Chrome dreams

After rain washed out last year’s event, the Morrinsville Motorama has returned in style. Aaron Leaman and Mark Taylor checked out the action.

It was a proverbial field of dreams as hundreds of gleaming, chrome-adorned cars took centre stage in Morrinsville this weekend. After rain washed out last year’s event, the Morrinsville Motorama returned in style as 6000 motoring enthusiasts flocked to the town’s polo grounds on Saturday and Sunday.

About 600 cars representing a pantheon of motoring shared the spotlight with an equally impressive lineup of trucks and motorbikes.

Now in its 13th year, Motorama committee coordinator Todd Sherburd said the two-day festival appeals to a wide range of motoring fans.

‘‘Our view is if it drinks petrol or diesel, it has a place here,’’ Sherburd said.

‘‘Every vehicle and its owner has a unique story and it’s that diversity that makes this event so special. Over the course of a few hours, we transform this bare paddock into a city of cars and bikes and trucks.’’

For Hamilton man Gordon Jamieson, owning a turquoise blue-coloured 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is the fulfilment of a dream. One of the car’s striking features is a large chrome continental bumper.

‘‘For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. I was born in 1957 so I’m the same vintage as my car,’’ he said.

Jamieson purchased the car from the US about a year ago for $68,000. He predicts its value will only increase.

‘‘I could eventually sell it for a lot more but what would I do with the money? I already own my dream.’’

Among the more contemporary vehicles on display was a Kenworth Legend 900 limited edition truck and trailer.

Truck driver Brodie Murray, 27, spent 12 hours getting the truck and trailer ready for public display.

‘‘This truck was registered in 2018 but in a way it’s already a classic because it’s a limited edition vehicle,’’ Brodie said.

‘‘It’s definitely a great feeling to have people stop and admire what you drive.’’

‘‘Our view is, if it drinks petrol or diesel, it has a place here.’’ Todd Sherburd

MARK TAYLOR/STUFF Hamilton man Gordon Jamieson shows off his 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air at the Morrinsville Motorama.

Brodie Murray spent 12 hours getting his Kenworth Legend 900 limited edition truck and trailer ready for display.

Kids take a train ride of sorts around the Morrinsville Motorama.

PHOTOS: MARK TAYLOR/STUFF There was plenty to keep motorcycle enthusiasts happy at the Morrinsville Motorama.

Mark Henrikson from Sulphur City Rod and Custom Club Rotorua and Jeff Barron of Matamata Rod and Custom Club were in their element.

Justyce and Billie Campny check out the trucks on display at the Morrinsville Motorama.

Ann Ganley dressed for the occasion.