Classic Motorcycle Mecca opening in November

A highlight of the 2016 Burt Munro Challenge will be the opening of the brand new motorcycle museum in Invercargill. The museum, part of the Bill Richardson Transport World, will house the former collection from Tom Sturgess’ museum in Napier. Hannah Whyte, Tourism Operations Manager for Bill Richardson Transport World says, “In terms of the development it’s coming together well. We have decided to name the new attraction Classic Motorcycle Mecca. We are opening over the 2016 Burt Munro Challenge which is 24-27 November. It’s an absolutely huge year for the event with the opening of a second attraction and we are also supporting the attendance of Guy Martin at this year’s Burt Munro Challenge. Overall great news for Southland’s wheeled fans!” The collection will now be housed within two buildings at 25-27 Tay Street. In addition to creating more exhibition space it is also intended the second building will house a new inner city café called Meccaspresso.

Sue Hill, Classic Motorcycle Mecca Project Manager says “due to the size and scale of the Classic Motorcycle Mecca collection we soon realised more space was needed. We also wanted to add a café as serving great food and beverage had become such a big part of the experience at Bill Richardson Transport World. The collection will be home to close on 300 motorcycles and motorcycle-focussed 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. For further information on Transport World & Classic Motorcycle Mecca see www.transportworld.co.nz