Stragglers charity car display approaching milestone

Lake Karāpiro’s Mighty River Domain is a magnificent setting for Stragglers Charity Custom and Classic Car Display.

The largest one-day car show in New Zealand takes place right here in Waipā - and is going from strength to strength.

Cambridge’s Stragglers Rod & Kustom Club host the annual Charity Custom and Classic Car Display which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025.

After outgrowing the town’s Lake Te Koo Utu Reserve, Lake Karāpiro’s Mighty River Domain has become the perfect home.

The overflow to the overflow carpark was all but full.

This year the main show day on Sunday attracted 1690 display cars and bikes, owners and passengers, plus 1300 members of the public.

Club president Wayne Floyd said members work hard to make it a great event, but they also have it down to a fine art after so many years.

1984 XE Falcon and 'Mini' me.

Mint 1972 E37 Chrysler Charger sporting straight six and triple carbs.

The other Charger - a stunning 1967 Dodge.

There has to be a Christmas gift here somewhere.

Cool 1952 GMC Suburban belonging to bad Penny's Chris Harrison.

The public day is the culmination of three days of events, starting with a car display of 120 cars on the Cambridge Village Green on Friday evening and Saturday’s lunch and mystery cruise and evening dinner and dance for 155 guests.

Floyd said as well as the efforts of his members, plus the goodwill of volunteer helpers, the show is made possible thanks to the support of Waipā District Council and Grassroots Trust.

He said proceeds go to Kids In Need Waikato. Final tallies have to be completed, but last year the club donated $29,000.

Mazda Roadster has upgraded its 2-litre four banger for a 6.2-litre Chevy LS3.

LS3 motorvation for 2005 Mazda Roadster.

“Hot rodders are a generous bunch, especially when the charity helps kids,” he said.

“Our show marks the beginning of summer and when the weather is right the cars and bikes keep rolling in as fast as we can park them.”

Fully blinged Ford Zephyr Zodiac Mk III.

Tim Armstrong Band kept the crowd entertained.

The avenue of classic caravans was 'cool'.