Classic Motorcycle Mecca – Invercargill NZ: Classic Restos – Series 55

New Zealand's southernmost city, Invercargill, is the capital of Southland. It was founded in the 1850s and has a population of over 60,000. On the main street, we find ‘Classic Motorcycle Mecca’, the largest motorcycle museum in the southern hemisphere. It comprises of three historic buildings that have been renovated into three levels of motorcycle heaven.

The museum has a collection that grew from humble beginnings to around 300 motorcycles, including models from Superior, Vincent, and Velocette, and British, European, and Japanese bikes of every style, including vintage sidecars, speedway, and race bikes. The collection was originally owned by an individual who passed away, and it was thought that the collection would be sold or split up due to its size. However, Scott and Josh O'Donnell purchased the collection and ensured it was kept together at the Classic Motorcycle Mecca.

The museum also has a section devoted to Burt Monroe, of 'The Fastest Indian' fame. It showcases his bikes, history, and even some of his personal belongings. Burt spent years modifying a 1920 Indian motorcycle in Edenvale, not far from Invercargill, before setting his first New Zealand speed record (120.8mph - 194.4km) in 1940. The Oreti Beach, where he did all his testing, has also become famous.

The museum extends further to the George Begg exhibit. Begg was a talented engineer who raced motorcycles and manufactured many items, including farm equipment and Formula 5000 race cars, which are displayed here amongst his motorcycles.

The collections continue across three floors, including a Vincent Collection of 1000cc and 500cc motorcycles, the British Brough Collection – highly sought-after bikes that were considered amongst the top echelons of bikes of their time and finally, the John Britten Collection -  well-known among the NZ motorcycle racing fraternity. John had a brief but successful career, starting on Triumph Tigers and graduating to build many racing bikes for which he became well known.

Fletch loves Invercargill, the Burt Munroe story, and the Classic Motorcycle Mecca. If you venture to the South Island of New Zealand, the Classic Motorcycle Mecca in Invercargill is well worth visiting.