Wheels of Mainstreet celebrates bumper crowd

When it comes to events of the year, they don't get much better than Wheels of Mainstreet for organiser Straw Lye.

The president of the End of the Road Rods and Classics Mount Maunganui club said Saturday's street vehicle showcase has been one of the best in five years the event had been running.

The car-lovers event was held at Coronation Park at Mount Maunganui.

''We had probably 2000 spectators through,'' he said.

''It was good. We had about 216 vehicles. We've had up to 300 in the past but that was better than we expected,'' Mr Lye said.

Cars consisted of American classics, through to trucks, bikes, custom cars and even a T-Bucket or two.

The variety is reflected in the five competition categories with entrants up to win top motorcycle, top car, top truck, people's choice and top Japanese car.

Vehicles were judged by Rob Brewer, a fellow End of Road member from Australia.

Mr Lye said this ensured there was not bias in any potential local judging.

''It's an honour to have him come out.''

Rain hampered efforts last year, with cars pulling out and spectators reluctant to get too wet.

The weekend's warm, sunny weather helped reassure Mr Lye there were plenty of vehicle lovers in the Bay.

''The show is growing and getting more and more popular. We are really happy.''