Nelson Classic Car Museum
Travelling through the Top-of-the-South? Then you absolutely must make time for the Nelson Classic Car Museum. The collection has more than 150 stunning veteran, vintage and classic cars, all displayed in a massive, specially built indoors complex. There’s also the fantastic Little Engine Eatery, a jam-packed gift store, and plenty of free parking for everyone, including RVs. A highlight at the car museum is the world’s fastest Mini. Built right here in Nelson, the zippy little red and white 1964 Mini Cooper S travelled to Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, where it clocked a speed of just over 144mph (231kmh).
“The Mini is actually not the fastest car in our collection,” says museum aficionado Kate Cooper. “It’s second only to the Ferrari 456, which can hit 188 mph/302 kmh.” No wonder Classic American magazine says this is “New Zealand’s coolest car collection”, a claim that guarantees you’ll be dazzled by this awesome lineup of gleaming automobiles. To add to the spectacle, they’re parked in front of a series of elaborate building facades – some are inspired by local buildings of yesteryear, like the Kiwi Four-Square dairy, an art deco garage; and others are a tribute to the classics, like the Rover’s Return.
“We love our cars,” says Kate, “and even though we know the collection inside out, we’re always discovering new things about the auto industry, design styles through the decades, engine ingenuities and oddities – it’s a real treat to be amongst these incredible cars every day!”
Whether you’re a die-hard car enthusiast or just enjoy a touch of retro flair, you’ll be captivated by the range of cars on display. From grandad’s Angela to that elusive Ford Zephyr of your teenage dreams, to glamorous gangster movie cars, a pink Cadillac ready for a highway cruise, and the sleekest of Jaguars (all 13 of them!) – there’s something to capture everyone’s imagination.
Located between Nelson and Richmond, and just 2km from Nelson airport, Nelson Classic Car Museum invites you to soak up the vibe and majesty of one of New Zealand’s finest car collections.
“Make sure you add this museum to your itinerary when visiting Nelson – you won’t be disappointed!” Mike, Trivadvisor
