Classics Museum

The Classics Museum in Hamilton is New Zealand’s premier destination for vintage car enthusiasts and families. Showcasing over 60 classic and vintage vehicles, the museum offers a unique journey through automotive history, highlighting rare legends and iconic vehicles that have shaped motoring over the decades. Classics Museum has a combination of hands-on exhibits, a 1950s-themed diner, and a welcoming atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Classics Museum

At the heart of Hamilton, the Classics Museum brings together a carefully curated collection of vehicles, from European classics to historic New Zealand models. The exhibits include prized cars such as the 1937 Bugatti Ventoux and the 1936 Bugatti Atlantic—unique pieces displayed exclusively in New Zealand. Alongside the vehicles, visitors can explore one of the world’s largest petrol memorabilia and sign collections, offering insight into the evolution of motoring culture.

The museum frequently rotates its featured cars, ensuring that each visit presents new discoveries. In addition to the cars, the museum hosts events, family activities, and themed exhibitions throughout the year, providing opportunities to engage with motoring history.

Hamilton Museum

More than just a car collection, the Classics Museum serves as a key cultural attraction in Hamilton. Visitors can enjoy a family-friendly environment with wheelchair accessibility, non-commercial photography, and guided tours on request. The museum also accommodates group bookings and educational visits, making it a versatile destination for schools, clubs, and organisations seeking to explore automotive heritage.

A standout feature of the museum is the Belair Lounge, a dedicated function space ideal for private events, corporate functions, or milestone celebrations. The lounge combines vintage aesthetics with modern amenities, including seating for up to 90 guests, standing capacity for 150, and integrated media equipment. Guests also have the option to access the museum exhibits exclusively during events.

Adjacent to the museum, the Jukebox Diner offers a 1950s-themed dining experience. Guests can enjoy classic meals in a retro setting, with special discounts available when presenting a museum ticket. The diner is suitable for family outings, private functions, and celebratory events, with flexible catering options and a dedicated children’s area. Whether dining during a museum visit or hosting a private gathering, the Jukebox Diner provides a convenient and enjoyable complement to the Classics Museum experience.

Vintage Cars

The museum’s collection spans multiple eras and vehicle types. Highlights include classic Cadillacs, Ford Model As, Japanese microcars, and historic racing vehicles such as Scott Dixon’s championship-winning Formula Ford. The range of vehicles demonstrates both the technological advancements and stylistic changes in motoring over the last century.

Alongside the cars, the museum’s petrol memorabilia and signage provide context, reflecting the broader history of fuel, branding, and road culture. Collectors and casual visitors appreciate the attention to detail in these displays, which complement the vehicles and enrich the overall experience.

Plan Your Visit

The Classics Museum in Hamilton is open throughout the week, welcoming families, car enthusiasts, and visitors interested in New Zealand’s automotive history. Tickets can be booked online, and group rates are available for parties of 10 or more. The museum is easily accessible, with parking options on-site and nearby.