Classic Jaguars in New Zealand (The Kynaston Charitable Trust)

Richard Waugh ISBN 978 0 473 58250 0 Review copy supplied by the publisher

Published to coincide with the marque’s 100th anniversary, this new locally produced book features an amazing cross-section of all-Kiwi-owned Jaguars ranging from a humble Austin Swallow to a mighty XK220, Jaguar’s ’90s supercar. Along the way, all manner of Big Cats take centre-stage, including saloons, roadsters, sports cars and even a smidgen of locally made tribute cars.

The author, Richard Waugh, has gathered together an impressive collection of Jaguars from all over New Zealand and the combination of well-researched text matched with some superb photography – courtesy of NZ Classic Driver’s chief photographer, Cam Leggett – has resulted in a truly unique and handsome book.

Richard’s masterful and well-written summary of Jaguar’s history covers all the usual bases but also includes much fascinating local detail while also providing new and fresh information, including Richard’s excellent insights on the MkVII/ XK120 design process as well as the importance of Jaguar’s saloon cars – as opposed to their more glamorous sports cars.

The book also features interesting information on early Jaguar dealerships in New Zealand, including appendices covering locally made Jaguar toys and models as well as local restoration specialists and replica builders. A brief chapter on racing Jaguars is also included, alongside coverage of shows such as the prestigious Ellerslie Intermarque Concours and the Auckland Brit & Euro Classic Car Show.

The 100th anniversary of Jaguar’s origins give this book a very unique and topical flavour and in cooperation with the Otago Jaguar Driver Club, the publishing team have also come up with a special ‘100 Year’ grille badge.

This beautifully illustrated and informative book is not only a must-have for Jaguar enthusiasts, but is also one that should appeal to all Kiwi classic car enthusiasts.

*For a special pre-publication price exclusive to NZ Classic Driver readers, turn to page 88 in this magazine.