2024 Kumeu Classic Car & Hot Rod Festival: Classic Restos - Series 54

It’s day one at the Kumeu Classic Car & Hot Rod Festival for 2024, and it's set-up day, providing an opportunity to explore what's on offer at the 30th Birthday of Kumeu before the huge crowds arrive. The family-owned and operated event will host over 1000 Classic Cars and Hot Rods over the three-day event. But there is much more to Kumeu than great cars; there are over 100 trade sites, including specialty tools, car parts, memorabilia, retro clothing, and antiques. Additionally, there are over 350 swap sites and endless food stalls, which, of course, Fletch get to sample.

On day two, Fletch talks with some exhibitors. Andrew, a regular guest each year on Classic Restos at Kumeu, shows off his latest acquisition, a 1930 A Model Pick Up. 

Derek from the Mini Club of New Zealand shares that they are exhibiting for the first time as a club this year. One of the cars on display is a 1970 Mini 850 in 'as-is' condition from a barn find and a beautifully presented 1968 Morris Cooper MkII (UK Build). 

Another first-time Club exhibitor is the Model A Ford Club of New Zealand. Established in 1972, the club has 250 members and a strong representation at Kumeu this year. The Model T/Model A cars on show are recognised as classics, are an important part of international motoring, and are loved worldwide.

A spectacular and large display is the blank and gold 1985 Kenworth W Model with a 1977 Pontiac Trans Am on board in matching livery owned by Charlie, a tribute to the iconic film ‘Smokey and the Bandit’.

Fletch comes across a replica of the original Hot Rod Racer. These are often called the poor-man's toys, purchased as wrecks for as little as $10-$15 and stripped down with only the bare essentials, making them lighter and, therefore, faster. These cars are the true origin of the Hot Rods.

Fletch then catches up with Zoe, who has her classic caravan on display, a fully restored caravan that Zoe has owned for six years and undertook an 18-month restoration. Purchased for just $1,600, the caravan virtually disintegrated when towed to her property, but that didn’t deter her. Today, Zoe proudly displays her finished caravan for everyone to admire. 

This concludes day two. Stay tuned for the next episode of Classic Restos at the Kumeu Classic Car & Hot Rod Festival for more beautiful cars.