ARE YOU READY?

One of the only events left standing this summer (at the time of print) the iconic Repco Classic Car and Hot Rod Festival at Kumeu is forging ahead with their plans to yet again host a massive summer festival at the Kumeu Showgrounds. The 27th running will be held on 14–16 January 2022, and it will be as big as ever, with an expected 3500 cars and 100 bikes bringing around 25,000 people to the show, which now occupies the entire 16-hectare showgrounds site to capacity. More than 350 swap sites, 120 trade stands, and more than 25 food and drink vendors will fill the paddocks surrounding the main drawcard — the invitation-only show hall, where new cars will be unveiled and some old favourites showcased. However, anyone who’s attended the show in previous years will know it’s often those hidden among the hundreds of cars on display outside the show halls that can deliver the unexpected goodness we all seek at these events. Other key drawcards return — the People’s Choice award, the swap sites, the Jack Daniel’s BBQ competition, a pedal car competition, best dressed competitions, and a kids’ hot rod race on Saturday night. Camping returns for swap site holders, members of displaying car clubs, people displaying cars, or vendors. Entertainment this year will include the likes of the Rocking Roller-Coasters, Matt Joe Gow, Tony & the Dauntless, Swampland, and Mema Wilda rocking the stage. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute band The Refugees are playing on Friday night. For those not wanting to go all-out, after hours drive-in movies will feature on Friday night for the first time, taking place in the oval. What movies will be screened will be determined by public voting on their Facebook page in the lead-up to the event. Entry is only $20 on the gate, with kids under 12 free, and $15 for those who come as passengers in a show car. For more information or to book a trade, swap, or campsite, see kumeuhotrodfestival.co.nz.