Big prizes up for grabs at Waikaraka Park

3 February, 2016

There’s set to be plenty of action in late February at Waikaraka Family Speedway, with around $16K in prize and appearance money up for grabs. February 20 will see the Modified Grand Prix in action, in which drivers will not only get the chance to settle old rivalries but also be in with a chance to take home their share of $4K. Almost 30 cars are already entered and will provide a great spectacle for the crowd as they race for victory. While hometown hero Jamie ‘Foxy’ Fox is known as the man to beat at Waikaraka, he’ll have his work cut out for him to stay at the head of the pack with that much cash for the taking.

The Modified Dirt Cup a week later, on February 27, will see the prize pool boost up to almost $12K, the largest on offer in the sport.

Then the ever-popular Teams Nationals will hit the Waikaraka clay on March 4 and 5. The event will see eight top teams from around the country, including the Palmerston Panthers, the Nelson Tigers, the Gisborne Giants, and the Baypark Busters, face off for national bragging rights. 

For more info and tickets, visit waikarakafamilyspeedway.co.nz.

Ayrburn Classic Car Festival

The Ayrburn Classic Car Festival will take place on the scenic grounds of the Ayrburn Winery in Arrowtown, Queenstown Lakes District, on Friday 21 to Sunday 23 March 2025, coinciding with Otago Anniversary Weekend. Set to become New Zealand’s premier classic car event, this festival promises to be reminiscent of some of the most prestigious motoring events globally, thanks to its stunning location and world-class execution.
Chosen for its breathtaking views and lively atmosphere, Ayrburn Winery adds a unique dimension to the experience, offering visitors not just a car show but an immersive day out. A celebration of motoring heritage set against the spectacular backdrop of one of New Zealand’s finest estates, the festival will showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of New Zealand’s automotive industry.
Prestige and classic car owners are invited to participate in this inaugural event. If you own a special vehicle and wish to be part of this landmark festival, please contact the event team to secure your spot.

The ultimate journey – 1959 Cadillac Commercial

An indication of where some of the money went is in the skilled, painstaking workmanship of David Wilkens, who told me he spent a considerable number of the total of 800 hours in removing all the small dents from the chrome work. About 60 per cent of the body eventually required rust removal or replacement, A new 6.2-litre Chevrolet LS3 crate motor with 317kW (431hp) has replaced the Chev 350, which replaced the original Cadillac 390ci V8. Suspension, brakes, wheels, and tyres were all upgraded, adding to the cost.
David says working on the Cadillac was a labour of love for him and his crew. It took three men to manoeuvre the grille, proving what Simon says about everything on Colin being big.