What a summer it was huh? Get jabbed for summer was the catch cry and by February we were flicked into a RED light setting as per the government Covid mandates. This setting based around the Omicron variant has played havoc with event promoters and clubs for all forms of sports and activities. The world of hot rodding has been no different with a summer full of constant cancellations or postponements. However, back in mid-January the annual Kumeu Hot Rod & Classic Car Festival was able to go ahead in the then ORANGE setting.
The 27th Annual running of the event was sponsored by Repco Auto Parts. Originally founded by the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) the event in recent years has been promoted by Ken & Desma Galvin and their daughter Nicole as well as a group of people close to them. The event includes a large swap meet, indoor and outdoor car show, entertainment for the entire family and also a BBQ competition. While the event has evolved over the years, it still remains a favourite for many enthusiasts from all over the country.
This year’s coveted People’s Choice winner was a deeply emotional one, the 1956 Chev pickup of the late Bob Armstrong, entered and displayed by his family and friends. Next up in second place was the GMS Hot Rods prepared 1932 Ford tudor “Mega Deuce” of Ian Taylor. Third place went to Brian & Elizabeth Ogle’s 1932 Ford coupe designed and built by GMS Hot Rods. Another aspect to the indoor show sheds was a drag racing display organised by Ryan Sheldon of Wild Bunch New Zealand. The outside revolving car show included car clubs, trade vendors and retro caravans all on display.
While Covid has hampered some events, cancelled or postponed others, the annual Kumeu Hot Rod & Classic Car Festival was fortunate to go ahead and those who attended had a good time as always in brilliant weather. Next year’s event planning is underway already and promises to be as bigger and better as usual as the iconic event nears its 30th anniversary.