Omaka Classic Cars is a motoring museum next door to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, dedicated to right-hand-drive cars originally sold on the New Zealand market between the 1950s and 1980s. The collection numbers over 100 cars, with 50 to 60 on display at any given time, all maintained in roadworthy condition. The museum was established in September 2011 by local businessman Ron Stewart through the Marlborough Motoring Trust, set up to ensure the collection’s long-term preservation beyond his lifetime. Wheelchair-friendly and family-suitable.
Practical Information
| Location | Omaka, Blenheim — next to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre |
| Established | September 2011 |
| Founder | Ron Stewart (local Blenheim businessman) |
| Run by | Marlborough Motoring Trust |
| Collection size | 100+ cars total; 50-60 on display at any time |
| Era | 1950s through 1980s |
| Vehicle type | Right-hand drive, originally available on the NZ market |
| Condition | All cars maintained in roadworthy condition for long-distance travel |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly |
| Visitor rating | ~4.3 / 5 on TripAdvisor (142 reviews as of 2024) |
| Combine with | Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre next door |
About the Collection
Omaka Classic Cars focuses specifically on a defined era and market — cars built in the second half of the 20th century, originally available right-hand drive on the New Zealand market. This focus differentiates it from broader vintage car museums: rather than a wide-ranging classics collection, it preserves the actual vehicles that New Zealanders bought new between the 1950s and 1980s. The displayed cars reflect the design evolution of the period — substantial chrome bumpers, large grilles, the gradual shift in body styling from the 1950s through to the more angular 1970s and 1980s forms.
The collection now exceeds 100 vehicles in total, with around 50 to 60 on display at any time. All cars are maintained in roadworthy condition — not just static museum pieces. The Marlborough Motoring Trust rotates display vehicles periodically.
History of the Museum
Omaka Classic Cars was established in September 2011 by Blenheim businessman Ron Stewart, who had built a significant private collection of NZ-market classic cars. Recognising that the collection needed an institutional home to survive long-term, Stewart founded the Marlborough Motoring Trust to take ownership and manage the cars. The museum building was constructed next to the existing Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, allowing the two attractions to share parking and visitor flow.
Visit Notes
The museum is fully wheelchair accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages. Most visitors combine the visit with the neighbouring Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre — the two together make a substantial half-day in Omaka. TripAdvisor reviews are consistently positive (4.3/5 across 142 reviews as of 2024), with visitors particularly noting the well-preserved condition of the collection and the nostalgic appeal of seeing cars they remember from earlier decades of New Zealand life.
Where to Learn More
WhichMuseum — Omaka Classic Cars — independent museum directory with visit information, opening hours, prices and visitor reviews. Useful for current practical info.
Wikipedia — Omaka Classic Cars — background on the museum’s establishment, Ron Stewart’s role and the Marlborough Motoring Trust, with cited primary sources.
The Community — Inside Omaka Classic Cars — first-person visitor write-up with photos of the collection and the building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Omaka Classic Cars?
In Omaka, Blenheim — next to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
When was Omaka Classic Cars established?
September 2011, by Blenheim businessman Ron Stewart through the Marlborough Motoring Trust.
How many cars are in the collection?
Over 100 cars in total, with 50 to 60 on display at any time.
What era do the cars cover?
The 1950s through to the 1980s.
Are the cars driveable?
Yes — all cars are maintained in roadworthy condition for long-distance travel, not just static display.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Omaka Classic Cars is wheelchair-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages.
Can I combine Omaka Classic Cars with the Aviation Heritage Centre?
Yes — they’re literally next door to each other, and most visitors do both in one visit.
For the neighbouring museum see Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
