Classics from Prefect to Porsche

MGs from the 1960s and 70s. Picture / Wairarapa Times-Age

Classic family cars like Ford Prefects and Anglias will mix with go-fast models like Porsches, a De Tomaso Pantera GTS, Ferrari 308 and Morgan Plus 8 in the upcoming Concourso Euro weekend south of Auckland.

Due to the change of venue from the Waiuku town centre to Pukekohe Park, the organisers have extended the age of eligible European cars to 1991 models as the change of venue allows larger grids.

Late entries have boosted numbers to more than 40 classic cars for the Waiuku Flying 50 event, which has now closed.

The NZ Motor Racing Drivers Club will operate the event under the required Motorsport New Zealand permit.

The weekend kicks off at 8am on Saturday, November 25, from Lotus Cars NZ base at 167 Kitchener Rd, Waiuku, with the Awhitu and Glen Murray tours, which finish at Pukekohe Park entrance at 10am.

Race entrants grid up after a drivers' briefing at 10.30am and run through to 4pm.

The event continues at 10am on Sunday from Kitchener Rd and goes through to 3pm. Those who wish to attend the tours and Concorso can turn up on the day. The Glenbrook Vintage Railway will also be operating.

Organiser Roger Phillips said spectators were invited and proceeds from the Concourso Euro would go to the Starship Foundation.

"This is designed to be a fun weekend offering like-minded motoring enthusiasts the chance to get together in an enjoyable atmosphere," he said.

Planning is already under way for next year's Concourso Euro, which is expected to be expanded to four days and have more events around Waiuku streets.

There will also be racing at Pukekohe and a classic car auction at the historic Kentish Hotel.

Among the entries this year are a Ford Escort RS2000, Lotus Cortina, Jowett Jupier, Porsche 356, MGB Roadster, Datsun 240Z, Citroen Dyane and Ford Zephyr.