About The Classic

The Original Ayrburn Classic

Roads are meant for cars. Today, at least. But back in 1915, the accepted wisdom was that roads were meant for more traditional forms of locomotion. Like horses or well-soled feet.

This modern contraption called ‘the automobile’ was seen by many as a dangerous fad or a reckless folly. RM Paterson was not one of those people. Just like the loveable Toad in Kenneth Grahame’s *The Wind In The Willows* (published a few years prior) RM was an automotive enthusiast. To say that he enjoyed the practical and recreational rewards that his Buick Tourer afforded him, would be an understatement.

However, RM found it impossible to bring his beloved Buick home because Skippers Canyon Road was officially closed to motor vehicles during daylight hours. What to do? Drive the road at night and risk serious injury to himself or – even worse – his car? Or show the local powers that progress forces us to re-assess everything, including the letter of the law. No prizes for guessing which of these roads (pun intended) RM went down.

He filled his car with gas, supplies and friends, and set off down the canyon road just as the sun reached its zenith. A joyous drive through stunning scenery and a pointed act of defiance. One that would see him convicted and ordered to pay 7 pounds 12 shillings and 9 pence in fines and court costs. A price worth paying for the thrill of driving this scenic road and seeding the idea that maybe automobiles do belong there after all.

 

The Modern Day Ayrburn Classic

What began as a bold vision to create a world-class motoring festival in the heart of Central Otago continues to grow beyond expectations.

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In 2026, the Ayrburn Classic welcomed thousands of guests and over 500 remarkable vehicles to the Ayrburn precinct, transforming Queenstown's wine and food playground into a celebration of motoring, design, community, and lifestyle. From the roar of iconic engines and the spectacle of the Dell Showcase to the charity-driven Tour d'Elegance, live auctions, family experiences, and unforgettable hospitality, the festival cemented its place as one of New Zealand's premier automotive events.

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But we're only just getting started.

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Returning from 19th - 21st February 2027, the Ayrburn Classic enters an exciting new chapter, introducing a series of new experiences designed to elevate the festival for entrants, collectors, enthusiasts, and visitors alike.

For the first time, the festival will feature a dedicated Concours Class, showcasing 40 of New Zealand's most significant collector vehicles competing for prestigious awards and judged by an esteemed panel of local and international experts. Alongside this, the inaugural Junior Concours will celebrate the next generation of motoring enthusiasts, bringing beautifully crafted scale vehicles and young drivers into the spotlight.

The much-loved Tour d'Elegance returns following its hugely successful debut, once again raising vital funds for local charities while creating unforgettable experiences for participants and passengers alike.

At the heart of the festival, the Dell Showcase evolves further in 2027 with a series of specialist motoring segments and curated feature presentations. Throughout the weekend, guests will experience rare marque gatherings, coachbuilt masterpieces, competition legends, automotive design icons, significant collector cars, and special guest appearances, bringing some of the country's most fascinating vehicles and stories into the spotlight.

Across the Ayrburn precinct, guests can expect more cars, more experiences, more entertainment, and more opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts. From curated vehicle displays and club gatherings to award-winning food, Central Otago wines, live music, fashion, family activities, and luxury hospitality experiences, the Ayrburn Classic offers something for everyone.

As we look ahead to 2027, our ambition remains unchanged: to create a festival that celebrates motoring excellence while showcasing the very best of New Zealand hospitality, landscape, and community spirit.

Join us as we write the next chapter of the Ayrburn Classic story.