British Car Museum, Haumoana 4172, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Believed to be the largest collection of British cars anywhere in the world, the British Car Museum in sunny Te Awanga represents a lifetime’s passion – it is the personal and eclectic collection of Ian Hope. Ian has amassed over 450 cars and commercial vehicles (Austin, Bedford, Commer, Ford, Hillman, Jaguar, Morris, Riley, Standard, Vauxhall and many more) with over 38 Morris Minors alone!
Many rows of cars are on display and enthusiasts could easily get lost among the vehicles. Little rounded A30s stare at the sleek lines of Jaguars – among them a 2.8i auto and a 1982 XJS HE 12 cyl.
There are also Jowetts, Lanchesters, Wolseleys, Sunbeams, Triumphs, Rovers, three hearses and even a 1923 Dennis Fire Engine used by Hastings Fire Service at the time of the Hawkes Bay Earthquake Disaster in 1931. The hand-cranked siren is still attached and Ian encourages children to turn the handle for fun!
Many of the vehicles on display are rare and Ian welcomes you to look around, but warns that there may be some dust and oil among the cars. “I’m not as young as I was and just can’t get around them all as often as I’d like any more” he says ruefully. Volunteer cleaners very welcome!
Epic New Zealand Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
Own or work here?
