Sturgess Collection saved

As we reported in the New Zealand Classic Motorcycles museum in Nelson has been forced to close due to the serious illness of its co-owner, Tom Sturgess. However the iconic collection has been rescued and will move to Invercargill. Jocelyn and Scott O’Donnell, Directors of Bill Richardson Transport World in Invercargill have announced the purchase of the Tom and Heather Sturgess-owned New Zealand Classic Motorcycle collection (NZCM) in Nelson. “The Sturgess collection is considered to be a world class attraction of close to 300 motorcycles and motorcycle-focused art. The collection ranges from a 1902 Peugeot motorcycle to a 21st Century Simms Corbin Custom and includes brands such as AJS, Ariel, BMW, Brough Superior, Harley Davidson, Henderson, Indian, Matchless, Rudge as well as little known brands such as the Schwinn and Zundapp. Details are still being finalised. However, the collection will be housed within the Invercargill CBD and not at Bill Richardson Transport World. It is expected the new attraction will open to the public in late 2016 on a permanent basis. Scott O’Donnell from Transport World says “we are very pleased to be bringing this collection to Invercargill and believe it is a perfect complement to our existing Transport World experience and, Invercargill, given its strong links to motorbikes. The region is now home to three of the best wheeled attractions in the country Transport World, E. Hayes & Sons and now the New Zealand Classic Motorcycle collection and we hope that this will encourage more people to visit Southland. We look forward to honouring Tom and Heather and the collection’s Nelson roots whilst also adding our own unique Transport World touches. Offshore offers had been received, but it was Tom’s wish that the collection remain in New Zealand and the move to Invercargill was the best outcome for the country. Tom says “I am sure Invercargill will receive as much enjoyment and make as many new friends as we have”. The newly-expanded Transport World opened in Invercargill in December 2015 and has quickly become the city’s leading attraction. Its 15,000 square metre site houses 250 trucks, more than 50 cars, 200 petrol pumps and a conference centre.

The recently expanded Bill Richardson Transport World in Invercargill is a fascinating collection of historic vehicles. The addition of the NZCM collection will further enhance the city’s reputation as a tourist attraction with a strong motoring focus.