Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring 2026
There is something special about Nelson this week. The Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring 2026 is currently underway across the Nelson Tasman region, bringing together an extraordinary collection of veteran, vintage, and classic vehicles from around New Zealand and overseas. The event runs from 15 to 21 March 2026 and is one of the region’s standout happenings this month. Previous festivals have attracted over 1,000 vehicles, and this year’s programme continues that proud tradition.
A special week in Nelson
At The Beachcomber, it has been a real pleasure to welcome a number of guests staying with us while the festival is on. Events like this bring a wonderful atmosphere to the region, and it is always lovely to see Nelson buzzing with visitors who are here to enjoy everything from the vehicles themselves to the scenery, hospitality, and community spirit that surrounds the week.
Celebrating Historic Motoring
Held every four years, the Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring is organised by the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand and celebrates the people, stories, craftsmanship, and character behind historic motoring. This year’s festival includes rally days, public displays, scenic runs, and social events throughout the week, all set against the backdrop of the Nelson Tasman region.
For those with an interest in the event, Saturday evening’s Grand Finale is described by organisers as something that “should not be missed.” Official festival information notes that the final day on Saturday 21 March 2026 includes a full public vehicle display, followed by the Grand Finale and Prize Giving in the evening.
There is also a major public vehicle show on Saturday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at Richmond Park Showgrounds, where more than 550 veteran, vintage, and classic vehicles are expected to be on display for entrants and the public to enjoy. https://www.historicmotoring.org.nz/programme/
A warm welcome to our guests
It has been wonderful to see so many people in Nelson this week for such a unique and memorable event. We are delighted to be hosting some of the festival’s visitors and to play a small part in their time here.
Whether you are in town for the full programme or simply enjoying the buzz around the region, we hope you have a fantastic time in Nelson and enjoy everything this special week has to offer.
From all of us at The Beachcomber, welcome to Nelson and enjoy the final days of this iconic motoring festival.
