Every 4 years we celebrate veteran, vintage, and classic vehicles and the people who love them. This is an international rally that attracts participants from all over the world and New Zealand. Previous events have had over 1000 vehicles taking part.

In 2026 this exciting event takes place in the beautiful Nelson Tasman region over the course of the week of 15th to 21st March. The Nelson Tasman region is renowned for its stunning views, lovely roads, great food, craft beer, and wine, and for its fantastic weather.

2026 is also the 80th anniversary of the New Zealand Vintage Car Club Incorporated. This event will be part of the many celebrations in 2026 commemorating the beginnings of our club.

All types of club eligible vehicles have been catered for in the rally route planning, with special care taken to design routes for veteran vehicles. Rallies are planned for 5 days of the festival and follow a number of themes that will ensure you see a great deal of this beautiful and historic region of New Zealand. The final day features a large public display of festival participants’ vehicles alongside classic vehicles from the local community.

Each evening there will be an opportunity for participants to catch up, make new friends, and reminisce. Dinner will be available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday nights at a cost but the those night’s entertainment is free for all festival participants to enjoy. Wednesday night will be a special Night on the Town in Nelson City. The final Grand Finale on Saturday evening should not be missed. 

Lunches, dinners, and Grand Finale tickets will be available to purchase after registrations close in late 2025 as some options will depend on numbers attending. We’ll contact entrants with options.