Titan star tractor at vintage day

The 1917 International Harvester Titan has come a long way and sparked a lot of interest in Rotorua.

It was being shown at the Vintage Tractor Working Day and Swap Meet yesterday in Mamaku. Still in good working order, its owner John Couch said he brought it out from England a couple of years ago. He has had the tractor since 1958.

"I inherited it from my father, who had inherited it from his father, who brought it brand new."

The Titan was built in the United States and Mr Couch said there were only four tractors of its type in the North Island.

"There are two working and both were here today," Mr Couch said yesterday.

He added that International Harvesters were this year celebrating 100 years of selling tractors in New Zealand.

Although he could do some ploughing, the rain earlier in the week prevented him from haymaking.

Organiser Alan Surtees said there was a good collection of vintage cars and old trucks.

"It's been the best day we've had with big crowds and lots of exhibitors."

A very good ploughing demonstration was followed by a modern haymaking demonstration.

Organisers estimated the event attracted about 800 people. As well as the 45 vintage tractors, there were stationary engines, vintage cars and trucks.

The swap meet was also successful and Mr Surtees said there was a good collection of tractor parts and tools.

The Mamaku Volunteer Fire Station gave an exhibition on how to deal with workshop fires.

"They showed us how to use the fire hydrants properly and how to achieve the desired result," Mr Surtees said.