Truck show captures nation's history

Kenworth importers, Southpac Trucks chief executive Maarten Durent and general sales manager Richard Smart. PHOTO/REBECCA SAVORY

Thousands of people have turned out to celebrate 50 years of Kenworth Trucks in New Zealand at the Tauranga truck show today.

300 trucks from across New Zealand have registered and parked up at ASB Baypark in an impressive display to mark the milestone occasion.

Since Kenworth trucks were first brought to New Zealand in 1964, the brand has made its mark on kiwis.

Kenworth importers, Southpac Trucks general sales manager Richard Smart said the brand had a following in New Zealand.

"It's like the Harley Davidson brand of trucks. We've got customers with Kenworth tattoos.

"They're the sort of trucks New Zealand is built from."

One of the original 1964 imported trucks was on display as well as up to 33 brand new trucks bought for the event.

Tauranga was chosen to host the event because of its "great history" with the brand through the Port of Tauranga, he said.

Five awards would be handed out this afternoon for the following categories:
1. Best restoration
2. People's choice
3. Best bonneted truck
4. Best cab-over truck
5. Best classic truck