Veteran and car lover turns 100

CELEBRATE: Brian de Lautour cutting his birthday cake. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

World War II veteran and car lover Brian de Lautour recently celebrated his 100th birthday at Summerset Retirement Village.

Friends and family came together to celebrate the centenarian, where they talked about his great achievements, sung songs, ate food and shared gifts.

"I made it, but don't feel 100," Mr de Lautour said.

He is the oldest living Kiwi veteran from the battle of Monte Cassino and first joined the army in 1940.

He was born on March 26, 1916 and worked on his father's farm before joining the army. After the war, he got a job as a valuer at the Clark Valuation Group.

Friend Ray Trott says Mr de Lautour is an amazing man.

"I am proud and feel honoured to be the petrol heads friend, he is a great person."

Mr de Lautour is a great lover of cars and has collected and had many different cars over the years, including five Austins. He has also been a part of the Vintage Car Club.

On his birthday Summerset Retirement village organiser Pat Goodall arranged a visit from a 1930 Studebaker. This was the same model of car Mr de Lautour borrowed from his parents when he was a teenager to charm his future wife.

When asked what his secret was to living to 100, Mr de Lautour said he encouraged people not to smoke.

"I have never been a smoker which was rare in my days. I eat and drink what I like and always make sure I am active."

Mr de Lautour was given a photo of his villa, flowers and a key to the village from the management group and a gift voucher from his friends on the day.

He thanked everyone who came and says he's looking forward to another year.