Greytown’s Kerry Williams with his 1947 Ford V8 coupe. PHOTO/JADE CVETKOV
HAYLEY GASTMEIER
[email protected]
The sky was a dull grey, but Masterton streets were bright with hot rods, classics, vintage and rare cars at the inaugural Father’s Day Show and Shine on Sunday.
About 200 vehicles were on display at the Wairarapa Ram Rodders’ event, which raised money for prostate cancer, $2 from each registration going to the cause.
Club president Peter Maxwell said he was chuffed and relatively surprised with the “brilliant” turn out, with vehicles lining Perry St and packing out the Masterton Town Hall carpark.
Usually the club met for drives, but it had decided to do something different.
“We decided to just bring it to Masterton, make it a free family event and get the public involved.
“Thirty years ago hot rods had a bad name for themselves.”
Maxwell, whose 1939 Chevrolet was on display, said it was about changing that perception.
It was all about the love of cars.
“Some of the guys have spent hundreds of thousands on the motor alone – that’s their pride and passion.”
He said the club had been rejuvenated, thanks to new members and new business sponsorships.
Dot Sandford, of Whangaehu Valley, Masterton, was proud to present her pastel green 1968 Ford Mustang.
She said it was great to see so many unique vehicles in one place.
Retired Greytown car upholsterer Kerry Williams said he had been crazy about cars his whole life.
His black 1947 Ford V8 coupe had a “pretty comfy” interior, which mirrored a soft couch with puffy cushions.
Williams said he had loved being in his line of work.
“For the last 25 years of my career my work was all classics, vintage, and veteran motor cars.”
Well, bit late now to hear that this happened. Well publicized in advance not.