Last updated June 2026
Omaka Classic Cars is a motoring museum in Omaka, Blenheim, that displays right-hand-drive vehicles originally sold on the New Zealand market from the 1950s to the 1980s. The collection exceeds 100 cars, with around 50 to 60 on rotating display at any time. All vehicles are maintained in roadworthy condition. The museum sits next to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and shares visitor facilities with it. It was established in 2011 by the Marlborough Motoring Trust to preserve the collection for the long term.
Practical Information
| Location | Aerodrome Road, Omaka, Blenheim (off SH6), next to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre |
| Established | 2011 |
| Run by | Marlborough Motoring Trust |
| Collection size | Over 100 cars total; around 50-60 on display at any time |
| Era | 1950s to 1980s |
| Vehicle type | Right-hand drive, originally available on the New Zealand market |
| Condition | All cars maintained in roadworthy condition |
| Opening hours | Vary by season; check the official website for current dates (typically 9:30am-2:30pm on selected days) |
| Admission | Adults $20; children under 14 free when accompanied by an adult (one child per adult) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible; suitable for all ages |
| Combine with | Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre next door |
About Omaka Classic Cars
Omaka Classic Cars preserves vehicles that reflect everyday New Zealand motoring from the 1950s to the 1980s. The collection focuses on cars originally sold in right-hand-drive form on the local market, distinguishing it from broader vintage or international classic car displays. Vehicles range from Austins and Fords to Holdens, Jaguars and Leylands, showing the design shifts of the era including chrome bumpers, large grilles and evolving body styles.
The full collection numbers more than 100 cars, gathered since the early 1990s. Approximately 50 to 60 are on display at any one time, with periodic rotation to showcase different vehicles. Every car remains in original condition and roadworthy, capable of long-distance travel with minimal preparation. The Marlborough Motoring Trust, a charitable trust established by the Stewart family, owns and manages the collection to ensure its preservation.
The museum building was constructed adjacent to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, allowing shared parking and easy combined visits. Displays highlight the role these cars played in New Zealand life, from family transport to cultural touchstones. Self-guided visits let visitors move at their own pace through the well-spaced exhibits.
Visiting Omaka Classic Cars
Admission is paid via tokens available at the neighbouring Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. The site offers improved walk-around space between vehicles following a restructure. Larger groups or visits outside listed hours can be arranged by contacting the museum. The collection changes regularly, so repeat visits reveal different cars from the total holdings.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the nostalgic appeal of seeing cars familiar from earlier decades of New Zealand life. Many note the well-preserved, original condition of the vehicles and the opportunity to view them up close in a spacious setting. Reviews frequently mention the value of combining the visit with the adjacent aviation museum for a half-day outing.
Guests describe the experience as a pleasant walk down memory lane, with comments on the variety of makes and models and the insight into local motoring history. The self-guided format and friendly staff receive positive mentions, along with the reasonable entry price for the quality of the collection.
Where to Learn More
Omaka Classic Cars official website: current opening dates, hours, pricing and location details.
Wikipedia — Omaka Classic Cars: overview of the collection, trust and location with references to primary sources.
Love Marlborough — Omaka Classic Cars: regional tourism profile with background on the collection and trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Omaka Classic Cars located?
Aerodrome Road, Omaka, Blenheim, next to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
When was Omaka Classic Cars established?
The museum opened to the public in 2011 under the Marlborough Motoring Trust.
How many cars are in the collection?
More than 100 cars in total, with around 50 to 60 on display at any time.
What era do the cars cover?
Vehicles from the 1950s to the 1980s, all originally available on the New Zealand market.
Are the cars roadworthy?
Yes, every vehicle is maintained in original, roadworthy condition and capable of long-distance travel.
What are the current opening hours and prices?
Hours vary by season and are listed on the official website. Adults pay $20; children under 14 are free when accompanied by an adult.
Is the museum accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages.
Can I combine a visit with the Aviation Heritage Centre?
Yes, the two attractions are next door to each other and most visitors do both in one trip.
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