyclists who lapped at 100mph; first, of nearly 200, was awarded in 1922 to Bert Le Vack. Double gold stars were awarded for 120mph laps; only two men broke the 120mph barrier, Noel Pope and Eric Fernihough. (Noel Pope’s biography Full Chat is real “boys own adventure book” on motorcycle racing in the 1930s). Miss Beatrice Shilling (who later became famous for her work on Rolls-Royce Merlin engine carburettors) was the second of three women to be awarded a gold star. The BSA Gold Star motorcycle was named after the award, for a specially tuned BSA M24 Empire Star in the hands of Wal Handley, lapped at 107.6mph.
Brookland sheds.
Control tower and clubrooms.
WWII AND POST WAR
Members’ Banking - note the slumps in the concrete slabs.
Large chunks of the track were removed at the Fork to extend aircraft production facilities during WWII. Although the distinctive site was camouflaged with undergrowth and fake houses, the Vickers factory was damaged by bombing which killed 90 and injured 420 workers. The largest aircraft hanger in UK was eventually built over the track between the Banking Bend and the Fork. Further pieces were removed in early 1950s to extend the runway for the Valiant V bomber and a road was cut through the circuit. A number of Vickers aircraft were designed and built at the site, the last aircraft built there flew out in December 1970. In 1975, following lobbying by The Brooklands Society, some buildings (including the 1907 BARC Clubhouse, the 1911 Flight Ticket Office and the 1932 Brooklands Aero Clubhouse), structures and remaining sections of the track were given preservation orders. The whole site is now protected as a heritage site by Heritage England.
Brough Superior 1180 and sidecar and Scott.
THE BROOKLANDS MUSEUM The Sheds: From the outset of the track there were sheds to rent from which car companies, engineering companies, tuning companies, drivers and riders operated. Some of these sheds survived and have been refurbished to house the car and motorcycle collection. The first shed has a film on continuous loop explaining the history of the track and site. The jewel in the crown of the collection is John Cobb 24 litre Napier Railton special that set the ultimate lap record. There is a diverse host of two, three and four wheel period racing machines tightly packed into the sheds (making it difficult to get a good
28 Beaded Wheels
P1127 - First Jump Jet. Titch Allen’s (founder of the UK VMCC) Scott racer.
Napier Lion engine 24L.
look at some of them). There are also some post war machines on display and a Formula 1 simulator to try out. The Track: Five pieces of the original outer track still exist, however only the Members Banking is accessible to the general public, as are two parts of the Campbell circuit and the Test Hill. One part of the Campbell track forms the southern boundary of Mercedes-Benz test track. The other remaining parts of the outer track can be seen and the overgrown sections are now being cleared. The museum regularly runs track days, usually a themed event in conjunction with owners’ clubs or historic groups. Some historic vehicles are allowed to drive along the Members Banking during these events Possibly the most used part of the track is the Test Hill; entrants to some events are allowed to have a go on this fearsome incline. It is 352 feet long and divided into three sections, starting with a gradient of 1 in 8, then 1 in 5 and the top third has a gradient of 1 in 4. Entrants are asked not to emulate the outright motorcycle and car record holders who completed their runs with crashes! On open days Friends of the Museum offer rides up the Test Hill in specially prepared sports cars. The Aircraft Collection: A multi million pound restoration of the aircraft collection and aviation facilities was recently completed. The refurbished facilities are excellent with two large hangar housing several aircraft, including a rebuilt Wellington bomber (originally built at Brooklands) that was fished out of Loch Ness, and aviation research equipment. The larger aircraft are displayed outside demonstrating the diversity of Vickers post war production, including a Concorde (a lot of the early design work was undertaken at Weybridge). There is a hard runway alongside the Mercedes-Benz test track that was originally part of the Vickers/BAe facilities. The Brooklands Museum also has a grass runway, more suitable for older aircraft. London Transport Bus Collection: The London Bus Museum, which opened in 2011, houses around 35 buses and coaches, the largest collection of working historic London buses in the world. About two-thirds are owned by the Trust and the remainder by individual members. The vehicles are all of London origin and date from about 1875 to 1979 and arranged in a timeline from the early horse bus to more modern buses similar to those on London’s streets today. Items of street furniture, artefacts, and memorabilia, related to bus operations in London are also on display, from uniforms to ticket machines, medals, signs and examples of works of art. Mercedes-Benz Test Track: In early 2004 the central area of Brooklands including the hard runway and parts of the remaining circuit were sold to DaimlerChrysler UK Retail who opened Mercedes-Benz World to the public on 29 October 2006. This development incorporates a vehicle test track (including part of the original Campbell Circuit) and an off-road circuit. Also included is a conference centre and extensive Mercedes-Benz showroom. If you are thinking of buying a Mercedes you can organise a test drive of the model you are interested in. The experience: The family friendly museum site covers 30 acres and with so many things to see and do, a visit can take some hours. The museum is open from 10:00am to 4:00pm, and for those of us with impaired mobility electric scooters are available. The museum hosts a number of motoring and aviation events each year, visit their excellent website to find out what is going on.
Beaded Wheels 29
RALLY SNIPPETS
A round up of notable rallies and events from around our branches
Southland Arrowtown Rally: End of timed section.
ARROWTOWN RALLY 2023 Southland Branch Words and photos Stuart Francis
There were doubts over whether there would be an Arrowtown Rally this year after the long-time organiser decided to stand down. However Mac and Carol McGarry, recently returned from living in Auckland, stepped into the breech. As usual in late Spring the weather forecast for the lower South Island seemed to change every day, except Saturday 11 Nov, the predictions were bright sunshine and they got it right! The usual hard core of reprobates and masochists gathered at Lumsden Railway Station, those who brought machines on trailers were kicking or bumping their reluctant mounts into action. Numbers were slightly down this year with 20 machines entered with one no-show. The oldest machine was Greg Eunson’s 1913 Royal Enfield V twin, the youngest was Matt Furness 1986 Honda VFR750F and one outfit, your scribe’s 1978 BMW R100 and Watsonian Monaco. Nearly an equal number of local riders decided to ride along, frustratingly some were on eligible machines and a couple of them were actually branch members. Strange to relate, one of these machines, a pristine Kawasaki KZ900, was sold after the owner was made an offer he could not refuse. The two routes followed the usual paths, the short route was just a straight ride on SH6 to Kingston. The long route turned off towards Te Anau just outside of Lumsden and then turned towards Lowther at Mossburn. The end of the timed sections for both routes was at the Athol District Memorial Hall. A small group
30 Beaded Wheels
of tourists stopped in the hall carpark to admire the machines. Both routes then continued on to Kingston Golf Club. The lunch stop at the Kingston Golf Club was a welcome break to stretch the limbs and a chance to catch up. The organisers decided to hold the field test at the Golf Club after lunch. The field test was a slow riding/balancing exercise, your scribe was disqualified because of an unfair advantage, a sidecar! The run down the Devils Staircase, alongside Lake Wakatipu was a revelation; without the usual hoard of doddering and suicidal tourists, it was an absolute blast. It is difficult to describe the hard work and sense of satisfaction of wrestling a large outfit along the lakeside twist and turns with the spectacular scenery in the background. After the difficulties of the last few years securing an evening venue, the Arrowtown Bowls club was a great location for the prize giving. The icing on the cake was the mobile pizza van, it did a roaring trade. Overall winner was Lex Westoby on his 1979 Yamaha 1100. Ferg McDowell (1939 BSA B26) and Matt Furness (1986 Honda VFR750F) both won awards because their machines were the only ones in their class. Virtually unheard of, there was no casualties, although a couple got close. The run back to Invercargill was truly a blast, the strong northerly wind meant most competitors virtually flew home. Mac and Carol McGarry, and the team, deserve praise for organising and running a great rally.
WINDSOR RALLY 2023 North Otago Branch Words and photos Ernest George
It was a good morning to start our 62nd Windsor Rally down in the Historic Precinct Area in Oamaru. At the start the field tests were held consisting of three bags of blue nails, brown nails and screws and you had to guess the number in each bag. Fortythree vehicles left for the run covering the area from the sea to the mountains. Heading towards Kakanui along Beach Road then inland to the Waiareka Valley up to Round Hill, great views were seen over the area. Then onto Enfield, Windsor, Tokarahi and to the top end of the famous Ngapara hill climb. Down the hill to Ngapara heading toward Elderslie, Weston and back to our clubrooms for lunch. I believe this is the first time that we have used our clubrooms for the Windsor Rally. A shower of rain brought everyone inside. After lunch everyone had a short run covering the area, along Aln Street which gave a view towards the north end, past the water tower, Ardgowan School and Hall, Devils Bridge Wastelands, Airedale, Weston, Deborah, Alma and slowing down for the
Southanjer Rest Home to allow the residents to view the vehicles as they passed. Up to Lookout Point for a view over Oamaru and back to the clubrooms for prize-giving and afternoon tea. A special day for our Branch was to have South Island Club Captain Mark Wilkinson and Management Committee member Rebecca George present the certificates to the winners. Thank-you to everyone who came to take part and our members who helped in making this Windsor Rally a great event on the day. Congratulations to our winners. You are most welcome to come back next year and defend your titles. Class Winners Field Test 1= John Cook 1978 Triumph 2000 TC South Otago 1= Gil Edmunds Otago Motorcycle Bruce Murray 1954 BSA Otago P80V Stu Neil 1991 Madza Otago P60V John Cook 1978 Triumph 2000 TC South Otago PWV Sarah Miller 1955 Plymouth Belvedere North Otago PV Stu Campion 1937 Chevrolet sedan Otago Vintage Rebecca George 1926 Chrysler tourer North Otago Veteran Nevin Gough 1914 Buick tourer Otago Overall Winner John Cook 1978 Triumph 2000 TC South Otago
NOW I KNOW WHAT’S IN THE SHED Otago Branch Words and photos Neil Steel
▲ A very well run facility with many projects in progressing. Magnificent V12 Ferrari engine ready to burst into sound. t Rod Tempero (3rd from right) and the enthusiastic members of the VCC Otago Branch.
▲
Travelling north on SH1, I often gaze to the right just south of Oamaru in a dip in an 80km area, and see a building flying motor sport flags. An article in a NZ Classic Car revealed all … hiding behind the flags was Rod Tempero’s classic car workshop. A time and date was arranged with Rod for a visit. The day arrived and after descending down his long driveway, we were met by the sight of a beautiful red classic Ferrari, gleaming magnificently in the morning sun. Rod is a man of incredible skill with a passion for classic race cars and answered all our questions explaining the process from a client walking in with a picture in a book, to driving away with a big smile a few years later. In his very well equipped workshop, we saw a number of the world’s most sought after race cars, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Alfa Romeo, all in different stages of build. The day finished up with a stop at Scotts Brewery on the Oamaru waterfront where we met up with other members of the Otago Branch of the VCC. A great spot to enjoy the banter with the other members and marvel at the cars they are passionate about.
Beaded Wheels 31
CAMS SOUTHERN CLASSIC FESTIVAL
24 – 26 November 2023 Words and photos Stuart Francis
The ninth CAMS Southern Classic Festival was held at Levels International Raceway, Timaru, the event attracted 300 entries from all over New Zealand including some Vintage Car Club members. The CAMS Southern Classic Festival caters for 28 classes of solo machines and outfits, from Vintage Pre War to Pre 95 Superbikes, two Stroke GP machines to F4 Buckets and a development class. The machines race in nine groups, the groups put together classes of machines with similar performance, creating full grids and entertaining racing. The event also hosts the New Zealand Classic Bike and Sidecar Grand prix titles events, these were run as separate races. The Levels International Raceway is a FAI Cat 3 circuit, owned by the South Canterbury Car Club, which hosts a number of motorsports events during the year. CAMS hold two club events and the Southern Classic Festival at Levels each year. The track is situated just off of SH1, near Timaru, about 140kms south of Christchurch. The 2.4km long motorcycle circuit is relatively flat, roughly shaped like a thigh bone with six left-hand corners (two of which are complete 180 degrees) four right-hand bends, a right hand hairpin bend, eight short straights and a back straight that’s nearly a 1km long. The riders like the grippy, technically demanding circuit and the outfit swingers have to work overtime to keep up with the ever changing direction and the two long left hand bends. The fastest solo machines post 1min 11sec laps and the fastest outfits 1min 24sec. Earth banks on the western side of the circuit provide spectators with excellent views of the track action.
Jock Wooley 1980 TZ350 Yamaha leads the Group 2 start.
32 Beaded Wheels
The Pre 72 Junior Class attracted the largest classic entry with 15 machines spread across 10 different makes, with Suzuki and Honda the most popular. The Pre 72 Senior Class, came a close second with 12 entries spread across 8 different makes, with Triumph Bonnevilles and Tridents being the most popular machines. The three Sidecar classes totalled 11 entries spread across six makes, with Yamaha XS650 based machines dominating the field. The Vintage Pre War class had six entries evenly split between Rudges and Velocettes. The New Zealand Classic Grand Prix Pre 72 Open had 14 entries spread across 10 makes, with Triumph just being the most popular and with a good spread across other makes. Pre 89 Open attracted 25 entries on nine different makes, with Kawasaki being the most popular mounts and three Ducatis and a Gilera to round out the field. The Sidecar Classic attracted eight entries driving four different makes: Yamaha, Anderson/Yamaha, BMW and Harley-Davidson. The F4 Bucket class, a development class designed to let young riders learn racing, using small two and four stroke engines. The race attracted 22 entries, with the Suzuki FXR150 (DOHC, four valve, single, 20bhp) being by far the most popular. Peter Lodge’s inordinately quick 1972 ES2 Norton, ridden by Tyler Lincoln, raced in the Pre Senior 72, winning all four rounds. Tyler on the ES2 Norton also won the NZ Classic Grand Prix 2023 Pre 72 Open against a field of machines, which on paper should have beaten him. Reagan Bray on his 1989 Kawasaki ZXR400 took first place in the NZ Classic Grand Prix 2023 Pre 89 Open. Phil Price’s team Velocette was there in force, racing four Velocettes, the replica Works 350 DOHC, the replica Works 500 DOHC, 1939 Mk8 KTT and 1932 Mk4 KTT (ridden by Louisa Coleman). Phil won the Vintage Pre War class, winning three out of the four rounds. Phil also brought along his latest acquisition,
Group 1 - VintagePreWar, Period 63 250cc, Period 63 350cc, Period 72 Lightweights rumble away from the start line.
Louisa Coleman 1932 Mk4 KTT Velocette. (36) Rhys Wilson 1933 TT Replica Rudge 500 up against Brent Clarkson 1969 Suzuki T250.
(297)James & Lucy Dowman 1971 Yamaha XS650 (750) up against Keith Sinclair & Jon Rawcliffe 1970 Sportser 1120. Dave North 1963 250 Mk3 Ducati.
a 1961 Walmsley AJS 7R; Finlay Harman came second twice on it in the Pre 72 Juniors class. Finlay Harman 1936 DOHC 350 Velocette. Wandering round the pits is always rewarding with many excellent machines on display but there are always a few that stand out for technical or for aesthetic reasons: Andy Skelton’s 1978 TZ750 looked stunning in perfect Sonauto Yamaha
Beaded Wheels 33
6TH NATIONAL COMMER WANGANUI
Gauloises artwork, (the French cigarette maker was a major sponsor in the 1970s World Championships). John Carter’s 1971 Seeley Yamaha R5, was clearly inspired by John “Moon Eye” Cooper’s ground breaking Yamsel. Jason Easton’s 1963 Matchless 350 (fitted with an AJS 7R engine) had a replica McIntyre frame. Steve Biddlecombe’s 1970 250 Ducati Mk3 and Liam Henderson’s 1972 Benelli 2c (231cc) both superbly turned out in striking Italian Racing Red. Noel Jackson’s evocative replica of a 1972 900 iron XR Harley-Davidson was eye-catching. As usual the sidecars provided the greatest technical diversity. In the Sidecar Grand Prix Peter and Michael Dowman’s 1973 un-faired Yamaha RD700 (two RD350s joined together) finished a close second to Mark Smith’s and Gregory Wilkinson’s tightly faired BMW R100, (both were clocked at over 170kph on the back straight). The smartly turned out Grant Waters’ and Matt Gibbs’ 1972 Anderson TX650 Yamaha powered kneeler outfit was going well until the front wheel spokes started snapping. The bike display had a number of machines on show, again there were a couple of gems that really stood out. A very rare AJS 500cc R10, well used, but still clearly being ridden. Gilbert Bailey’s Turbo-charged twin Triumph (Daytona 675s) 1350cc potential record breaker for 2025. The rare sight of a GT750 Suzuki with full Dunstall body-kit and fairing. Phil Price’s record breaking works 500cc KTT (MT501) Velocette and Mk1 KTT Velocette were also on display. A great weekend, the event was efficiently run, relaxed and friendly, with entertaining racing, a rare combination these days. It was also good to see the number of female riders and swingers competing in the event. Note: It was nice to see the Beaded Wheels editor, a foundation member of CAMS, acting as pit crew for his son Brent Clarkson.
34 Beaded Wheels
Words Neil Farrer, photos Ian Higgins
On a lovely fine weekend 60 entrants arrived from all over New Zealand. From the small Model T 1913 ute, and a A35 van (Grasshopper) to the large White truck the largest vehicle to participate in the rally, the programme over the weekend catered for them all.
Friday night was a get together – social time. On Saturday entrants had the opportunity to visit our many city facilities, including the riverside markets. The Saturday run took entrants around the outskirts of Wanganui, the run taking most about two hours. Everyone parked at the Cornmarket Reserve, adjacent to the Dublin Street Bridge. Prior publicity had invited the public to come and view between 12.30 and 3pm. Many families took the opportunity while judging took place in the background. Some went up into the top story of the double decker London bus to get a better view of all the vehicles on display. Later everyone moved to the Wanganui Branch clubrooms for afternoon tea. A feature in our Parts Shed was a rebuilt Bradford open little truck with motorbike tyres on the wheels making it a real mud scrambler. Not designed for the road but
a fun machine. There was a total of five Bradfords on display and participating in the rally. The most that I have ever seen in one place for many years. Winner for the Saturday run was Toni Jenkins in the Austin A35 van. Sunday was the main rally day. The route covered approximately 90 km, some on gravel, and at no stage did we travel on a main highway. Some were very surprised that we could find such a route. After lunch we tried out the driver’s skills in the adjacent grounds – even the huge White truck. Tests for drivers to judge distances, test for navigators to deliver newspapers, and also drop golf balls into containers, the final test was to drive up to barrier – close enough to turn on the light but not too close to cause the horn to go. Lots of laughs over that one.
CIAL RALLY
s
s Winner of the Volvo Truck Trophy for the Most Original Truck: Grant Bullock poses with his trophy alongside his 1946 Fargo at the clubrooms. Beside him his truck patiently awaits the next adventure. The truck was found submerged on a farm after a flood. Mechanically fine but the body has a few dings and dents. A totally original commercial vehicle. Allied Petroleum Ltd Cup for Overall Rally Winner: Colin Shoebridge (Auckland) on the right, receives his trophy from VCC NI Club Captain Glyn Clements. Colin’s ride was his 1936 Chevrolet ute pictured to the left.
t Volvo Bus Trophy for Winner Concours d’Elegance: Won by Ray Betteridge,(Wellington) for his 1929 Ford Model A van.
Our formal rally dinner at the racecourse with presentations of the Commercial Rally VCC Trophies and a number of other impromptu awards – Hard Luck, Longest Distance travelled to the rally, and First Entry. The formal awards were presented by North Island Cub Captain Glyn Clements Monday was low key with a morning tea at the clubrooms. A flyover by a Spitfire at 10am was a special event before we headed home.
s
Ian Chamberlain won the Watchorn Motor Museum Trophy for the most commendable effort in the preservation of Commercial Vehicles. Ian also collected the Hard Luck Award as he got a flat tyre on a tricky piece of metal road. Plenty of fellow entrants stopped to assist. Ian’s very quaint 1920 Ford Model T Music truck is alongside.
Beaded Wheels 35
RALLYE MONTE CARLO 2023
Posing with Pride, Peter Cameron taking top Concours Honours
Meticulous Post Rallye ‘condition check’ for all competitors. Banks Peninsula Branch Words and Don Gerrard, photos John McDonald, Don Gerrard
Crisp, but fine November weather conditions greeted the 39 teams entered in this year’s Rallye Monte Carlo as they began their journey to accumulate the required target points to contest the coveted Trophy. Hosted for the 30th year by Banks Peninsula Branch, the organisers had revamped the scoring system giving the older vehicles plenty of opportunity to perform well, and the final results reflected this. Fifty-eight locations were available for competitors to plan their route in advance and from midnight on Friday set off, picking up points as they toured through the countryside, eventually making their way to the finish at Duvauchelle by 2.15pm on Saturday. Here, two Driving Tests provided much entertainment and enjoyment for spectators, but in some cases not so for tiring drivers and valuable points were gained or lost. Five teams were entered this time around and the Model A Equipe proved too strong for the Jaguar, Ford and other marques and so close was the scoring that at one stage the Federation Internationale de I’Automobile had to meet to adjudicate. It was also a huge task for the judges to find a winner in the Concours de Confort, as the standard was
so high, but a British entrant did a sterling job of taking out the silverware. Now it was onto Akaroa for the evening Gala Dinner and Prizegiving with all the pomp and ceremony of a true Monequese Socialite occasion. Interspersed with the singing by the delectable Madam Coco, after just returning from a Paris engagement, the Champagne was shared by all the winners as many tales, true and not so, continued into the night. The only casualty of the Rallye was the Thomas Mauger 1914 Cadillac that decided to spit gearbox teeth early in the event. RESULTS: The Grand Prix d’Honneur 1 Vaughan Morrison- 1930 Model A 2 Paul McCulla- 1929 Model A 3 Tony Haycock- 1929 Durant Six 66 Grand Prix d’Equipe 1 Team Model A 2 That 70 Show - Ford/Jaguar 3 Stiff Up Lips- Austin 12/Jaguar/Austin-Healey Concours d’Confort 1 Peter Cameron/ Mark Errington MGB GT 2 Tim and Barbara Palmer - Citroen 2CV 3 Elliot Duke - Porsche 365
Victorious Model A of Vaughan Morrison.
36 Beaded Wheels
BOOK REVIEW chapters on Austins and the Hawke’s Bay earthquake of 1931, and on the intrepid Kiwi travellers Hector McQuarrie & Richard Matthews and their long-distance Austin exploits. Picnic in true Monte Carlo style, the Palmer 2CV. 1929 Durant Six 66, soon to bag 3rd overall.
AN AUSTIN ANTHOLOGY III James Stringer. Published 2023 by Veloce Publishing Ltd, who supplied the review copy. ISBN 978-1-787116-50-4. RRP $69.56 Reviewed by Mark Holman Obviously from the title, this is James Stringer’s third book of Austin miscellanea. Sadly the author died shortly before it was published. It’s pleasing to see that the foreword was written by Peter Fry, the Patron of the NZ Vintage Austin Register. In fact, there are quite a few New Zealand references throughout the book. For instance, the Southward (not Southwold!) Museum‘s example of the very rare Austin Sevenpowered Brough Superior sidecar outfit gets a mention and there are separate
So, what else do we see within these 112 pages, which focus mainly on the pre-WWII period? As with the previous volumes, it’s a lovely mixture of short chapters, from the fictional Austin Twelve called Gumdrop to the ‘company’ village built for Herbert Austin’s employees, Austin tractors, and GM’s almost successful attempted takeover bid in 1925. However, the longest and perhaps most interesting part of the book is devoted to the travels of Mugwump, a 1930 Austin 16 Burnham saloon. This was driven overland from England to Cape Town in 1963 by students from Bristol University and then driven back by a mixed crew of South African and British students. The car covered some 23,820 miles and, apart from endless punctures, it proved to be remarkably reliable despite the rugged terrain faced for much of the journey. With border closures and war zones, it’s not a trip that could be contemplated nowadays, sadly. Although this is a book to appeal particularly to Austin enthusiasts, it also should be of interest to a wider ‘vintage’ audience!
WRITERS WANTED The Beaded Wheels team is always on the lookout for a good article for future issues. To encourage you to put pen to paper two lucky authors or photographers per issue will win a limited edition Beaded Wheels cap.
Alas we are not in the position to provide financial recompense for services rendered but we are sure you will be compensated by the satisfaction of seeing your words and photos in print. Email your articles and ideas to: beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz High resolution digital photos are
preferred. Or contact our Editor, Kevin Clarkson, if you wish to discuss an idea for an article. Phone 021 0270 6525, kevin@vcc.org.nz Congratulations to the winners of our Beaded Wheels caps for this issue: Michael Hedgeman and Nick Rump.
The Crehan/Palmer 1928 Reo Wolverine.
Beaded Wheels 37
s Automobile Engineering. 1923-25 Jewett.
s Automotive Wiring Manual. Oldsmobile 1914.
CURRENT AFFAIRS Early car, truck and motorcycle wiring diagrams 1912-1935. Whenever someone does a full restoration of a car, truck or motorcycle, often the vehicle may require a complete rewire of the electrical system to ensure that the vehicle will be safe and reliable for many years. You may want to fix an electrical fault and need a wiring diagram. If you are lucky, you may already have the correct wiring diagram for your vehicle, but if you haven’t, it could be difficult to find. I did spend some time searching the internet for free old wiring diagrams with not much luck. It’s a case of knowing where to look without wasting hours. At the VCC Archive there are a number of resources dedicated to old car wiring diagrams, I will refer to three of them in this issue, that are from 1912-1935. The first book, Automotive Wiring Manual formally known as Official Auto Wiring Guide, was written by Harry Wells and published by Automotive Publishing Company in 1919. The book covers cars, trucks and motorcycles from 19121919 with 648 pages of A4 old style blueprints. The first 540 pages cover numerous vehicle
makes over this period, of every American make you can think of, plus more. There are even eight listings of Fiat cars. The last 107 pages of the blueprints show the internals of all the various electrical manufactures devices such as, voltage regulators, cutouts, generators, starter motors, magnetos and other ignition systems. Some manufactures have multiple entries of their electrical systems, such as Delco 27, Disco 5, Westinghouse 25, plus many names I have never heard of. The second book Automobile Engineering, Volume 5 printed in 1927 covers dates from 19221926. It consists of 210 pages of various American makes of cars showing A5 circuit wiring diagrams, as well as one page of specification/data sheets. Some of the data shows make and model, electrical system manufacturer, generator model specs, cutout - regulator contact gaps, ignition and valve and timing, firing order, carburettor make and size, cooling and oil capacities to name some. The third “book” is, 70 thin cardboard double sided sheets
ARCHIVIST NEWS Don Muller Archivist archivist@ vcc.org.nz Ph 03 385 6850
38 Beaded Wheels
s Automobile Electricity Wiring. 1922-25 Wolseley.
from 1929-1935 covering English, American as well as some Continental cars. The name on the sheet is Automobile Electricity Wiring diagrams, D 182 -D321. On the last 51 sheets, the reverse side provides comprehensive data about the car. All of these books are a great resource for those requiring information about their vehicles wiring and data. They are large, clear and easy to read. If you are
looking for wiring information about your vehicle, please first try your branch library, if this isn’t successful, email me at: archvist@vcc.org.nz . If I have the wiring diagram you require, I will email a copy to you. In my next issue, I may continue on the same subject of, “more old books at the Archive, with wiring and car information data.”
Our club archive is located at the VCCNZ National Office in Christchurch and is open to visitors on Friday mornings. It contains a wealth of historic material, a lot of which has been digitised. It is well worth a visit or if you have any queries do get in contact with our archivist Don Muller phone 03 385 6850 or archivist@vcc.org.nz.
MARKET PLACE Terms and conditions CLASSIFIED RATES Due to space limitation, classified advertisers should refrain from the use of dashes, spaces, blank lines and formatting. All classified rates include GST. The 45 word limit includes contact details. Advertisers requiring ads longer than the standard 45 words, or who require typography or space, must apply display rates. The advertising department reserves the right to edit or return classifieds not meeting the criteria Member of Vintage Car Club: No charge for text or photo classified advertising. Members must be financial and identify their Branch. Limited to one free advert per issue, maximum of three insertions per advertisement. Non Member: $21 for first 45 words or part thereof. Text in a Boxed Ad : $24 non-members* Colour Photo Ad in Box: $56 non-members, enclose a clear photo and an SAE if return required.* Advertisements should be typed or clearly printed or submitted through vcc.org.nz/beadedwheels. Advertising Email address: beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz Advert and Payment: to arrive not later than 10th of month preceding publication. Payment by Credit card or Internet banking (for Internet banking details email beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz). DISPLAY RATES* (gst exclusive) Casual (per issue) 3 Issues (per issue) Full Page $900 $720 Half Page $530 $390 Horizontal ¼ Page $270 $216 All display rates quoted exclude GST and are for finished digital artwork supplied. Artwork can be arranged at an extra charge. Deadline for copy 10th of month preceding publication. Beaded Wheels will consider articles of a technical nature for inclusion in its editorial space. Beaded Wheels however regrets that it is not able to offer editorial space for advertisements nor for the promotion of products. Marketplace advertising cancellations received in writing prior to advertising deadline will be refunded in full. Where possible Beaded Wheels will refund 70% of the advertisement cost for any cancellations received after the booking deadline. *Payment by credit card will incur additional bank fee processing charge of 4% Beaded Wheels makes every effort to ensure no misleading claims are made by advertisers, responsibility cannot be accepted by Beaded Wheels or the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) for the failure of any product or service to give satisfaction. Inclusion of a product or service should not be construed as endorsement of it by Beaded Wheels or by the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.). No liability can be accepted for non-appearance of advertisements and the text of all advertisements is subject to the approval of the editor who reserves the right to refuse any advertisements which are not compatible with the aims, objectives, and standards of Beaded Wheels or the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) In accordance with the provisions of the Human Rights Commission Act 1977 Beaded Wheels will not publish any advertisement which indicates or could reasonably be understood as indicating an intention to discriminate by reason of sex, marital status, religious or ethical beliefs. Advertisers should take all care in drafting advertisements as they could be held liable, as well as Beaded Wheels and the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.).
FOR SALE 1976 TRIUMPH 2000 L ast registered 2017, rego on hold. Deceased estate. Selection of spare parts available. Minor rust as stored in carport. Very tidy interior. Viewing in Silverstream Upper Hutt. Selling on behalf of my sister. Offers. Phone Robert 027 483 9825 or 07 888 7558 robjac3016@gmail.com MEM WAIKATO CARBURETTOR RECONDITIONING including classic and performance makes. 40 plus years trade experience. Free advice. Contact Graeme Tulloch, Tulmac Carburettor Specialists on 027 612 2312 or (Levin) 06 368 2202 COACHWORK F or all your coachwork, woodwork and timber rim steering wheels for your veteran, vintage or commercial vehicles contact Designs N Wood, John Martin, 11 Bell Avenue, Cromwell. Phone/fax 03 445 0598, 021 109 1309 or email martin_jw@xtra.co.nz MEM CENTRAL OTAGO MORRIS/AUSTIN 1800 MK3 INTERIOR. Front seats and rear base are in exceptional condition. Rear back is split at the top due to sun damage. Door card vinyl covers are excellent. The card itself would need to be replaced. Carpets would need to be re coloured but wear and tear is not excessive. This whole package would transform a tired 1800 interior. No other parts. Genuine enquiries to tuffey@gmail.com or 021 550 429.
1936 WOLSELEY 25HP SUPER SIX SERIES 2 Paintwork showing its patina but still sound, motor done approx 5k since major overhaul inc. relined clutch. Interior very good condition with seats & door panels reupholstered, orig headlining. New WoF/Reg. $30,000 ono Ph Derek 021 390 518, email derekbrehaut@gmail.com MEM NORTH OTAGO
1953 SUNBEAM TALBOT 90 DHC. $25,000. Full rebuild in great condition. Full records of restoration about 14 years old. Few spares. In full working order. Floor change conversion and drives well. This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors Ltd on behalf of the owner.
TWO OF BURMAN RP 3 SPEED GEARBOXES both 1948 complete but no levers. $150 the pair. Also quantity of Panther M70 engine parts available. Ph 03 732 7060, email gen4use@gmail.com MEM WEST COAST BUICK 1919 R estored in the late ‘60s. Has been on many rallies and is due for another restoration. Phone Patrick 027 313 9102, Motueka MEM NELSON VINTAGE CAR REPAIRS
All Classic and Vintage Car restoration. • Panel making • Wooden body repairs, • Bumpers and moulding repair • Competitive hourly rate. Unit 1 11 Penn Place, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch
Phone Grant 341 5100 or 027 223 9474 granttvin@gmail.com DRIVESHAFTS DRIVESHAFTS DRIVESHAFTS We can alter or make driveshafts with fabric components to take modern universal joints and yokes, as well as performing dynamic balancing. We also carry a large range of driveshaft components for cars, trucks, industrial and marine. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz PENRITE ENGINE COOLANT A colourless hybrid-organic non glycol based corrosion inhibitor designed specifically for use in Veteran, Edwardian, Vintage and Classic Car cooling systems. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz
1930 MODEL A PHAETON. $22,000. O wner has permission to re-register. Black plates on hand. Need 2 tyres. Brakes require work. Engine goes well. Gemmer steering box, g/box, diff are good. Needs a rewire. Body has no rust, only primed with thin coat of black paint. No Rego or WoF. Sold as is – where is. Location Te Aroah. Vehicle being marketed by Rushmore Motors Ltd on behalf of the owner.
1937 NASH LAFAYETTE 400 SEDAN. $22,000. Location north of Westport. Runs and drives nicely, WoF & rego. Paint work average. Factory radio and heater. Overdrive. 6411 miles. Spare gearbox. Complete restoration 1992. Slight issue with the gearbox where 1st and reverse lag slightly. This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors Ltd on behalf of the owner. Beaded Wheels 39
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MINI TRAVELLER 1964, R estoration project. Front wings cut off, usual mini rust. No Rego, have ID plate/BMH cert. Doors, front panel, rear doors & hinges, rear & side and catches, tank. Rear seats and wood trim remains. Engine available. Contact AndrewFWilson@outlook.com M EM AUCKLAND
1952 MORRIS MINOR CONVERTIBLE. F ully restored body, new upholstery and hood, new tyres and body rubbers. Many receipts. Spare parts 60,485 miles $18,000 ono. Ph Val 027 222 3413, valmax@xtra.co.nz
475-500-20 TYRE, new, never been run. Open to realistic offers. Also F28 Oldsmobile motor, 6 cylinder. Has been reconditioned, never run. Open to realistic offers Phone: 027 833 3580. MEM CANTERBURY
1954 CITROËN LIGHT 15 MOTOR CARS. O ne is a runner with Rego on hold the other great for parts. Another is available for parts. Also a 1976 Mercedes 450SL. Need to be sold, will accept any reasonable offer. Located in Lepperton. Contact Colin Johnston or direct to the owner Graeme Walker on 06 752 0644.
1934 PLYMOUTH DELUXE SEDAN (INCL SPARES) Restored in Superb condition. Full Leather interior, 2 Pot Paint, Near new white walls, High ratio Diff, 12v electrics. Owned car 30+ years, doesn’t get used enough, so time for a new owner. $45,000 neg Phone 027 263 6946.
BEATTIE LT16 SINGLE SEAT RACE CAR A new build completed in 2022 as a ‘tribute’ to the quintessential front engine Formula cars of the 1950s. Beautifully designed and engineered. A stunning looking car race proven and very competitive in historic fields. VCC and MSNZ Log Books $65,000 or near offer. Contact Brian (Christchurch) 027 285 5156 MEM BANKS PENINSULA
1968 WOLSELEY 1300 In very good original condition and a very usable car for club events. Has taken part in quite a few rallies over the last few years including the Mt Cook rally. Always gets a lot of comments wherever it goes. Asking $10000, but will consider any serious offers. Any questions or for more photos flick me an email at discoveryv8.mc@gmail.com. MEM GORE
VINTAGE & CLASSIC QUARTZ halogen bulbs. Replace your existing bulbs without rewiring the headlamp assemblies. Up to 100% brighter than your existing Tungsten bulbs. Will fit most reflectors fitted to Pre & Post war cars and motorbikes. Also available in single filament 55 watt P22 & BA15 bases for use in spotlamps and mechanical dip reflectors. Most bases and configurations available in 6v & 12v. Further info: Norm & Jan Sisson, sole NZ Agent. Phone 027 311 6563, Amuri Motorcycles, 2C Birmingham Drive, Christchurch. Email modelboatsupplies@snap.net.nz
PAIGE DAYTONA 1922 A good touring car with plenty of power. On 12 volt with a 5 speed gearbox. Reason for selling, advancing years and car not being used much now. Call Owen Hayward 022 354 6252 or 09 523 1164 or omjhayward@gmail.com MEM AUCKLAND
STANFRED AXLE STANDS. A set of four that I RENAULT 4CV 1953 r estored, goes fantastic. Load purchased 7 years ago and have never been used. of spare parts include spare engine and gearbox. BMW-R100S MOTORCYCLE, 1981, 4 9,000 miles, ex UK, have owned the bike since 1984, comes with all They are the 4000KG Model. Am asking $260 ono. $18,000. Ph 021 102 8717, sangimmie@gmail.com original fittings, e.g. fairing, gauges, H/Bars. has WoF Ph Tony 0274 798 798, tony.maddocks@xtra.co.nz MEM HAWKE’S BAY & rego. Ready to ride away. Asking price $11,000. MEM WAIKATO For more info Ph Jeff Rogers 022-131-7235, Email kiwijeffian@gmail.com MEM CANTY 40 Beaded Wheels
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MAGNETO AND COIL WINDING SERVICES Magneto repairs, coil rewinding, work guaranteed. We buy and sell magnetos of all types except aircraft. 728 Waimutu Road, RD2 Marton 4788. Phone Warwick 06 327 3849, 027 281 8066, walandlynn@farmside.co.nz MEM RUSHMORE MOTORS LTD can market your Veteran, Vintage or Classic car immediately. We have great success with most makes and listing a vehicle is completely free. We hold a huge database of prospective buyers and we endeavour to match sellers with buyers. If you have an unused vehicle sitting in your garage and would like your bank balance considerably enhanced, give us a call on 027 2245 045 inc a/h. rushmoremotors@xtra.co.nz
1929 CHEVROLET 3 owners, extensive mechanical refurbishment over last 10 years, body pretty much original, no rust. Upholstery original, good condition no holes or tears. Has hydraulic brakes fitted with all new brake fittings. $22,500. Ph 027 272 0918 stan289@xtra.co.nz MEM OTAGO
1934 MORRIS MINOR COMPLETE AND ORIGINAL. Restoration project for great little car. Dry stored since 1980. Last registered 1966. Contact Phillip, Phone 06 867 7359 or plcook@xtra.co.nz MEM GISBORNE
1931 FORD MODEL A UTE L H Drive. Imported from USA. Great original condition - warranted and registered. Only selling as deceased estate. Cal. Historical vehicle 151 number plate. Situated Whangarei, $50,000. Ph 021 411 601 jubert1245@gmail.com MEM NORTHLAND
1954 MG TF 1250. T ime has come for my beloved MG to go after 24 years. Ground up restoration to a high standard in 2000. Travelled 16,500 since all over NZ without missing a beat. Matching numbers very original. Offers over $45,000 invited. Phone Kevin 027 365 1938. MEM CANTERBURY
1969 FIAT 125, REGISTRATION EG928, 1 608cc, NZ registered, new springs, shocks installed, professionally lowered. Mini Cooper exhaust system, all modifications certified by a engine bay plate, repainted from blue, to red, new carpets and steering wheel. 85,893 miles, twin Weber carbs. Full service history, professionally valued at $29,000, offers please. Ph Jeff Ford 027 313 6964
1967 MGB MARK 1 BODY. British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate 96/1226. Wire wheels, leather seats, radio, oil cooler, anti-roll bar, pack away hood, black tonneau cover. Set up for touring, extensive restoration in past years. Current rego and WoF. $26,000 Don 07 8497268, leroydc@xtra.co.nz MEM WAIKATO
BALANCING BALANCING BALANCING, We can balance most vintage and single cylinder engines, fans, driveshafts etc. Work is carried out on a modern digital machine. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz
Looking for Vehicle Parts? Motors, gearboxes, carbs, panels, wheels, accessories, miscellaneous & more. What do you need for your restoration? Contact marlborough vcc. we have sheds full of used parts. email: tandhwin@xtra.co.nz VINTAGE ENGINE SHORT BLOCKS We can in most cases rebuild your short block using modern shell bearings, new pistons and rebuilt oil pump. Please contact us for more information. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz
VINTAGE TRUNKS made to order or stock sizes. Dust proof and waterproof. Phone Allan 06 844 3959 or 0274 469 331 Napier, acjones760@gmail.com MEM 1936 CHEV SEDAN, d ismantled. Car in good condition. Spare car and other parts. Sell as one lot, offers. Ashburton Parts Shed. Contact Gavin ph 03 308 2297. ASHBURTON BRANCH 1965 JAGUAR 3.4 M OD Very good condition. Receipts. Recent engine, P/S, full brake overhaul, partial panel and paint, front seats reupholstered, new seatbelts, some new chrome, new wire 18MM TO 14MM SPARK PLUG REDUCERS wheels. Beautiful in opalescent pale blue and Also 7/8” to 14mm spark plug reducers now navy trim. Sublime to drive. $48k peterinpuahue@ available $16.10 each. Spark plug washers also gmail.com 027 932 0624. MEM WAIKATO available. Ph 03 359 0565 or 021 128 9252 or www.vintagefordparts.co.nz Beaded Wheels 41
MARKET PLACE
FIAT 509A 2-SEATER ROADSTER with dickie seat. Originally restored for 1971 international rally but sadly not used since although it has always been garaged and regularly turned over. 56,484 miles. No WOF or reg. 3 spare engines, hundreds of parts, original handbook. $43,000 ono. Ph Barry +64 276 625 934, mountaingoats@outlook.co.nz
MITSUBISHI MIRAGE GLXI 1994 171,000kms. Last owner 14 years. Had lots of TLC. New tyres, muffler, brakes and fluids changed in last 5,000kms. Great little car, simple to maintain. Will require F/R shocks sometime soon. Can be sold with WoF & Rego. $2,000 (ono). Ph 021 217 7043. LOCATED WAIKATO
MORRIS MINOR 1949 LOLITE M orris 1000 motor and gearbox fitted. Nice reliable little car. Reasonable offers. Phone Robert 027 444 1333. MEM HOROWHENUA
TOWBAR FOR BMC 1100/1300, modelled on a UK design and easily fitted. Fine for light trailer or boat (or rear bumper protection!) Weight 5kg and dismantles for economical shipping. Offers, Ronald 07 347 8490 MEM ROTORUA
1962 FORD GALAXIE A ll original in great condition. All paperwork available for compliance. $36,000. Ph 021 294 8521. MEM AUCKLAND
VETERAN PARTS Jaeger clocks speedos small large, Boa constrictor horn, Lucas bulb horn, Bosch ZR6 mag, Stewart speedo, Bosch DF4 mag, Bosch dual mags. Also Mini Cooper 1275s MKll project, papers. Ph 07 348 4227. MEM ROTORUA
PEUGEOT 504TI AUTOMATIQUE, 1979. 110,000 miles. There is a problem with the transmission. Extensive bodywork and a proper paint job. Offers over $2000. Located in Wellington. Phone or Text. 027 490 4529.
1939 OLDSMOBILE (X2) FOR RESTORATION. First year of full coil spring suspension. 3.3 litre petrol engine with 3 speed manual column shift. Black - body is fair, interior rough, engine seized, everything there. Beige – body rough, interior likewise, most parts are there. Ph 021 215 8841, mcgaval@outlook.co.nz MEM NORTH SHORE
1923 T COUPE. D onald Duck’s grandma had one. Ruckstell 3.1 gears. Reg & WoF. Owned 54 years. Sorry to have to sell my two Model Ts $25,000. Kapiti Coast 04 902 1718.
WOODEN WHEELS m ade for your metal work. Steam-bent felloes, any shape spokes. Ph Vern Jensen 06 323 3868, 16 Osborne Terrace, Feilding, gransuz16@gmail.com MEM MANAWATU
42 Beaded Wheels
1915 FORD T ROASTER. Gas lights from new. Early Hall Scott Ruckstell 3.1 gears. Reg & WoF. Bought from Gordon Hughan Carterton, first Ford franchise holder 1907 before U.K. November 1910. I didn’t buy it new, only owned for 54 years. $35,000. Ph 04 902 1718
PISTONS PISTONS PISTONS PISTONS FOR VETERAN, VINTAGE, CLASSIC & ODDBALL ENGINES. We can supply piston sets for most makes and models. All piston sets come complete with rings and gudgeons. We have over 700 listings at competitive prices. M S COOMBES LTD 344 ST ASAPH ST, CHRISTCHURCH Ph: 03 366 7463 E: INFO@MSCOOMBES.CO.NZ PENRITE OILS W e carry a large range from vintage to modern engines. Gearbox, diff, SU dashpot and water pump grease. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz
MARKET PLACE
1954 CITROEN LIGHT 15 TRACTION AVANT. $29,995. 15 yr. restoration. All receipts. Reg and WoF on sale. Location Sth Canty. 4 cyl. Manual. No rust. Original seat uph. New Citroen Chevron indicators and brake light in back window. Mileage 48047 miles. 3 extra tyres. Fuel gauge not working. Dip stick supplied. This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors Ltd on behalf of the owner.
1989 FIAT UNO STING. 7 5,729 genuine miles. This 1934 FORD SEDAN R unning driving car. Flathead v8. car has been in the family since new. Rego currently Ph Rob 021 294 8521, happyone080808@gmail.com on hold. Project car. Complete but some repairs required. $1500. Martin Chapman, 027 326 5119. MEM TAURANGA.
1934 CHEV STANDARD JUNIOR. L eft front guard with or without fender well. Have moulds for glass rear guards and running boards for above car. Ph Denis 022 0799 169, Waikato.
WANTED
1936 – ‘38 BUICK rear axle or parts thereof wanted. Is required to get the car on the road. Ph 027 313 9102 Patrick Smith Motueka. MEM NELSON 1952 ARMSTRONG SIDDELEY WHITLEY 6 6,000 miles from new. Resprayed 2 tone green and rechromed around 10 years ago. Interior good and largely original. Current owner since 2016. Used regularly on VCC runs. WoF & Rego. $14,000. Masterton. Ph Simon 022 600 3239. MEM WAIRARAPA
BEDFORD JO - chrome bumper bar any condition. Phone - Gavin 021 222 7918 or 034822-485
MEM OTAGO
BSA LIGHT FOUR SPEED GEARBOX, chainwheel and three spring clutch parts. As fitted to C12 BURMAN GEARBOX m otorcycle parts wanted (for and C10L. Also splined main shaft for the light 3 Panther). Burman BAP or BAP-H gearbox or parts speed gearbox. Any parts considered. Contact wanted. Top pivot type, as fitted to Panther HWTs Stuadamson09@gmail.com, 027 923 9500 and in particular the mainshaft, as shown, 11½” MEM NORTH OTAGO LOA, with or without gears. David Broadhead 021 DUCATI CUCCIOLO PARTS ANYTHING CONSIDERED. A lso after BMW R65 parts Anything considered. Thanks Ph John 021 651988 or email guzzimonza@gmail.com MEM AUCKLAND
MODEL A FORD SHOCK ABSORBERS New Zealand made, new as original. If your old shock can be rebuilt, cost is $240. Postal Delivery extra. Arms and all connecting parts available. Phone Jack 03 352 6672, 0274 322 041 Christchurch. M EM CANTERBURY
324 762 dbroadhe@xtra.co.nz MEM AUCKLAND
STILL LOOKING FOR HD 1924 TO 1929 26J/JD SIDECAR MOUNTS. Front clamp socket and cap and rear bracket for frame mount. These are for the larger 1 3/8 inch balls. Alternatively, complete front and rear attachment setup with small size balls. Contact Tony 020 414 85160 or email rtpremnivas@outlook.com MEM AUCKLAND WANTED TO BUY PLEASE. Can someone help, WANTED MAGNETOS, Watford F4, FM4, FM6, thanks. Ph Mike 027 259 3335. ML and Bosch ZR6 six cylinder models complete or any parts welcome for my 1928 Austin 20/6. Also wanted any collection of vintage spark plugs if anyone is downsizing their collection. Ph Neil 027 320 7525, email hammonds@farmside.co.nz MEM HAWKE’S BAY. WIRING DIAGRAM WANTED f or a 1929 Chevrolet. email Ces. tqman@gmail.com MEMBER, TARANAKI.
1937? OK SUPREME FRAME, frame number 22376, has repair to front down tube, will need redoing. Offers. Ph Wayne, 07 863 7232, pam.wayne.c@gmail.com MEM BAY OF PLENTY
7/8 INCH HANDLE BAR TOP CLAMP. O ne or two as per photo. 1¼ between centres, 5/16 dia holes, ¾ wide, 1¾ long. Ph Wayne, 07 863 7232, pam.wayne.c@gmail.com MEM BAY OF PLENTY
BMW MOTORCYCLE METAL TANK BADGES, 60mm diameter. The one shown has prongs at the back but there are also ones with holes for screws. Either are acceptable but must be metal. Ph Adrian Collins, 022 186 2559, mcadvnz@gmail.com
Beaded Wheels 43
SWAP MEETS & RALLIES
Irishman
Creek
Rally 2024
NORTH SHORE BRANCH VCCNZ
Open Day and Car Show SUNDAY 21 APRIL 2024 Gates open 9.30 – 3.00
All members of VCC Branches and One-Make car clubs are cordially invited to join the North Shore Branch of the Vintage Car Club for: Car Show Coffee Cart Tours of the restoration and storage sheds All day sausage sizzle – with real snarlers
Prizes
Masons Road, Albany
Just turn up at any time on Sunday, ideally in your club eligible vehicle, any time on Sunday 21 April
G ORE VINTA GE CA R CLU B 2024 will be the 70th Irishman Creek Rally. We intend to organise a 3 day event, starting Friday 31st May – probably at the Canterbury VCC Clubrooms (Cutler Park). We will start Saturday morning, 1st June in the Shef-
SUN
MARCH
17
field area and finish in Fairlie.
8am – 12 noon -Waimea Street
Rally packs will be available on Thursday evening,
YOU BRING IT • YOU SELL IT • YOU PROFIT
30th May 2024 in the hall at Cutler Park. We will open the bar and encourage everyone to pick up instructions on the Thursday evening – as time will be critical on the Friday morning.
ADMITTANCE Adults $5 Children free
Phone Dave 03-327-4156 evenings.
Huge variety of items for sale. Colouring competition and games for the kids Opportunity to meet club members and learn about our club. If you have items you wish to sell, please come along and set up a stall!
CONTACT 44 Beaded Wheels
$10
Includes one free entry Some inside stalls available
As usual Fairlie is the base for Saturday night and Sunday night.
SELLERS STALLS
Katherine: Gerry:
021 261 6986 027 2334634 / 03 2085806
All vehicles entered in National And International Rallies must hold a current VehicIe Identity Card (VIC).
NELSON
SWAP MEET BAZAAR 9 MARCH 2024
Speedway Grounds – Landsdown Road, Richmond Site sales and registrations now open online at
www.nelsonvcc.org.nz/book-a-site email nelson@vcc.org.nz Food and drink available on site Site and cars for sale: $20 (both above include 1 entry) Entry non-site holders $5 Gates open; 7am stall holders 8am public.
NEW CONTACT FOR BOOKINGS
SOUTH CANTERBURY BRANCH VCC
VCCNZ Ashburton Branch
SWAPMEET
Saturday 4 May 2024 Club Grounds 86 Maronan Road, Tinwald Ashburton No Dogs Allowed • Catering by Ashburton Lions Club
Site Bookings to Cathy Sweetman Email: ashburtonswapmeet@gmail.com Phone: 021-372087
GATES OPEN 7.15AM
SWAP MEET BAZAAR
Site Bookings Phone Michelle 027 284 6422 scvccswapmeet@hotmail.com Committee Chairman Colin Johnstone ph 03 693 9093 NO DOGS ON GROUNDS
Saturday
6 APRIL 2024 NEW VENUE.
ORARI RACECOURSE (Site holders 7am) Public from 8.00am Held wet or fine
Swap Meet starts at 7.00 a.m. Entry: Sellers $10.00 Buyers/Browsers $5.00 Children (under 12) Free Vintage Car Display - Car Parts Old & New - Motoring Books & Manuals Collectibles – Bric-a-Brac Refreshments – Sausage Sizzle – Bacon Butties
Venue: Wellsford/Warkworth Vintage Car Clubrooms Satellite Station Rd –off SH 1 – 3km south of Warkworth All enquiries to 027 423 8122 or wellsfordwarkworth@vcc.org.nz Beaded Wheels 45
SWAP MEETS & RALLIES WEST COAST BRANCH
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
SCENICLAND RALLY
SATURDAY 23 MARCH 2024
Saturday 2 March – Monday 11 March 2024
Club Captain’s
Closing date for entries 30 January 2024
TOUR ITINERARY Saturday 2nd: Arrive Whanganui Sunday 3rd:
Thursday 7th:
Dannevirke to Masterton
Whanganui -Ohakune Whanganui (via River Rd, Fields Track)
Friday 8th: Masterton – local run
Monday 4th:
Masterton to Feilding
Whanganui to Napier (via Taihape Rd) Tuesday 5th: Napier – local run
For entry forms and information pleae contact the Rally Secretary, Judy Hay by email: westcoastvcc@gmail.com or phone 021 0864 5364
Saturday 9th: Sunday 10th:
Manawatu Branch - Ruahine Ramble
Wednesday 6th:
Napier to Dannevirke
Monday 11th: Homeward Bound
For entry form and accommodation details please email
Glyn Clements at nicc@vcc.org.nz
HOSTE
C MAN D BY VC
AWAT U
BRANCH
AALL N TTHH NATTIIO N O A N 9 229
E L C Y C R MOTO Y RJAanLuLary 2025
25-2 7
UPDATE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS subscription notice
National Rally Based out of Manawatu Branch Clubrooms Palmerston North
Followed by 4 days of Hub Tours 28 – 31 January
Entry Forms out in July 2024
46 Beaded Wheels
Please advise National Office of any changes of address or sales/ purchases of vehicles. Email admin@vcc.org.nz or post details to VCCNZ, PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140
MEMBERSHIP NUMBER Please quote your membership number in any correspondence or phonecalls with National Office.
TRADE DIRECTORY
UPPER CLASSICS NEW ZEALAND
FOR THE REPAIR & RESTORATION CLASSIC OR VINTAGE CARS & MOTORCYCLES
OF
ALL
CARBURETTOR SPECIALISTS
▼
Done the old way – the right way Specialist in restoration of Vintage and Classic cars and motorcycles
EMAIL stephen_winteringham@hotmail.com
FREEPHONE 0800 862 476
www.classicchrome.co.nz
▼
▼
COPPER – NICKEL – CHROME
Full reconditioning service Carburettor body, re-bushing and shafts supplied. Specialising in Weber, Holley, SU, Stormberg, etc
40 YEARS TRADE EXPERIENCE Contact: GRAEME TULLOCH Ph: 027 612 2312 or 06 368 2202 Email: tullochfamily@xtra.co.nz ı tulmac.co.nz
FREE ADVICE
RESTORED CARS MAGAZINE AUSTRALIA First published in 1973. Most back issues are available. All vehicles featured are restored or in original condition. Events, How To’s and Australian motoring history are a specialty. VETERAN - VINTAGE - CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE SERVICING ENGINEERING SERVICES
Repairers and Restorers of Vintage and Classic Instruments Speedo Cables repaired or made new to order 13 Fleming Street, Onehunga, Auckland
MARLBOROUGH MAGNETOS
MACHINING - BORING - HONING ALLOY & STEEL WELDING CONTACT: LEE WALKER-HOLT 021 036 8635 info@walker-holt.nz TITIRANGI-AUCKLAND
INSTRUMENT REPAIRS
Exchange armatures available
Hard-to-get parts manufactured
Coil Only service for DIY assembly
Magdyno and Maglita units restored
Curiosities investigated
☎ 027 577 8328
VISA – MASTERCARD AVAILABLE EDDIE FORD PUBLICATIONS P/L 29 LYONS ST, NEWSTEAD VIC 3462, AUSTRALIA.
PH 61 3 5476 2212 RESTOREDCARSMAGAZINE.COM
Hamco
INDUSTRIES
Motorcycle & Car a Wire Wheel Repairs & Restorations
Magnetos Rewound in New Zealand using the best available materials Magneto repair and restoration undertaken
Subscription Rates
Australia 6 Issues $69 or 12 issues $135 New Zealand 6 Issues AUD$117 or 12 issues AUD$231 Overseas 6 Issues AUD$150 or 12 issues AUD$297
Experienced expert technician Bruce Chaytor ph 021 631 700 Nicolette Prangley 021 166 8374 nap.chaytor@gmail.com 5 Gibbs Place, Kinloch, RD1, Taupo 3377
We Specialise In • Custom Made Spokes • Speedway Wheels Rim and Frame Lining • Wheel Building & Truing • Complete Wheel Restoration
Vintage – Classic – Modern Craig & Debbie Hambling
Phone 06 324 8345
Mobile 027 231 7864 410 Green Road, RD 6, Palmerston North Day or Night
Contact Paul Radmall at paul@magnetos.co.nz
Beaded Wheels 47
LATEST CLUB INFORMATION
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Welcome to 2024. Leading up to Christmas I was fortunate to be able to attend many branch functions throughout the country presenting 50-year membership awards. I was encouraged by the efforts that branches put in to make these events very special for the recipients. It highlighted to me the number of volunteers we have working at branch level. From committee members, kitchen helpers and building caretakers, without these many people giving up their time, the club would grind to a halt. Throughout 2023 Motorsport NZ ran a “Thank the Volunteers” campaign where at each event volunteers were recognized. I would like to suggest that we take the time at our events to thank all those behind the scenes. Many volunteers are not specifically trained for the roles they put their hands up for but want to give something back to
the club they enjoy. Some are giving it a go for the first time and with a little bit of help and guidance make a big difference to our club. I am a firm believer that the more you put in the more you get back so please recognize their efforts. While we were unsuccessful in having Neil Beckenham our Registrar appointed to the board of LVVTA in November he still represents us on their council. As a guest I attended my first council meeting with him and experienced first hand some of the good work they do for all vehicle related hobbyists throughout the country. We both also had a great meeting with NZTA while in Wellington. I felt that they understood the value of retaining our motoring heritage and were happy to discuss some of the issues we have been having, including returning vehicles to the New Zealand fleet. We came away from the meeting with a clear
pathway for us to work through and from this a flowchart will soon be available on our website mapping out the course to take. Our first Executive meeting for the year, being held in Christchurch in March, is fast approaching. The main item for consideration is our governing structure. Branches will now have received the discussion paper from the Management Committee with recommendations based on the last March meeting and workshops. In addition a discussion paper from Wellington Branch. It is great to see a branch come together and prepare such a document which will enable a broader open discussion at the meeting. I would encourage all members to speak with their committees about these papers so that your opinion can be represented through your delegate. We are now only two years away from the 2026 Vero
VCCNZ MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
CLUB CAPTAIN NORTHERN REGION Glyn Clements 021 0833 4081 nicc@vcc.org.nz
EDITOR, BEADED WHEELS Kevin Clarkson 021 0270 6525 kevinclarkson@vcc.org.nz
PRESIDENT George R. Kear 027 221 4332
CLUB CAPTAIN SOUTHERN REGION Mark Wilkinson 021 168 6068 sicc@vcc.org.nz
Rebecca George 021 293 7714 mgmt2@vcc.org.nz
REGISTRAR Neil Beckenham 021 588 536 registrar@vcc.org.nz
mgmt1@vcc.org.nz
president@vcc.org.nz
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Diane Quarrie 027 333 1329 pastpresident@vcc.org.nz SECRETARY/ TREASURER Vacant
SPEED STEWARD Ray Sanders 021 632 563 speedsteward@vcc.org.nz
NATIONAL OFFICE NEWS Office Hours Monday to Friday 9.30am to 1.30pm. admin@vcc.org.nz National Office worked through the festive period, taking advantage of the quieter time to catch up on some processing. DOMAS/VIC applications continue to stream in resulting in processing times of typically 4-6 weeks from receipt of the completed application at National Office. Please ensure that you send applications into National Office in plenty of time.
48 Beaded Wheels
Linda Duffell
Karen Proctor
Office Administrator
Mgmt Committee Liaison Officer
SUBSCRIPTION INVOICES
Membership renewal invoices for the year 1 November 2023 to 31 October 2024 were emailed or posted to members in September 2023. If you haven’t received your invoice, let your Branch Secretary or National Office know asap. Membership cards have been posted to all financial members. We have some unidentified
Andy Fox 03 314 3763
Murray Trounson 03 339 8830 mgmt3@vcc.org.nz
International Festival of Historic Motoring being held in Nelson. Rally Director, Ray Robinson, has already assembled a great team who are starting to pull ideas together. To help with planning we are asking for as many members as possible to complete a quick survey so we can capture data for planning purposes. On page three of this issue there is an advert for this and a copy will be emailed directly to you. It will take less than a minute to complete but will provide the team with numbers to help make this event a success.
George Kear VCCNZ National President ARCHIVIST Don Muller 03 385 6850
archivist@vcc.org.nz
VCCNZ LIFE MEMBERS Andrew Anderson Roger White Norm Dewhurst Rod Brayshaw John Coomber
payments that we have not been able to match to members. Please contact National Office if believe you have paid your subscription fee and have not received your membership card.
Office or your branch for a copy of the minutes if you did not receive them.
Members whose renewal invoice is unpaid at the time of the March 2024 Executive Meeting will no longer be a member as per the constitution and will have their membership cancelled and lose any previous continuous membership.
Please note: Financial membership of the Vintage Car Club of NZ Incorporated is a requirement to be insured under the VCC/Vero Insurance Scheme.
If you intend to resign please notify the National Office.
Please include your membership number in all communications with National Office including payments to the National Office bank account. This can be found on your membership card in the top right-hand corner.
AGM AUGUST 2023 MINUTES
The AGM August 2023 minutes have been emailed to all members with an email address. Please contact either National
VCC VERO INSURANCE SCHEME
PAYMENTS TO NATIONAL OFFICE
SOUTH ISLAND CLUB CAPTAIN
NEW VEHICLE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Introducing new South Island Club Captain, Mark Wilkinson, from Otago Branch.
The VTC are our official committee charged with overseeing VIC certification. We welcome new expertise to the VTC
Mark has been a VCC member for 48 years having joined the Otago Branch in 1976 at the age of 18. He has served on the branch committee including section rep, branch club captain as well as two stints as chairman – 2012 to 2016 and 2022 to 2023 which also included being the branch delegate on the National Executive. Mark has organised numerous Dunedin to Brighton Veteran Rallies and continues to assist when required helping with branch events.
Mark’s aim, like his North Island counterpart, is to encourage members to drive their vehicles on our roads unimpeded, attend branch and interbranch runs plus encourage younger members to join the club. He is available to assist branches in any way he can plus provide guidance when required along with assisting with the implementation of the proposed new management structure and constitutions.
Mark spent his entire working career in the financial sector starting in 1976 and retired in September 2023. Mark and wife Nicola live in Mosgiel, Dunedin with their young spaniel Leo and have an interest in all club vehicles – veteran to P80.
Mark Wilkinson VCCNZ Management Committee
We are pleased to announce and welcome two new members to the Vehicle Technical Committee (VTC). Verdon Heath from our Horowhenua branch. Verdon has been a member for over 17 years and is very knowledgeable on motorcycles and European vehicles. Les Bognuda is from our Taranaki branch. Les has been a member for over 24 years and has an extensive knowledge of English vehicles. Both these members have been appointed to the VTC because of the excellent work they have done as VIC branch officers. Both members have
worked extensively in the specialist field in the motor trade as warrant of fitness officers and compliance certifiers. We are looking forward to working with them and sharing their combined knowledge and contribution to the Vehicle Technical Committee. Neil Beckenham VCCNZ Registrar
Verdon Heath
Les Bognuda
AWARDS Congratulations to the following members who have recently been awarded their 50 and 60 Year Awards.
McKenzie, Roderick Hurley, Hank Ridd, Nevelle Jensen, Vernon Clements, Glyn Turner, Bill Van Zon, Arnold Rose, Maxwell Diamond, David Jones, Edith (Joyce)
Poole, Bruce Brehaut, Alan Don, Rodney
50 YEAR
60 YEAR
Central Hawke’s Bay Central Hawke’s Bay Central Otago Manawatu Manawatu Manawatu North Shore South Canterbury South Canterbury South Canterbury
Central Hawke’s Bay South Canterbury South Canterbury
Beaded Wheels 49
BRANCH NEWS
Ashburton: The hippies posh picnic featuring Best Dressed winners Phil Kenny and Sue Tanner (2nd and 4th from left)
ASHBURTON
Ashburton: Posh picnic Stuart and Ann Hart best picnic setup.
Ashburton: Chairman Peter Jacob presents Donald and Carol Williamson with gift at posh picnic. Ashburton: Posh Picnic group with 1886 Benz.
TREVOR BEGG
Qwen and Lorraine Wilson organised another good P60/80 run, taking us through the Rakaia Gorge to Oxford for lunch, then down to Ohoka and Broadoak to view a collection of cars and some well set out gardens. In November we held our Posh Picnic after a short run around town. This included driving through Lochlea Lifestyle Resort, with some interested residents coming out to have a look and to talk with the drivers. We ended up at Coniston Homestead on the outskirts of town. This is owned by Ashburton Branch members Donald and Carol Williamson, and they were given the task of judging the best dressed for the era of their vehicle, and for the best picnic setup. Best Dressed went to Phil Kenny and Sue Tanner (the Hippies) with their Chev Impala. Best Picnic went to Stuart and Ann Hart. Donald and Carol also had their museum, old garage, old shop and church open. Donald had his replica 1886 Benz three-wheeler motor car out.
AUCKLAND
PETER WOOD
All sections of the branch have been active, especially the motorbike section. Their December meeting had 23 motorbikes of all makes in the car park, while
50 Beaded Wheels
guest speaker Al Gill brought his Honda CB 750 into the clubrooms. Both Al Gill and William Baird were welcomed into the club as new members. Motorcycle Rally results saw Mark Beston get first place P60 and Ian Bell first place P80. Our Christmas pot luck dinner was well attended, and allowed us to catch up on all the goings on in the branch. Santa McAlpine, Green Elf Roger, and their helpers were well received. At the end of the monthly run 13 vehicles were displayed at the Buddhist Temple where members were made very welcome by the monks. It was especially good to see the Prices out in their 1930 Chev roadster after recent problems. The veteran section has been busy with Phil Henley taking his 1906 Cadillac to the Waikato Veteran Run while Dennis Lowe has sorted out the knock in his 1903 Curved Dash Olds. Mat Metcalfe is improving his 1912 Hudson with new wiring. John Morrison is still sorting out his 1916 Briscoe, and has also fixed the gearbox in his PW Lago Talbot. It was at the Hunua 100 Rally Garden Party that 50-year awards were given to Stipe Borich, and Merv Stowers, with 60 year badges to Norm Dewhurst, Bob Ballantyne and Chris Wood. The branch extends condolences to the Forster family upon the death of Brian.
BANKS PENINSULA DON GERRARD We welcome new members; Andrew Roxburgh with Citroen L12, Daimler DB18 Drophead coupe, ‘29 Dodge, ‘60 Rover P4; Duke Elliot with ‘63 Porsche 356; Ian Perry with ‘70 Ginetta G15, ‘67 Sunbeam Stilleto, ‘70 Sunbeam Imp; Brendan Leach with ‘61 Morris Mini Cooper Rep, ‘53 Francis Barnett, ‘86 Lotus 7 Rep, ‘90 Mazda MX5; and Derek Milne with ‘67 Jaguar MK II. A busy run-up to Christmas with the annual Hawkswood Hillclimb Sprint in November, held in conjunction with The Country Gentleman’s Historic Racing & Sportscar Club, seeing 15 VCC competitors, of which seven vehicles were of the Jaguar marque, with David Owen’s C Type Rep taking out Class FTD. John McDonagh picked up the branch Use-Not-Abuse Trophy for his consistent performances throughout the year in his MKII Jaguar and Mistral race car. A week later, The Rallye Monte Carlo flagged away the largest field ever to compete in this now very popular and successful bi-annual event. As usual an eclectic array of vehicles and crews drove the 14-odd hours from various starting points with vintage cars sharing the laurels this year.
Banks Peninsula: Gavin Bain’s Bentley.
Our Branch’s 28th year of hosting New Year’s Day Picnic at Little River attracted 278 pre-1980 models, with many more later examples squeezing in, all soaking up the sun, music, and atmosphere that never fails
Auckland: Alan Price 1930 Chevrolet roadster and head monk at Blossom Festival.
to provide a great kaleidoscope of veteran, vintage, historic, and classic vehicles.
Banks Peninsula’s 28th hosting of the New Year’s Day picnic at Little River. Auckland: Neville Olsen and his midget.
Auckland: Al Gill, 1971 Honday CB 750. Banks Peninsula:
Beaded Wheels 51
CANTERBURY
Canterbury: Run organiser Andrew Marshall (left) takes a ride in the Replica 1895 Benz owned by Donald Williamson.
Canterbury: The branch International was a popular ride.
COLIN HEY
Our ever-popular Homestead Run was held in November. This was a 170km run, firstly west to the historic 1864 Coton Cottage in Hororata, then south to the magnificent rhododendron gardens at Awa Awa Reserve at the base of Mount Hutt, before heading east to finish in time for a picnic lunch in the amazing gardens of the famous Coniston Homestead in Ashburton. Over 80 cars and their enthusiastic drivers and passengers thoroughly enjoyed the day. There were well over 40 cars registered for our Annual Vintage Rally in early December, which this year finished at the Loburn Domain for field tests and lunch. It is great to see some renewed interest for this era of vehicles in our branch, with a few now being regularly driven by the younger family members of some of our more senior members. A few of these cars, and a good number of veteran cars, put on a great display at the Hororata Highland Games three weeks earlier. This created a lot of interest from the huge crowd that always attend this stunning event. Over 40 riders entered the Annual Motorcycle Rally in November. It started at Cutler Park and finished at the Loburn Abbey airfield, home of replica Tiger Moth and Hurricane aircraft. The after-match debrief was held at the nearby Ashley Pub – a full and interesting day for all. One of the most important events was the Children’s Christmas Party on 18 December. The usual array of running races, games, fire engine and vintage truck rides kept the 50 or so children occupied until the big man arrived on a veteran Wolseley to dispense gifts for them all. Great to see so many happy children and parents enjoying our facilities and creating lasting memories.
CENTRAL OTAGO
Canterbury: Father Christmas arrives on a veteran Wolseley. (Photo Henry Little).
Central Otago: Neville Ridd receiving his 50 year badge, presented by SI Club Captain Mark Wilkinson. Canterbury: Magnificent rhododendron gardens at Awa Awa Reserve.
DON YEAMAN
Fourteen cars lined up for the November Sunday run, which took us down SH8 to Roxburgh where we were greeted by Nevin Gough. Nevin gave us a bit of a rundown on his beautiful collection of vintage cars while we checked them out with more than just a bit of envy. From here we carried on to Ettrick, where we had a picnic lunch and a good look through the sheds of Alistair and Neil Stevenson before heading home. Our Christmas function for this year was lunch on Sunday 10 December. It was quite well attended with a good number showing up in their club eligible cars. After a great lunch the South Island Club Captain, Mark Wilkinson, presented Neville Ridd with his 50-year membership badge. Mark then gave us a short talk on some of the changes that are and will be taking place with the National body. Our Chairman, John Martin, then carried out the club presentations with Murray Pryde winning the Tapper Trophy with his 1909 De Dion Bouton. The Tapper trophy is for the best restoration with emphasis on the work done by the owner. The Loudon Trophy, people’s choice, was won by Gary Fredrickson for his 1941 Mercury 2 ▲
52 Beaded Wheels
door hardtop. Ewen Duthie was presented with the Charman’s Award in recognition for all the extra work and time that he had contributed to the branch in the past year.
EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY
BRUCE SEDDON
We can report that EBOP member, John Twaddle, repeated success at the Morris Minor National Convention at Labour weekend by achieving Best in Show with a perfect score in the concours judging. This is something John has been working towards for several years since he shipped his lilac Morris Minor Million out from Ireland in 2012. Described as being in factory concours condition when sold, John wondered if the condition quoted was at the entrance to a wrecker’s yard when the car arrived. Clearly Irish blarney was engaged by the seller. Determined to preserve and restore an iconic milestone car John set to and engaged Whakatane’s best automotive artisans to panel, paint, upholster and mechanically refresh the 1961 Morris Minor to better than factory fresh
Central Otago: Loudon Trophy winner Gary and Maree Fredrickson with their 1941 Mercury 2 door hardtop.
condition. This has been a multi-year project with John achieving successively higher concours judging points at National Conventions year after year until this year’s 500 score. Why a Morris Minor Million? BMC built 350 Morris Minor Million cars as a tribute to the first British car to reach one million sales. They were all two door saloons with standard mechanical specifications and were all finished in lilac paintwork and white interiors. 30 were built as left-hand drive and the remainder 320 for the right-hand drive market. They were built in late 1960 for release for sale in January 1961 to mark the production of the millionth Morris Minor. John’s car is #197 of the 350. Only 49 are known to survive, good reason for John to save and cherish it. By the end of Morris Minor production in 1971 more than 1.6 million had been built.
FAR NORTH
MURRAY CORMACK
Although there was no branch rally in November, the long-established Far North Tour organised by Northland Branch was in our area. The day was enjoyed by members from various branches, and finished with a dinner at the Mangonui Cruising Club. December saw us concentrate our Christmas event around our clubrooms, with a potluck festive lunch,
Central Otago: Tapper Trophy winner Murray and Jenny Pryde with their 1909 De Dion Bouton.
EBOP: Gavin & Deanne’s children at Ohiwa – Generation 4 – Photo Les Costar.
EBOP: John Twaddle and Morris Minor Million – what a pair of winning smiles! – Photo courtesy of John.
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and relaxed and enjoyable socialising by members. We completed our monthly meeting before the lunch, including the presentation of 35 year badges to Keith Lyndsell, Vince and Naomi Mason, and Mike Pooley. All these members have contributed a great deal to the successful running of our branch over the years. The socialising and festive activities dominated up the day, with the planned vehicle events in an adjoining paddock canned through lack of time. A great feature of this end-of-year event was the number of members present, both old and new, enjoying our club facilities.
arrival each navigator had to throw three chocolate mini-Santas into a bucket. Then they had to shoot a dummy with a Nerf gun, exceedingly trying in the very windy but fine conditions. A shared picnic lunch followed with the run concluding midafternoon.
HAWKE’S BAY
ESTHER SMITH
Our annual hill climb in November drew a small but enthusiastic number of competitors this year. It is held on a disused section of sealed highway which
This year for our Annual Safari we headed down on a well organised trip to the Wairarapa, staying in Martinborough. We attracted a good turnout of 25 cars which met at the Hatuma Café in Waipukurau before making their way down the back roads, including a weather scarred SH52, through Waione and Pongaroa, to Masterton. A highlight of the trip was a visit to the Fell Locomotive Museum in Featherston. The Fell engines, where the friction-drive system of smooth horizon-
was bypassed several years ago because of its steepness and sweeping bends with little camber. The lowest time posted was 27.86 seconds by Kent Larsen in his E Type Jaguar. Neil McDonald and his VW-powered Munro Special were heading for a fast time until a persistent misfire forced its withdrawal. Thirty-three people attended the Tuesday Ramblers’ Christmas dinner held at the local racecourse. It doesn’t seem like twelve months since the last one, but a social gathering by like-minded VCC enthusiasts was enjoyed and is not to be missed however soon it comes around. Branch Secretary Katherine organized a popular Christmas Run which attracted more than 20 cars. A short run took us to the lunch venue at Dolamore Park, a picturesque park and motorhome stopover run by the Gore District Council. Upon
tal powered wheels on the locomotive held against the side of a raised centre rail, were used to pull trains up and down the Rimutaka Incline from 1878 to 1955. A fascinating place to visit and all run by volunteers. We also visited Wairarapa member Dave Patton’s place to view his collection of mainly Daimlers and heard about his business of manufacturing replacement hubcaps. Then, to add variety, we took part in a gin tasting at the White Swan Hotel in Greytown. Carol Eager arranged a Christmas lunch out for the ladies with some games and quizzes. Imagine a pass the parcel with an instruction of pass it on to the person with the greyest hair! Our Branch night featured a mystery auction where members brought along a wrapped parcel which is then auctioned off. This year’s auctioneer, Derek Gorden, dusted of his gavel and did
GORE
BILL SHEDDAN
s Hawke’s Bay: Lemmon’s Museum.
s Hawke’s Bay: Lunch venue.
s Hawke’s Bay: The bbq cooks in action.
Far North: New member Tony Adams’ 1930 Chrysler 66 with others at Far North clubrooms.
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s Far North: The Masons receiving their 35yr badges from Keith Lyndsell at Far North Clubrooms.
Gore: Neil McDonald holding the Barry Clearwater trophy for Best New Zealand Built Special with his Munro Special.:
Gore: Christmas Run, Hartley Hay’s 1936 Ford Cabriolet. Gore: P Bevin in his XK140 under power.
Gore: Kent Larson with his E Type Jaguar with novel bonnet support.
a great job of persuading people to open their wallets, all for the club’s benefit. The last hurrah was a barbecue lunch at Steve Trott’s shed to view his recently relocated extensive collection of memorabilia, followed by a drive out to Adrian Lemmon’s fascinating museum.
MANAWATU
BRYAN ABRAHAM
In November 17 members met at Kimbolton before heading away on the branch November Overnighter. Lunch was at Taihape, then it was on to the Tangiwai Disaster Memorial site before travelling south to Wanganui for an evening stopover. The next day took participants north to Jerusalem, then to Ohakune before returning to the Manawatu. Sixteen members joined Wellington and Horowhenua members on their November Kapiti Midweek run, when they travelled to the Manawatu to visit the Villa Candotti Gardens near Colyton. At our club night in November we caught up with presentations of 25 and 35 year awards. In December we held our branch Christmas Dinner where four
Manawatu: Picnicking at Dudding Lake north of Bulls on New Year Day.
Manawatu: left to right - Manawatu VCC Branch members Maurice Wasley, Bill Turner, Glyn Clements and Vern Jensen after being presented with their 50year Long Service Awards by George Kear (far right), VCCNZ National President.
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Marlborough: All smiles on the Linkwater Run.
Marlborough: The LInkwater Run was well supported by both bikes and cars this year.
members were presented with their 50 year badge by National President George Kear. A second Christmas Dinner was enjoyed by the many members who attended the branches December Noggin and Natter at Murrays Irish Bar in Feilding. December ended with Tony Haycock giving members a more in-depth look at the Traversee Du Paris (an article on this featured in the December/January Beaded Wheels). The new year began as usual with Len’s New Year Day picnic - this year at Dudding Lake north of Bulls. As with previous years, members from neighbouring branches joined Manawatu members for a relaxing start to a new year.
MARLBOROUGH
Nelson: Cars on Molesworth Station. Nelson: L-R Rex Smith, Mike Bryan, Gordon Dacombe, Jo and Vern Hoffman, Paul Lewis at entry to Molesworth.
LINDA LAING
After a quiet October, November saw us out and about with a joint Car and Motorcycle run to the Linkwater Tavern. This is an annual event with the cars going one way and the motorcycles the other and then the reverse coming home. It is always a well attended run and this year was no exception. It was great seeing so many motorcycles making the effort. The Blenheim Riverside Railway at Brayshaw Park was the venue for our Christmas outing. A trip with one of their restored engines into town and back was a pleasant evening out followed by a get together back at the clubrooms. The weather was kind and a good evening was enjoyed.
NELSON
RAY ROBERTSON
Our building group, led by Paul Lewis, has been progressing stage one of the improvements which includes a covered outdoor area incorporating all weather surfaces and landscaping. To date earthworks have been carried out followed by the concrete slab. Steel work is next, to be followed by roofing. Two shipping contain-
Nelson: Paul Lewis directs the hardfill spreading at the new Clubrooms Outdoor area.
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North Shore: Well prepared Club Captain John Castle starts the November run.
ers have had a lick of paint and been lifted into place. The South Island National Easter Rally committee have been beavering away with all manner of preparations for this event. Entries are now invited. There is also the
option of entering a tour of Golden Bay following the National Rally. Gordon Dacombe’s plans to establish an annual event which will pass through the three branch areas of Marlborough, Nelson and West Coast, and called the Coast to Coast, took a step in the right direction with a small team kicking off their investigations in Marlborough. Traversing the Molesworth Station, overnighting in Hanmer, and crossing the Rainbow Station. Ultimately this run will overnight in Murchison followed by a third day rallying through to Reefton and then to Paroa, south of Greymouth. The inaugural rally will have taken place on 19 – 22 January 2024.
North Shore: Chevrolet fire tender at Orewa Santa Parade.
NORTH SHORE RICHARD BAMPTON Sadly, we report the passing of Brian Cullen. A long-time and enthusiastic member, regular winner, with his wife Gaylene, of the Rally cup for frequent attendance, committee member and editor of Progress for many years, and a consistent presence at Thursday Morning where his friendliness, knowledge and skills, especially spray-painting, were appreciated by all. He will be greatly missed. Although November’s inclement weather deterred many from attending the November run through Riverhead Forest, the rain, which had fortunately laid the dust on the gravel roads, stopped and the scenery and smell of pine trees gave the participants a good appetite for their lunch at Huapai Golf Club. Later in November the branch was well represented at the Mairangi Bay, Orewa, and Browns Bay’s Santa Parades, with the branch’s fire tender being a star at all three events, and the flag carrier for Couldrey House at the Orewa Parade. The final Thursday Morning was celebrated with a barbecue, followed by a general gathering and vehicle show on Sunday 17 December. This was very well attended with around 80 people and sightings of many previously unseen vehicles. Arnold Van Zon was presented with his 50-year badge and a Packard cake, baked by committee member Barbara Stubbs. John Higham was presented with his 35-year badge and Ian Watson his 25-year badge. Club Captain John Castle is to be congratulated and thanked for organising a good year of events for all our members. (See NSVCC Facebook page for all the photos.)
Otago: Moped Rally Veitch’s Norton.
Otago: Moped Rally gets to Roxburgh. Rotorua: Bob McKay (left) restored a Minor utility and discusses the sports version with owner Larry.
North Shore: Badge recipients Ian Watson (25 yrs), Arnold Van Zon (50 yrs), John Higham (35 yrs).
North Shore: Tough looking Series 2 Landrover belonging to Andrew Lunt.
Nelson: Storage container lifted into place, Nelson Clubrooms.
North Shore: WWII Corgi. Owned by NSVCC member Allan Lorenzen.
Beaded Wheels 57
OTAGO
Rotorua: Maurie and Shirley Crowe at the Posh Picnic . 2015.
Rotorua: late Rotorua member Bill Skelton. Photo David Tomlinson
Rotorua: Bill and Adelai Skelton, dressed in the era of their Austin 7, 2018 posh picnic.
South Canterbury: Alastair and Nola Day’s 1939 Chevrolet and Grant Stewart’s 1929 Durant - All American Day, Caroline Bay, Timaru.
South Canterbury: Bill and Shona Weir’s 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 4-door hardtop, All American Day, Caroline Bay, Timaru.
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Sth Canterbury: Lex Westoby’s 1981 Waddon Rotax 125cc racing bike, on displayed at clubrooms .
MARION MCCONACHIE
Kevin Mason and Bruce Murray arranged the Commercial and Veteran Rally which had only six entries. Starting from our clubrooms we did a little sightseeing around the suburbs before heading for Brighton, then returning to the clubrooms for lunch and prizegiving. Graeme Duthie gained best time in his 1917 Model T, with Rex McDonald gaining best time in his commercial Model A roadster. A good number of our members attended the Windsor Rally in Oamaru, with Gil Edmunds first in the field tests, Bruce Murray first motorcycle, Stu and Lynn Neil first P80, Stu Campion first PV, Brian Walker second vintage, Bruce Bush third vintage, Nevin Gough first veteran. Keith Heineman was with Ewan Duthie in his ‘57 Austin A90 who gained second overall. Great to see our members supporting other branch events. The following day we had the Moped Rally with very few entrants, but those who attended enjoyed their journey over the top road of the Peninsula out to Harwood for lunch and then returning along the bottom road back to the clubrooms for afternoon tea. The National Veteran and 70th Dunedin Brighton run will be over by the time you read this. We had 80 entrants by closing time in the middle of December and I understand there were more to come.
ROTORUA
RONALD MAYES
Members were saddened to learn of the deaths of long-time and well-known members Bill Skelton (92) and Maurie Crowe (87) in November. Bill and Adelai had driven their 1929 Austin 7 on the Club Captain’s Run only a week earlier, a scenic drive around the Ngakuru area followed by lunch at the Waiotapu Pub. In earlier years they had rallied their car over much of the country. Maurie’s 1962 EJ Holden had also been an actively rallied car. His wife Shirley passed away a year ago. Many members attended their funerals with their club cars. Less than a week later newer member Tony Lipanovic passed away after a long illness – his wife Jude had enjoyed last year’s Sulphur City Rally, driving a Toyota Corolla. The Car in the Room feature of club nights recently included chairman David Tomlinson’s 1933 Rolls-Royce 20/25 limousine. This car had required some serious maintenance but is now a very
South Otago: 51st Clutha Rally Beaumont
Taranaki: Sitting in the passenger seat of the Dodge Tourer is His Worship the Mayor of New Plymouth Neil Holdom and in the rear is Jayne Molloy and Councillor Marie Pearce all ready for the Inglewood Christmas Parade.
roadworthy and enjoyable car. The writer followed it along the winding road from Lake Tarawera to the city in his Triumph 2500 and was impressed by the R-R’s
and was well attended by members. Presentations by VCC National President George Kear were to the following - 50-year badges: Dave Diamond, Max Rose and
cornering abilities. New member Larry Freemantle had his 1952 Morris Minor Special at the December meeting: a Minor with major differences. As it had started life as a utility its separate frame made possible the fitting of a two-seat open sports body, hand crafted by Larry himself. The lightweight body along with some engine tweaks give it impressive performance. On 21 January 2024, if the weather gods have allowed, we will have held our 11th Rotorua lakefront car show, donations by participants and visitors once again going to the St John Ambulance Association.
Joyce Jones; 60-year certificates: Alan Brehaut and Rodney Don. Several members displayed their vehicles in the White Ribbon event, held at Caroline Bay. We were saddened to hear about the passing of Russell Leech and John Pateman. John was a keen motorcycle enthusiast, having restored a number over the years, and participating in various runs with his bikes. The Noordam cruise ship visited Timaru on 28 December, and several passengers visited the branch clubrooms, meeting members and viewing vehicles. The annual New Year’s Day picnic and parade at Fairlie, a showcase of 20th century motoring, was well attended by members.
SOUTH CANTERBURY
SHANNON STEVENSON
The annual Safari Weekend took place at O’Neill’s Reserve near Cave, attracting several campers with mostly vintage vehicles. The All-American Weekend, organised by Grant Stewart and supporters, took place on the weekend of 11-12 November. The Saturday run took participants to Kyle Park Transport Museum at Levels, while a display at Caroline Bay took place on Sunday. The Vintage, Veteran and Commercial Run which took place on 19 November was organised by Gavin and Michelle Munro. Participants travelled west of Timaru to Hadlow, before going south to Holme Station and Southburn before reaching the Munro’s olive farm at Otipua. The Christmas party and 50-year badge presentation took place on 2 December
SOUTH OTAGO
NOELINE MILNE
The November Wednesday Run took participants to Kaka Point via Glenoamaru, with a visit to the lighthouse, then to a member’s home where Irene Sutton shared her memories of growing up in the area. In December members went from the Clubrooms to Kaka Point, New Haven over the new bridge, Jacks Bay then to Owaka for refreshments and Christmas wishes at the hotel. The Clutha Rally was another successful event, with participants coming from many regions, and the weather playing its part with beautiful sunshine. Beginning at the Town and Country Club in Balclutha entrants travelled through Hillend
Taranaki: The line up of entrants cars in the Inglewood Rail station yards at the end of the Fern Lodge Christmas Run in December.
Taranaki: Julie Evans standing in front of her Morris 8 and Alli Bolland with her Morris Woody Van all ready for the Inglewood Christmas parade.
South Canterbury: Rodger and Barbara Baird’s 1923 Overland - All American Day, Caroline Bay, Timaru Waikato: Waikato’s youngest member Maddi Carter-Hayes with Branch Chairman Graham Boswell cutting the 65th anniversary cake for the Waikato Branch.
Beaded Wheels 59
Waitemata: Les and his supporters. Les is astride (43). Photo Colin Mewburn.
farmlands, past the Mount Stuart wind turbines, then to Waitahuna, stopping in Lawrence for the lunch break in a relaxed picnic atmosphere. Several wandered the shopping area, a great opportunity to look through the Vintage Club’s vast collection of all sorts. Next door Mr Robertson allowed us to look through his grounds with much to see in the way of a restored water wheel, water features and walkways. Following the lunch break we travelled on to Beaumont taking in the new bridge. The hotel was the venue for raffle draws and prize giving. The overall winner was Murray Lloyd of Milton driving a 1952 Triumph. Three long service badges were awarded at the November meeting by South Island Club Captain, Mark Wilkinson. Ian McDonald and John Cook 25 years and Gary Beaumont 35 years. Mark spoke of the issues that are needing to be addressed within the Vintage Car Club so we can adhere to upcoming regulations.
Congratulations members.
TARANAKI
to
these
dedicated
COLIN JOHNSTON
New members Brian and Julie Evans organized a Christmas rally for members in December. It was a chance for them to try and devise an event themselves after participating in the clubs Breakfast run in October. It was encouraging for our committee to see them step forward to show members some new ideas. Brian suggested that the run could end up at the Inglewood Fern Lodge hotel with the hotel putting on a Christmas roast meal. The members supported the idea and it was very satisfying for these two new members to see over 25 vehicles turn up, along with 61 members. The run took entrants east of Inglewood along back country roads with some great questions to answer and clues along the way. It was a great way of socializing for an end of year event at the hotel.
The lucky winner was Bruce Wallis driving his Rolls-Royce. Christmas Parades in Waitara, Bell Block and Inglewood were supported by members driving their vehicles, all decorated to add to the atmosphere. A very successful way of raising funds by a Silent Auction of donated goods was held at the club rooms, with the auction terminating at the December Noggin and Natter. With over 38 lots up for sale, and great participation by members, a very good donation was able to be added to the club funds.
WAIKATO
Waimate: Tea Pot Rally lunch meeting place at Kurow, 23 November.
Waimate: Free Christmas dinner winner Peter Bland.
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ELLE TERRILL
Waikato Branch celebrated its 65th Anniversary combined with our membership awards dinner in October. The celebrations were MC’d by our branch chair, with the immediate past National President, Diane Quarrie, presenting awards to those receiving recognition from 25 to 60 years of consecutive membership. Our youngest
Wanganui: Neil Farrer’s Austin A90. Winner of the Taihape Gumboot Rally.
Wanganui: Jack Bullock’s 1967 Triumph Herald. Wanganui: Robert’s ThunderbirdRobert Baines 1956 Thunderbird under restoration. Vehicle has all hand controls.
West Coast: Christmas Parade.
branch member (16 yrs) cut the birthday cake at the end of formalities. Our annual swap meet in November was quieter than we had hoped because of very poor weather on the day, we are hoping for better weather next year. November’s veteran rally had 11 cars on a tour of some of our finest South Waikato roads, starting and finishing at Kihikihi with a lunch stop in Otorohanga. December’s club run took participants to New Zealand’s only dedicated artillery museum, which has recently opened in Morrinsville. The museum is a private collection with the intention of preserving the history of those who had served with the New Zealand Artillery, particularly those from Waikato. Details on the museum can be found via Google. Motorcyclists had another wet ride in December to visit a Japanese motorcycle collection with some pristine bikes and an excellent host. Despite the weather 13 people turned up with nine bikes and two cars to enjoy great Waikato roads and lunch at Morrinsville.
WAITEMATA
ROB CHAPMAN
One of our branch’s senior members, Les Harris, is now in The Guinness Book Of Records as the Oldest Active Motorcycle Racer in the world. Les has competed at our events at Chelsea and at Manuni Coastal Hill Climbs as well as racing since the 1950s
with motorcycle clubs throughout the country, including the Classic Motorcycle Racing Register. He competed with his son and granddaughter in the same race at the last meeting at Pukekohe. Les is a real character, well-liked and respected around the pits with his highly modified BSA Bantam. The official handing over of the framed Guinness Book of Records Certificate at a recent club night was a surprise to Les as he was the last to know about the award which had been kept secret from him. Branch members visited Ardmore Airfield to view the progress of a WWII Mosquito. The skeleton of the plane was laid bare, with several workstations around it with tasks laid out. Many questions were asked, and it was obvious our guide knew the details of the plane inside out. It is of wooden construction. All the plywood comes from Germany while the new engines come from California. A gymkhana is a fun event, and the club is very lucky in that Chris and Mike Hope-Cross have continued to invite us to their farm in the lower Waitakere Ranges. This a combined club event with the Austin Register and Jowett Javelin Club. The usual gymkhana obstacles were in play. Entrants enjoyed the after-match barbecue and smoked trout.
WAIMATE MAUREEN CHAMBERLAIN In November the Waimate and Oamaru members held their annual Tea Pot Rally. Members met between the Kurow bridges in the Waitaki valley for a picnic lunch before starting an enjoyable run down the valley through the back roads towards Oamaru. The much sought after Tea Pot trophy was won by an Oamaru member this year after it was handed over from the last winner from Waimate. Members entered their cars into the Waimate Christmas parade along the Main Street of Waimate to Seddon Square. In December members met at Riverstone near Oamaru for a great Christmas lunch. We met at the clubrooms and ambled our way to Riverstone via a mystery run, with things to do and find on the way. The mystery run winner had their lunch paid for. Congratulations to Peter Bland for getting the closest travel time and for thinking up a great way to complete the run directions by taking a photo of a poster along the way (a photo requirement of partner on a swing) as he was travelling alone. Well done, Peter.
WANGANUI
IAN HIGGINS
November is the month for our joint camp-out rally with the Gisborne Branch, the site and hosting alternating each year. This year it was Eastern BOP’s turn to host at the Ohiwa Holiday Park. We
Beaded Wheels 61
West Coast.
had a strong turnout of cars from both EBOP and Gisborne to enjoy another camping weekend. Events commence on Friday night with a light meal followed by a relaxed rally on Saturday. However, branch pride and an interclub trophy is at stake. By dint of a fault free score by Phil and Margaret Leeming, accompanied by a typically humorous tie breaker selfie photo, the home team retrieved the trophy. Somehow it appears the trophy has changed hands every year. The first interclub rally was held 37 years ago at a suitable midpoint – camping on a sheep station at Matawai in the middle of nowhere between Gisborne and Opotiki – the camping theme of the rally began from that location. However, in examining the photos of that first rally of the attending cars lined up outside the Matawai Hotel we noticed a green Model A phaeton – the exact same car Tony Bartlett had arrived in this year from Gisborne. It is a marvellous unrestored original time-warp which had been driven to Matawai by Tony’s father. On top of that, Tony’s son and daughterin-law Gavin and Deanne drove over in their own four door sedan Model A with their two young children safely belted into child seats in the back – generations three and four active in the club. Tony says it is great to know that he is going to be able to pass the phaeton on to the family for future generations to enjoy.
WEST COAST
ZOE GOUGH
November run to Berlins 19 Nov 2023: After a damp week Sunday proved to be a
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
PASSING LANE In this column we acknowledge the recent passing of club members. Information is supplied to Beaded Wheels by VCCNZ Branch Secretaries.
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West Coast: Christmas Parade. West Coast: Taking in the scenery.
lovely day right from the outset. A mixture of cars and bikes enjoyed a lovely drive along the Lower Buller Gorge to Berlins. where we were joined by more members. Colin and Elaine Peacock in their Rover 90 were already there with family and friends. A short while later Allan Giles drove up in his 1976 Duzgo. We were well looked after by Dean and his staff, the sun shone, and the garden was pleasant to sit in. Overall a very relaxing, enjoyable afternoon. We visited Warren Stratford’s John Deere tractor museum on 10 December. The museum is situated in a beautiful spot with amazing views overlooking Westport. It not only has a large selection of John Deere machinery, but all different kinds
showed us his 1949 Chevrolet 3100 pickup and invited us into his home for a coffee and a look at the amazing view. A very informative, friendly visit and we wish Warren all the very best with the auction of his collection on 23 Feb 2024. We were so pleased to have been able to experience it. Our thanks go to those who support our local town’s Christmas parades. Sadly, I have no pictures to show from other areas except a couple from our Reefton Parade. You will see that Graham Martin took this on board with his great 1949 Land Rover. The McKay twins were there with their red Massey Ferguson tractor in full Santa kit towing a colourful crew on a trailer. Guy Stewart downsized and looked as though
of memorabilia. We were made extremely welcome. After a look around, lunch, and a demonstration and talk by Warren, he
he was thoroughly enjoying his new mode of transport.
Bleakley, Ian Taranaki Brown, Judith Central Otago Colliss, Stephen Central Hawke’s Bay Crowe, Maurice (Maurie) Rotorua Dougherty, Norma King Country Edmonston, Trevor South Canterbury Goldsmith, Owen (Goldie) Bay of Plenty Hayes, Neville Southland Izard, Richard Taupo
Jones, Peter Bay Of Plenty King, John Nelson Lipanovic, Antony (Tony) Rotorua Lowe, Steve Taranaki Miller, Val Gore Nichols, David Wellington Pateman, John South Canterbury Richardson, George Far North Roycroft, Denise South Canterbury Skelton, William (Bill) Rotorua
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