Canterbury Branch Activities and Events
December
Tues2nd
Tues16th Grounds
Wed 17th
Fri 26th
January
Canterbury Branch Monthly Programme
Noggin Night
1st Thursday of the month
9-90s
1st Wednesday after noggin
Motorcycle Noggin
2nd Wednesday of the month
Commercial Noggin
3rd Wednesday of the month
North Canterbury Noggin
4th Wednesday of the month
Old cars, bikes and coffee
3rd Sunday of the month
Grounds Maintenance Morning
1st Tuesday and third Tuesday of the month
Parts Department Wednesdays 12.30-5pm, noggin night and every 3rd and 4th Sunday 9-12pm
COPYRIGHT STATEMENT: The contents of this newsletter may not be reproduced in a commercial publication without the Editor’s permission.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Another month has gone by, with something on the branch calendar every weekend in November, although unfortunately events have conspired such that I haven’t managed to make it along to any of them. I guess that’s life when summer comes along and things start to get busy.
Thanks to everyone involved with organising the recent events, the time given up to making things happen is greatly appreciated, and it’s good to hear there has generally been a good turnout to make it worthwhile. We’ve even received some feedback from event attendees, which is also appreciated particularly when it’s positive feedback for the organisers, much of the time we only hear from people when they have something to complain about.
The branch committee are of course always open to feedback of any sort, it’s really the only way we know if what we’re doing is working for our members, and there’s always opportunity for improvement or to try something new.
As you will have seen in the last issue of The Hub, after over eight years of service to the branch our secretary Rod Thrower is stepping back from most of the duties of the secretary to focus on other priorities. Until we have someone to take over the various aspects are being covered by other committee members, so if anything gets overlooked please follow up to make sure someone has it in hand.
There’s still things happening to finish off the year so look forward to seeing some of you out and about, and if not have a great Christmas and holiday season, and we’ll see you next year to start it all again.
Neil Shaskey Branch Chairman
SECRETARY’S REPORT
HELP WANTED
With Rod standing down as branch secretary we are looking for a volunteer to step into this important role. No experience necessary, full training will be provided If you may be interested but want to know more please contact Neil, Robyn or Katryna to discuss further.
CLUB CAPTAINS
Yes, another year is almost done! Over the past year the Canterbury Branch has held some fantastic events. Celebrating the 50 years since the naming of Cutler Park and holding the National South Island Easter Rally to commemorate this. Moving into the 21st century with the Winter Run and using new technology to read our directions on the rally route. The new Vintage Convenor, Jeremy Wise completed his first Rally. Daffodil Day this year raised the most money we have ever done and of course another successful Swap Meet and welcoming a new National Office Building to Meadow Street.
South Island Easter Rally Family at Irishman Rally HQSwapmeet 2025
Fyffe House and Donegal House - Show Weekend Tour Idiots on Winter Rally
This month's “Just for interest”....... The 2025 model year brings significant redesigns and updates across various car brands, featuring new technologies, improved performance, and fresh aesthetics.
Key Redesigned Models for 2025
Annual Rally Arrival of a new National Office
Honda Civic: The Civic has received a facelift with a new hybrid powertrain option, updated styling, and enhanced features, making it more competitive in the compact car segment.
Toyota Camry: The 2025 Camry will be hybrid-only, boasting improved fuel efficiency and a fresh design. It features a starting price of $28,400 and offers optional all-wheel drive.
Subaru Forester: This beloved model has undergone a significant makeover, introducing a hybrid version for the first time, along with a quieter cabin and sharper design.
Chevrolet Equinox: The Equinox and has been updated with a more aggressive design and new transmission options, while maintaining its power output from the previous model year.
Toyota 4Runner: After a long wait, the 4Runner is getting a complete redesign with new powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and hybrid option, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
Cadillac Escalade IQ: This all-electric version of the Escalade will offer impressive power and range, along with a luxurious interior and advanced technology features.
Hyundai Loniq 9 EV: Hyundai’s new flagship electric SUV is set to make waves with its spacious interior, advanced tech, and sleek design, catering to families looking for electric options.
Performance Upgrades: Many models are not just getting aesthetic updates but also performance enhancements, such as new powertrains and improving handling characteristics.
Technological Innovations: Expect to see state-of-the-art infotainment systems and driver-assistance features becoming standard in many redesigned models.
Conclusion
The 2025 model year is shaping up to be exciting for car enthusiasts and buyers alike, with numerous brands rolling out redesigned vehicles that promise to deliver better performance, efficiency, and modern features. Whether you're looking for a hybrid, an electric vehicle, or a traditional gas-powered car, there are plenty of options to consider.
Still the events roll on, with the Christmas Social (Band Included),
Children's Christmas Party, Boxing Day picnic, New Years day picnic, in Little River. The Commercial Run and Annual Rally in February are coming around quickly. As always the continuation of the 9-90’s and Vog Runs throughout the year. Not least forgetting OCBC (Old, Bikes, Coffee and Cars).
Enjoy your Christmas and New Year. Henry and I look forward to sharing another fun filled year next year!
Merry Christmas!
Katryna
VETERAN REPORT
It’s been a busy month for the veteran section, and we’ve enjoyed some good events and motoring on nice sunny and warm days. Things kicked off with the Hororata Highland Games on 8th November, and gathered together a great collection of 20 pre-1945 vehicles (10 of them veteran) for a display at this increasingly popular early summer event. This year a record-breaking 11,000 strong crowd attended, and it was good to be invited again to not only showcase our vehicles, but also enjoy the day alongside the general public. We once again met just down the road from the showgrounds, and at 10.15pm we were led into the grounds in a parade past the crowd and then parked close to the sports fields where most of the activities took place during the day. Two traction engines joined us this year too. Although we needed to stay in place until 4.30pm, there is so much going on in the grounds that the time went quickly. That evening about 20 from our group met at Thirsty Acres in Kirwee for dinner afterwards, concluding a very enjoyable day. It was great to be joined for the whole day by Methven members Neil McDonald and Jennie Coleman, who were motoring their 1912 Flanders on its first official club outing following a full and thorough restoration. What a lovely car it is too.
Our monthly coffee morning convened as usual two days later, with a bit of discussion about forthcoming events. It’s going to be a busy but fun summer, especially leading up to the Vero International Rally in March. Top of mind for most of us were the Branch Annual Veteran Rally (then only two weeks away), and then at the beginning of December the One and Two-cylinder Rally in Clyde organised this year by Bruce and Shirley Shadbolt. The entry form for the Dunedin to Brighton Run in January had also just come out – so much to do and plan for! A date and venue for the monthly Random Run was also set, with the weather forecast for Thursday 20th November looking very favourable. So with the Random Run locked in, all that was needed was to
wait just over a week or so, and then look out for Malcolm’s Facebook page reminder to see that it was all go. This time we decided to meet in Rangiora at Chris Dyer’s brother’s property in Coldstream Road, with a decision to be made then about where we’d be going. Unfortunately Chris’s Model T was in the naughty corner with a cylinder head problem, so he hitched a ride with John Wilson in the Ford T Speedster, I took our 1912 Wolseley, Malcolm McGibbon took the T Roadster, and Allan Familton and Lesley Colsell had their 1908 De Dion. Over a coffee at the Mainpower Arena coffee shop, we decided that we should head up to Ashley Gorge for a picnic lunch – a good, mostly flat, 36km run with a couple of hills at the Gorge end to mix it up a bit. By then too the weather was perfect – light winds and a very warm and sunny day. The cars, drivers and passengers all took the run in their stride, and we had a great day out, although the traffic was a bit busy between Loburn and Rangiora when we came back at 3.00pm as the school pick-ups were in progress.
Next on the agenda was our Branch Annual Veteran Rally on Sunday 23rd November. This year the event was opened to early rearwheel-brake vintage vehicles as well, and we had a good turnout of 17 vehicles on the day, including 3 motorcycles. The day started with morning tea in the clubrooms, followed by a couple of simple field tests in the club grounds. The cars and bikes were then sent off on a timed 38km run that took them out to the old Courtenay School on Old West Coast Road. By then the day had cleared to fine weather, so it was a great day to be out touring in the countryside. After Courtenay we headed back to West Melton to have lunch in the beautiful garden at Rhodo Direct in Halkett Road, where Lisa Williams and her partner propagate thousands of Rhododendrons every year that go all over NZ – a very nice place to enjoy our lunch in the shade of some tall trees. This was followed by afternoon tea at our place to round off the day. There are about 6 different trophies in the cabinet at the Clubrooms to be awarded for the Annual Veteran Rally across several categories which will be presented at the December noggin, but it was possible to calculate the overall winner on the day. Congratulations and well done to Richard Garlick who has recommissioned his 1912 Mitchell after a 10-year break, and managed to win both the field tests and time trial. Not only that, but his car
was chosen by the majority of participants as the concours winner as well! It was great to see it being motored enthusiastically again, and Richard took away a trophy I made up to keep as a record of his return to veteran motoring.
Coming Veteran Events
Tuesday 9th December – Veteran Coffee at Thirsty Acres in Kirwee.
Come and discuss you veteran successes and problems, and we’ll see if we can make sense of it all. Start time is 11.00am when the premises opens, and feel free to stay on for the Gold Card lunch. Please note that there not be a Random Run in December or January.
Sunday 14th December – OCBC at Cutler Park – ideal if you would like to give your veteran a run and also show it off to the kids at the Children’s Christmas Party at the same time.
Friday 26th December – Boxing Day Picnic – see details elsewhere. Don’t forget also the Banks Peninsula Branch Picnic at Little River on New Year’s Day.
Sunday 4th January – Pegasus Lakeside Picnic
Another event well worth attending, where we will be once again joining with the Radio Sailing Club to put on a display of cars at the Pegasus lakeside where the sailing club have a regatta in the lake. It would be absolutely great to have another large display of veteran, vintage and other VCC vehicles there – it’s intended to be a very public event which will be publicised throughout North Canterbury – once again a great opportunity to show our vehicles to the public whilst enjoying the event (and our picnics) on the lakeside ourselves. More details can be found on Page 18.
Weekend of 24th & 25th January – Dunedin to Brighton Run –
Contact Colin Hey for details or if you would like an entry form
Weekend of 14th and 15th February – Veteran Car Club Annual Summer Rally, Geraldine (Formerly Mid-Summer Adventures), also open to any VCC veteran vehicles. Registration forms were in the last Veteran Car Club Bulletin, or if you don’t subscribe to that, please contact Colin Hey for an entry form if you’re interested in going. In the meantime we suggest you book your accommodation as soon as possible as Geraldine is a popular destination at that time of the year.
Sunday 1st March - Brooklands to Brighton Run Later in the Hub on Page 20 you will find information on this event. If you can breathe any life at all into your 100-year-plus motorcycle, car or truck, then you simply must enter this event, which will showcase all of our vehicles older than 100 years. Note too, that there is a special prize at this rally for the oldest car/youngest driver combination, so get your children and grandchildren trained up and ready to enter. They will thoroughly enjoy it.
Vintage
Car Club Canterbury Summer Picnic Run
Sunday 4th January 2026
Join in January’s Picnic Run on 4th January at Lake Pegasus (Pegasus township is just north of Woodend), where we will be joining once again with the Radio Sailing Club to put on a display of cars at the Pegasus lakeside and with the Pegasus Radio Sailing Club who will have their annual regatta in the lake. Open to all club members and free to attend, it would be absolutely great to have a large display of VCC vehicles again this year – it’s a very public event which will be publicised throughout North Canterbury –
public whilst enjoying the event (and our picnics) on the lakeside. just follow the VCC signs.
BOXING DAY PICNIC
Friday 26th December 2025 from 10 a.m.
This year our picnic will be held at the Groynes. Picnic Area No. 1a
Bring picnic, family, bats and balls, frisbies etc. All family members welcome but please no dogs.
Instructions
Turn into the Groynes off Johns Road, Turn right at the roundabout to follow Groynes Drive. Turn right at the roundabout and proceed to Picnic Area 1 on your right. VCC sign.
Barbecue and toilets are available. Enquires to Don or Judy Bennetts Ph. 3856333
VOG LOG
It was 2am on the morning of 11th November the wind was blowing it’s heart out from the South and the rain was persisting down. Here we go again thinks I another WET Tuesday and we’re meant to be out enjoying ourselves on our little beauties but my prayers must have worked as by 10:30am meeting time the wind had subsided and the pavements and the roads were dry. Hoorah it’s all on.
I thought our numbers were going to bottom out this month as I kept getting all these apologies from our normal riders – seven of them in fact. Some of you will be saying “ you can’t be normal if you are riding a Velosolex”! but yes we are (in our minds anyway). But much to my delight 9 hardy souls turned up at the Halswell Library no.2 carpark for a ride organised by Wayne Gath with Colin Hider as backup this time. It was a great ride and the day kept getting better and better. We were taken around some of the quieter roads in the Halswell area and eventually winding our way to Ladbrooks on some nice quiet country roads – no large milk tankers or shingle moving monsters to worry about and not even a John Deere tractor was to be seen– I noted Wayne was even riding in the middle of the road at times (tsk tsk) as he checked out to make sure all his ducks were in a row and nobody was missing.
I had never realised before that there are even some “hills” along Ellesmere Junction Rd and McDrury’s Rd as my Solex kept slowing back from 30 to 22 km/h I even had trouble keeping up with Grant Lomax who was powering away in front of me, I eventually managed to pass him with a tricky manoeuvre when exiting out of Leadleys Rd back onto Ellesmere Rd with a rush of power when pulling away from a compulsory stop.
Wayne managed to keep to mostly quiet roads until we eventually got back to the lights at Halswell Rd, Halswell Junction Rd, Sparks Rd to head back to the carpark. I did note John Thomson taking
his life in his hands as he pulled out to the middle of the road ready to cross and not noticing a large logging truck bearing down on him, wow he was lucky the truck driver was on the case. John was completely oblivious to all this so he lives to tell the tale. He didn’t know about it so he won’t tell the tale.
An enjoyable end to the ride was had with a relaxing meal and “intellectual conversations” at “The Halswell”. Previously “Craythornes Hotel” funnily enough in Halswell.
Royce
VOG1
Hello Everyone. I hope you all enjoyed the November run. It sounds like It was another Great outing thanks to George and Kelvin. I am disappointed I was unable to come. It is always great to have a nosey around Kelvin’s collection to see which cars he has finished restoring and progress on others.
George has written a report which I will reproduce here.
Novembers run was through North Canterbury following the Cust river to Ohoka and onwards to Willsons Mill. Our host, Kelvin Findlay, made his large and unique collection of mainly veteran cars available for us to view. Many of these vehicles are unique and rare and it was wonderful to see so many of them in restored condition. The gardens at Willsons mill are extencive with a stream running through to a large lily pond and surrounded by many large and established trees. A substantial donation was able to be made to Kelvin to be passed on for cancer research from those who attended.
Thanks again George.
Next month we will try a new way to celebrate the end of another 9-90s year as we break for Christmas.
We will gather at the barn in the VCC grounds on the 12th at 11.30 for a free BBQ with Patties, Sausages and ham supplied along with bread, onions and sauces, just bring any other food like salad etc. you would like to have with it. There will be the usual little Christmas present for each car attending. Please let me know by email to kenjj10187@gmail.com if you are coming for catering purposes.
If you can’t make it I wish you a very Happy and Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing you next year.
Happy Motoring. Ken. 9-90s
Show Weekend Run
This was our first Show Weekend Run for a few years as we have managed to be away on those dates. I wasn’t optimistic about the weather either as I do tend to trust the forecast. Thankfully this was wrong (but so were the clothes we packed!) and we had a glorious weekend. With the usual start from Cutler Park after a bit of sustenance and some words from Katryna Shaw and Henry Little, our leaders for the weekend, the group of 56 participants was off. There are only a couple of ways to get across the Waimak but once across, we found we were on some roads that Selwyn and I hadn’t been on before. Some interesting things to look at and curiosity about how far out of Rotheram the lunch stop was. We arrived at the Woodland Spring Garden for lunch and quickly settled ourselves into a shady nook in their gorgeous garden full of azaleas, rhododendrons and other flowers. One of our party was coveting one of the horse sculptures in the garden but was convinced to leave it on site. The bonus here was the tea, coffee and yummy fudge cake and muffins provided as a sweet treat.
Back on the road again and we were on the way to Waiau which was a bit more familiar. As we came into Waiau, Selwyn commented that the De Soto was pulling hard to the left – sure enough we had a puncture. The driver had the foresight to stop just opposite the garage where there was a flat concrete space for jacking up the car and as we drove in we discovered the garage open. Yay! Even better was the fact that this good ol’ country garage had a 15” tube in stock and happily fitted it for us. The run to Kaiakoura was thankfully uneventful so we settled into our accommodation and had a shared fish and chip tea. None of the raucous partying we heard one motel had! Saturday morning started with a guided tour of Fyffe house and gardens where we learned some interesting history of both Kaikoura, whaling and the residence we were visiting. Sadly I can
remember quite a few of the items in the house from my childhood so I guess I’m officially historic. After lunch we had a visit to VEight Café and then on to Bernard Harmon’s car museum. Even though we had been there before, there was more to look at and acres of cars to identify and wonder at. Thank goodness we only have a few. There might have been a little bit of shopping for me in the afternoon too.
Donegal House for dinner didn’t disappoint and everyone we have talked to enjoyed their meals and the night. Many participants were resplendent in flash ties as per instructions, and congratulations to the winners – the embroidered lace tie and Tinkerbell’s sparkly green tie and bell.
A huge thank you to Katryna and Henry for organising this great run – we will be back next year.
Lorraine Stewart (& Selwyn Cox)
Vintage Report
Dare I say that Christmas and the New Year are near, despite all my attempts to ignore this! I haven’t struck nearly enough off my annual ‘to do’ list!
The club still has the following events and activities in December to conclude the year namely:
Nogging Natter on Thursday 4th
Christmas Social on Saturday 6th
OCBC and Christmas Picnic on Sunday 14th Additionally, there a two Grounds Maintenance days in December too.
In November I had the pleasure of meeting Colin & Marion White and their son Donald. Colin & Marion are members of the Canterbury Branch although they live in the Albury area which is effectively South Canterbury. The main reason for maintaining their contact with the Canterbury Branch is for the Swap Meet and the all famous Irishman Rally. Colin afforded a good chunk of an afternoon to allow me to view his collection of cars. These are mostly Fords of Model T’s and A’s.
Colin also has two Buicks; a 1918 model (original) and a 1930 Buick Series 40 Sedan. Colin purchased the restored 1930 Buick from Temuka which included its original purchase documents and papers. It shows the Buick was purchased new with a vehicle traded in. The Buick was a Timaru taxi and included numerous trips to the Mackenzie Basin and to Mt Cook.
Colin’s favourite vehicle is ‘Lizzy’ a 1913 Ford Model T, a four door tourer. Although I think this was a hard decision and I suspect the 1930 Model A two door hard top was a very close runner up.
Some of Colin’s cars are original and in full working order, which given their age I find astounding!
I am a new neighbour to Colin and Marion and was delighted to find out that there is more than one other vintage car enthusiast on the same road.
I had a great morning at the Annual Veteran Rally. I was there as a helper so it provided the perfect opportunity to chat and admire the vehicles.
Despite the punishing drying winds and hot weather I think the grounds at Cutler Park are looking excellent.
Here’s wishing you all the very best for the festive season and I look forward to seeing you across the December activities. See you motoring out and about.
Jeremy Wise
Annual Girder Rally
Twenty five enthusiastic entrants plus supporters were welcomed and briefed at the starting point of Auto Restorations.
The long route headed out through Sumner, over Evans Pass, Governor's Bay and Gebbies Pass, turning off at Little River. We then continued over the scenic Bossa Rd to Duvauchelle Hotel, for lunch.
The short route option took riders through the Lyttelton tunnel, over Gebbies Pass and Little River, directly to the lunch stop. The afternoon run gave riders options of long or short routes, heading for our overnight accommodation at the Wainui Camp.
After settling in, everyone enjoyed welcome refreshments, plenty of socialising and a well prepared BBQ meal, followed by prizegiving.
The facilities cater well for large groups and we were very comfortable.
Thank you to Paul Ainsworth and Mike Glenday for organising another successful rally and memorable weekend for all participants.
Results were-
Overall Winner: Rob McIntyre - 1947 Indian
Best Overall Veteran: Brad Govan -1914 Humber
Best Overall Vintage: Jonathan Abel - 1927 Triumph
Best Overall Post Vintage: Barry Jones- 1934 Harley Davidson
Regularity Trial: Steve Murray - 1938 Norton
Most Original: John Chamberlain - 1930 AJS
Dick of the Run:
Stu Skurr - 1928 Harley Davidson
Publicans Choice: Brian Hayman - 1935 Ariel
Planning is well in hand to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Girder Rally next year. A milestone event to look forward to … mark it on your calendar now!
MOTORCYCLE REPORT
Summer is here!! Enjoy the motorcycling weather while you can!!
For the Future Events, things get a bit sketchy from mid December onwards, but at least you do get the idea of what is on into the future.
Past Events.
25th October – Fish & Chip Run. A bit of a non-event. Only one rider fronted, he did his own thing… Being Labour Day weekend probably did not help… 12th November – Noggin Night. About 25 or so of the group ventured to West Melton to conduct a garage raid on a very impressive collection of Wolesely cars! Not only was the collection impressive, but it would be safe to say that just about all of us developed “Shed Envy” as well!! Many thanks to Colin for allowing us to poke through his garage.
19th November – Old Codger’s Run A run to the Coffee Club at Ravenswood, then throught the Ashley Gorge to the West Oxfor Pub for lunch. A great day for motorcycling, with 27 riders enjoying the day
Future Events
29th November – Motorcycle Annual Rally. (Note, no Fish & Chip Run this month.) A good lunch time destination has been organised; Terrace Station, Hororata. As there is a charitable trust running the place there will be an entry fee to see the grounds etc – NOT the house! This place is the type that some non-entrants might like to visit and experience. There will be an evening meal and prize giving at Motorcycle Corner, taking the shape of a BYO meat and salad etc. to share. This is an official M/C event, so there will be a back-up provided to collect stragglers… More detailed information plus entry forms on pages 34 – 35 of the November Hub. See also the Event Reminder emailed out on 13th November, and the Editor’s reminder mailed
out 20th November.
10th December – Noggin Night; Xmas Noggin. This will be a Christmas Dinner and social in The Barn, with a catered meal or something. The ham has been booked, and the committee will supply a range of saleds. Royce will ensure there are no duplications so there should be a good variety…
13th December – Fish & Chip Run – Last for the Year. Meet at The Peg Hotel, Belfast, for a North Canterbury run. The usual, meet at 10.15 am for a 10.30 am departure. No specific destination, just “go for a ride…”
17th December – Old Codger’s Run. Look out for the event reminder email…
2nd January 2026 – Motorcycle New Years Run. Meet at Motorcycle Corner, Cutler Park, 10.00 am for a 10.30 am departure. Probably a run to the North Canterbury area, to be confirmed…
14th January 2026 – Motorcycle Noggin. Meet at the Motorcycle Shelter for a couple and a bit of a chin wag… 7.30 pm onwards…
21st January 2026 – Old Codger’s Run. Again, look out for the event reminder email which will have more details… 31st January 2026 – Fish & Chip Run. Again, look out for the event reminder email which will have more details…
10 – 12th April 2026, Jim Toohey Run. Just a heads up, this run will be over the Lewis Pass to Muchison then onto Ross on the West Coast. Bookings have been made for accommodation; look out for the details etc. in the New Year.
Merry Chrtistmas, and as I often say –“Complaints of the Season to you all!”
Cheers, CML
Homestead Run 2025
This years run took us from Cutler Park over the Waimak and left towards Ashley Gorge. Towards the gorge we drove past a farmers gate with a coffee sign up and going by the vehicles outside it was being well patronised by the locals. We drove through Oxford, some stopped at the Sunday market then back over the Waimak before stopping at Donald Wrights farm between Sheffield and Springfield.
I spent my first 18 months of life close to Springfield at an area called Annat, my parents in 1958 were working on a farm up in the Pig Route, spending their first couple of years of marriage there. A new house I understand, but the power wasn’t on when they first moved in. I was born in Darfield. A short storyI was born1958 - fast forward to about 2008, a woman came into where I was working at the time. We were talking and she said -you won’t remember but my mother and I were in the bed next to you and your mother in Darfield in 1958. She told me her surname and being only probably 3 days old at that time I had not taken any notice of the people in the next bed. Anyway I told my mother about this close encounter, she remembered the womans name, her new daughters name and where they lived. I digress.
Donald Wright and his son greeted us in their vast yard, they operate an arable/livestock farm spread over 1680 acres. They grow crops, graze cattle, produce fat lambs and aquaculture. This has been going on for around 130 years with the current operators being the 5th generation. All operations are carried out by the Wrights and their staff with the exception of stock cartage and baling. One thing that caught our eye was the machinery in the yard, large tractors, large combine harvester and the like.
Don and his son both remarked on the wind, this particular day there was none, not a breath really. Quite a rare day they reckon. The northwest wind being predominant, the previous month they had 150km/hr winds, abit of dust flying about. The annual rainfall being between 30-35 inches a year. Irrigation is used on the farm via huge moving irrigators. The supply of water is from
a water storage pond built in 2015. 240,000 meters of water is stored prior to being pumped to their land. Heather liked this and after questioning Don about the safety of swimming we had to return for a swim afterwards. Not I, just Heather went in. Don warned her about the weed in the pond and to combat this they bought in Grass Carp to control this.
Lunch was in their beaut spring garden, Jenny Wright is the head gardner with many rhododendrons planted which had been bred on the property by Dons parents. The home is a modern homestead being built in 2012. Mature trees surround the home and garden. Just lovely. And of course for those interested - a good size shed with vintage cars and tractors.
Thanks to Don and Jenny for opening up their farming operation and garden to around 200 people in about 95 cars. I thanked Assistant Club Captain Henry Little and his band of helpers on the day but once again Heather and I wish to say thanks, we enjoyed the day out.
If anyone wants the full description of the Wrights property visit contact me and I will scan and email it to you. (Mike & Heather Glenday)
Commercial Report
Greetings all,
I’ve had my quick trip to Hamilton and back to collect my daughter and the contents of her flat. I dropped off my Magneto for the Lagonda in Blenheim along the way. In Hamilton we packed my Toyota Highlander like Tetris - there was barely an air gap! She then followed me home in her Yaris with a few lighter things on board. Smooth crossings both ways and no delays which made it relatively stress free. We saw some lovely scenery on the way and had mostly good weather. Nice to have her home again.
Back in Canterbury along the Kaikoura coast - Red and black!
Our family are going to the UK for Christmas to spend time with the other Grandparents. It’ll be a first Winter Christmas for our two grown up kids. We found out last Saturday that the airline we purchased our flights from South Hampton to Guernsey with went bust on Friday. Great timing. We have now had to rebook flights with a different airline from Gatwick instead at great additional cost. Let’s hope we can get our money back now. I’m not hopeful. Our stopover in Vancouver on the way should be fun. London should be very “Christmassy”. We’re on Guernsey for 18 days then back to London for our flight out. Then we thaw out in Singapore for a few days on the way home in January. I’ve saved any further “car” projects until the new year when I’m not battling with a lawns and gardens etc. The November Commercial noggin was a casual catchup at Brian Newbery’s workshop. There was a good turn out of members and Brian had set up a great table with plenty of seating. Brian gave us
a quick chat about his collection and the set up of his workshop. He’s got 4 veteran vehicles that are restored and several other vehicles in his collection. He even started his Nazzaro for us which fired up very easily. Thanks, Brian, for welcoming us to your workshop.
The December Commercial Noggin is to be a Christmas social BBQ held at Tony and Leigh Craythorne’s house. Wednesday 17th December from 6pm. BYO BBQ food and perhaps a folding chair. Enquiries to Tony or Leigh directly please. Please remember that partners are included in this invitation. I won’t be there as I’m away, but I will “cheers” to you from London. Seeing as there is no January HUB I’m going to be all organised and get notice in for the January noggin as well. The January Commercial Noggin is to be at Henry Little’s garage at 16 Glenvale Drive in Kaiapoi. 21st January 2026. BYO chair please as he may not have enough. The garage is at the front of the house. The Annual Commercial Rally is on Saturday 31st January 2026. Starting Mcleans Island 10am. The entry form will be in this edition of the HUB. Enquiries in my absence to Henry please. Henry Little (Michelle) henry.little@hotmail.com 03 327 5471 or 027 288 8277. Please get your entries in so we know you are coming. Late entries may not be competitive and may not receive a plaque. I have a few Noggin options for other places coming up when it’s lighter in the evening, but Winter proves to be a struggle for options. If any club member has a venue or suggestion, please let me know. See you out on the road, Michael
2026 Annual Commercial Rally
Saturday 31st January
Entries close 21st Jan
(Start: Cutler Park 10am)
Entrant’s Name:
Vehicle year:
Vehicle Make/Model:
Average Speed For Timed Section: …………………….
Entry fee $20 (including rally badge)
Payment directly to Commercial Convenor, or by internet banking to branch account 03 1594 0096832 00 with your name in the particulars field and "Commercial Rally" in the reference field.
Online Entry Form HERE
Rally Holders are now available through Henry Little.
Automotive Repair Manual
Porche 924 and turbo
1976-1982
All Models 12/cu inch
1984 cc
03 349 8869
Ideal family club-eligible car with low mileage and great looks ,1987 Executive Station Wagon built by Mitsubishi Australia .Christchurch new with original hand book and just over 100K travelled .According to 'Carjam' it is the only one in NZ .Quiet luxury at a modest price .VIC WOF Rego
$8700 ono
Large mitre Drop saw with 14" blade 'Miter' brand too large for my workshop now $75
Twin-saw ,counter rotating blades ,ideal for cutting into sheets with no kick-back $75
Alan Wills
021 08700692
Haynes Repair Manual
Mini Cooper Clubman Plus S Model
2002-2013
Maria Williams 021 133 1505
WANTED
Hearld/Vitesse Project
Twin Carbs and manifolds to suit 13/60 motor
Wooden capping's to suit doors and read tub or some to us as patterns
Ally front bumper over covers esp curved end ones
Happy to travel anywhere south island
Contact: hairyman7623@gmail.com
and ORGANISATIONS
2025-2026 Representatives
Motorcycle Convenor
Paul Ainsworth (Joss) ainsworth.electrical@xtra.co.n z 027 432 1391
Velosolex Group
Royce Baker (Janice) whisky17@xtra.co.nz 03 322 5529
Parts Dept. Rep.
Wayne Stocks waynestoxy@gmail.com
03 383 1380
9—90’s Co-ordinator
Ken James kenjj10187@gmail.com
03 980 0547
Grounds Maintenance
Peter Blacklock (Chrisy) c.p.blacklock@gmail.com 021 181 3491
Bar Manager
Andrea Dallow (Gilbert) regmad1957@gmail.com 027 224 1465
Barn Bookings/ Camping
Rod Thrower (Lynda) canterbury@vcc.org.nz
03 338 2320 021 126 3529
Swap Meet/Beaded
Wheels Reporter
Colin Hey (Jenny) heywolseley699@gmail.com
03 359 8737 021 883 807
Swap Meet Sites
Neil Shaskey (Louise) swapmeetsites@gmail.com
03 352 8802 027 289 6201
North Canty Noggin
Alan Hill (Barbara) abhill@usnet.co.nz
03 313 6008 021 161 5866
Trophy Custodian & Librarian
Leigh Craythorne (Tony) craythornes@actrix.co.nz
03 342 9110
027 772 8660
Assist-Librarian
Michele Little henry.little@hotmail.com
03 327 5471
027 425 1765
New Members’ Liaison
Jack Porter (Dorothy) jackhporter@xtra.co.nz
03 352 6672 027 432 2041
Branch Vehicle
Custodian
Mark Drury markdrury54@icloud.com
03 342 9297
Building Maintenance
Pete Merrifield petemselwyn@gmail.com 021 435 118
VIC Representative
Chris Leith 021 217 7140
Joseph McClintock 03 322 4676
Barry Jones 021 310 458
Chairman
2025-2026 Main Committee
Neil Shaskey (Louise) neilandlouise@snap.net.nz
03 352 8802
027 289 6201
Secretary
Rod Thrower (Lynda) canterbury@vcc.org.nz thrower.rod@gmail.com
03 338 2320 021 126 3529
Treasurer
Robyn Cox (Eric) robyncox99@gmail.com 021 237 6777
Club Captain
Katryna Shaw (Bryce) katonwheels66@gmail.com 021 0277 2375
Asst Club Captain
Henry Little (Michelle) henry.little@hotmail.com 03 327 5471
027 288 8277
Vintage Convenor
Jeremy Wise jeremywiseuk@hotmail.com 021 0222 8317
Veteran Convenor
Colin Hey (Jenny) heywolseley699@gmail.com 03 359 8737 021 883 807
Commercial Convenor
Michael Hedgman (Claire) hedgesonholiday@gmail.com
03 745 9240 027 516 0029
‘P’ Group Convenor
John Enright (Debbie) jenright51@yahoo.co.nz 027 439 6572 027 355 8387
Hub Editor
And Web Master Brodie Williams brodie@vcccanterbury.org.nz 027 848 7775 (Text)
Insurance
VERO CIS—telephone 0800658411
Canterbury Branch Agency Number 300130
This number needs to be quoted when taking out insurance for Canterbury Branch to benefit.
Open Hours Monday to Friday 8:00am—5:00pm
We now stock cloth tape for vintage vehicles. Several widths.
