Historical engines given new life in Karaka

Thought this was worth posting about even though it's just out of Auckland not Northland :-)

Vintage engines, antique motor mowers and historic aircraft will be brought to life next week in an interactive experience for the Karaka Museum.

The Karaka Historical Society, along with the Vintage Engine Restorers Auckland (VERA), will host the Karaka Vintage Day on March 28 to showcase the machinery used to shape New Zealand during the last century.

Money raised from the event will be donated to the Karaka Museum’s building fund to help house the artifacts previously on display at the Karaka War Memorial Hall.

As well as engines and equipment, historical buffs will have the opportunity to view classic cars, military vehicles and even a vintage Tiger Moth aeroplane flyover at the biennial event.

Iconic Kiwi brand Masport will also be represented with an impressive array of machinery, from milking machines to lawnmowers, manufactured by the company over the past 100 years.

The spokesperson for the Karaka Historical Society Rob Higham says the Vintage Day event, which started in 2000, attracts a large number of people from around the country.

“We try and ensure there is something for the whole family. The vintage displays are a real draw card along with the parade of vehicles, machinery and tractors. Children can enjoy horse and wagon rides while their parents can spend time perusing the vendor stalls for books, jewellery, clothes, art and collectibles.”

Higham says the new Karaka Museum is being constructed to display much of the vintage memorabilia, as its former home at the Karaka War Memorial Hall was too small to display the large collection.

The General Manager of Masport, Steve Hughes, says the company is proud to be showcasing products from its 100 year history at the Karaka Vintage Day.

“Partnering with the Karaka Historical Society and VERA was an obvious connection,” he says. “We are looking forward to contributing and celebrating our rich Kiwi history with both groups and the public on this great occasion.”

The Karaka Vintage Day 2010 will be held on Sunday, March 28th at the corner of Linwood and Blackbridge Roads, Karaka. Gates open at 9.30am.

(story from 3 news)