Auto Madness Turns 10: A Decade of Horsepower, Heritage, and Hikurangi Pride

Hikurangi is gearing up for a milestone worth celebrating, the 10‑year anniversary of Auto Madness, rolling into the Hikurangi Sports Grounds on Saturday 21 February 2026. What began as a grassroots gathering of local car lovers has grown into one of Northland’s most anticipated community events, drawing classic cars, hot rods, bikes, trucks, and unique builds from across the region.

With the countdown now on, it’s the perfect moment to look back at the automotive spirit that has shaped Hikurangi for generations.

A Community with Petrol in Its Veins

Long before Auto Madness existed, Hikurangi had a reputation for being hands‑on, mechanically minded, and fiercely proud of its local talent. The town’s history is steeped in industries that demanded grit and ingenuity, from coal mining to engineering workshops and that same practical skillset naturally fed into a thriving car culture.

Old photos in the Hikurangi Historical Museum show early 20th‑century streets lined with Model Ts, workhorses of the era, and the occasional lovingly maintained family sedan polished for a weekend outing. Locals have always taken pride in their machines, whether for work or for show.

Northland’s Classic Car and Hot Rod Heritage

Northland has long been home to a passionate community of classic car owners and hot‑rodders. From backyard rebuilds to long‑running car clubs like the Northland Vintage Car Club, Classic & Sports Car Club Northland Inc the region has nurtured generations of enthusiasts who keep automotive history alive.

Weekend runs, club meets, and community parades have been part of the local rhythm for decades. Many of the vehicles that turn up at Auto Madness have been rebuilt in sheds tucked down rural driveways, the kind of places where knowledge is passed down like family recipes. Local garages and mechanics have played a huge role too, keeping older engines humming and helping preserve the region’s automotive heritage.

This culture laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Auto Madness, a celebration not just of vehicles, but of the people who build, restore, and love them.

The Birth and Growth of Auto Madness

Auto Madness began with a simple idea: bring the community together around something everyone could enjoy. A small group of locals, car lovers, volunteers, and community champions, pulled together the first event with the hope that a few dozen vehicles might show up.

Instead, they were blown away.

The event quickly became a highlight on the Hikurangi calendar, attracting classic cars and hot rods from across Northland, along with motorbikes, trucks, custom builds, and families looking for a great day out. Each year, the event grew, more vehicles, more spectators, more stalls, more buzz. Local businesses stepped up to support it, and the show became a point of pride for our town.

By the mid‑2020s, Auto Madness had become one of the region’s most recognisable community events, known for its friendly atmosphere, impressive line‑ups, and the unmistakable sound of engines rolling into the grounds at dawn.

Auto Madness back in 2017 - King St

Vehicles being displayed on King St

Aerial view of the 2018 event

auto madness when it was at the school

Stock Racing Cars at the 2025 event

Land rovers at the 2025 Evnet

Why Auto Madness Matters

Auto Madness isn’t just a car show, it’s a celebration of Hikurangi’s identity.

It brings together generations of families who’ve grown up around engines and workshops, local businesses like Sure Flo Plumbing who back the event year after year, visitors who discover the charm and character of Hikurangi, and community groups who benefit from the energy and foot traffic.

Events like this create memories, spark passions, and remind us of the value of coming together.

The Countdown Is On

With the 10‑year anniversary just around the corner, excitement is building. Whether you’re a long‑time participant, a first‑time entrant, or someone who simply loves a good day out, this year’s Auto Madness promises to be something special.

Saturday 21 February 2026 - mark it on your calendar.

Bring your whānau, bring your mates, and bring your love of all things automotive.

Hikurangi is ready to celebrate a decade of chrome, culture, and community and you’re invited.