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Joe Lett with the Worlds First Superbike model, Triumph Trident 750cc3 of 6Joe started his apprenticeship for Percy Coleman Motocycles in 1961, became foreman and later retail owner of Colemans Suzuki Shop in Wanganui -
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Get ready to step back in time and celebrate the elegance of yesteryears at the Whanganui Vintage Weekend 2026!
Join us for a spectacular four-day extravaganza over the Wellington Anniversary Weekend that will transport you to a bygone era filled with vintage charm, classic cars, retro fashion, and nostalgic entertainment.
Throughout the event, you'll have the opportunity to participate in vintage fashion contests, explore heritage exhibitions & arts workshops, enjoy the drama of a show in one of our heritage theatres and savour mouthwatering cuisine. Come dressed in your best retro attire and enjoy all that Whanganui has to offer!
If you’re after a good old knees-up or a place put those feet up and unwind, our weekend of scheduled events has got you covered. Whether you’re into high speed and thrills or relaxing on a scenic cruise, you’ll find just the ticket at Whanganui Vintage Weekend.
Come admire classic cars or hop aboard a river cruise. Take in the atmosphere of a Steam Inc steam rail regional experience, or take to the skies for unimaginable views via the Aero club Open Day. Vintage tractors, traction engines & Royal Enfield motorcycles will be on display. And there’s rides for the kids! We are also excited to announce the return of the Soapbox Derby for 2026, the crowd favourite that was dearly missed last year, is back! Take in the thrills and spills on Drew’s ave as competitors from around the land speed down the slopes of Pukenamu Queens Park & Drews Avenue, in all manner of gravity powered vehicles.
Enjoy hunting for treasures and trinkets at our markets and fairs. Take a stroll through beautiful summer gardens. Pack a picnic full of local treats and pack your dancing shoes for our biggest party, where there’ll be food, fashion, live music, and entertainment for all ages.
Whanganui Vintage Weekend promises a delightful blend of nostalgia, entertainment, and community spirit. This event is not just a celebration of the past; it's a chance to create cherished memories and connections in the present. Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Whanganui Vintage Weekend! 16th - 19th January 2026. The weekend schedule will include both free and ticketed events which will all be found on our website. Make sure you keep an eye out for new events and updates. The complete online & printed programmes will be available at the Whanganui I-site, markets and cafés from 22nd December.
Learn more about the upcoming events on their WEBSITE!
Certified Self Contained Motorcaravan Parking
Park overnight at the Wanganui Racecourse in amongst all action thanks to the Local NZMCA Area
- Entry is from 12pm 16 January
- Departure by 12pm Tuesday 20 January.
- The cost is $5 per person per night. Cash on arrival.
- Dogs on leads at all times as it's a working racecourse and pick up after them
- No booking necessary, first come first serve
- Onsite shuttles will be available for those with no independant transport.
- Any inquiries contact David Hawkins on 027 388 7011
Some events to look forward to:
Percy Colrman Motorcycles 100 Year Exhibition - 17 January
Percy Coleman was a World Mile Grasstrack Champion in the 1920s and after a successful career in USA and NZ opened his Harley Davidson store in Guyton St in late Nov 1925. In 1930 he became the Royal Enfield Distributor for NZ after racing a bike from both that factory, and Rudge in the Isle of Man 1930 TT event.
The exhibition will feature at least one Harley Davidson from 1925 plus some Pre 1942 Indians, and a selection of the many brands they imported through the years from the UK, Japan, Germany & Italy. 100 motorcycles have been entered from an A50 (49cc) to 1100 Suzuki racer, trail bikes, beach fun bikes, roadsters, scrambles and motocross machine. There will also be a display of modern Royal Enfields from the host club, NZ Royal Enfield Riders Club.
Entry is Free!
Steam Inc
5% discount for all NZMCA members when booking directly with Steam Inc's team - just quote your membership number.
See full programme here!
Whanganui Aeroclubs 2026 Aeroday - Sunday 18th January
We have increased the amount of food vendors (and you are welcome to bring your own food.) Burgers, sausage sizzle, hot chips, nuggets, hot dogs, drinks,ice-cream, donuts and of course coffee! Come out and make a day of it. Gates open at 9am and close at 4pm Last air displays approx. 2:45pm.
Admission:
- $15 -15yrs and up
- $10 -gold card
- $5 - 8yr to 14 (max of 2 children then free for more $40 per family group.)
- Under 8 free
The airport shuttle will once again be available to transfer from the racecourse to the airfield
