The annual pilgrimage of motorheads (sorry car enthusiasts!) will be winding its way around the peninsula from next Thursday when the festivities that celebrate New Zealand’s premier Classic car event kick off in Waihi.
Repco Beach Hop has grown exponentially since its inception almost 25 years ago and today stands as a major tourism drawcard for the region.
The zeitgeist of 1950s and ’60s Americana is perfectly captured by car owners and stakeholders who drive their classic cars, hot rods, and vintage caravans and soak up the live music and retro fashion.
The event, which is organised into sponsored stages, engages several coastal and plains communities. Part of the fun for participants is simply cruising and enjoying the admiring glances from onlookers, many of whom (especially from the younger generation) are getting to see vehicles that they just don’t make anymore.
Beach Hop is also great for the boon it provides to local retailers.
The influx of visitors leads to increased spending in accommodation, hospitality, and retail sectors. Hotels, motels, and holiday rentals are fully booked well in advance, while cafes, restaurants, and bars experience some of their busiest days of the year.
Local shops, petrol stations, and service providers also benefit from the surge in foot traffic, with visitors spending on everything from souvenirs to vehicle maintenance.
The event brings national and international attention to Whangamatā, a town that primarily relies on seasonal tourism. Repco Beach Hop extends the tourism season beyond the summer months, providing a much-needed economic boost in the throes of early autumn. This encourages return visits, as many attendees discover the region’s natural attractions, beaches, and hospitality.
This demand for services creates temporary and permanent job opportunities. Hospitality and retail businesses hire additional staff, and event organizers employ security personnel, stage crews, and vendors.
Additionally, local mechanics, panel beaters, and car detailing businesses experience an increase in demand due to the high volume of classic car enthusiasts needing vehicle-related services.
Repco Beach Hop has a strong community focus, with proceeds often supporting local charities and community projects. Over the years, the festival has raised significant funds for emergency services, schools, and other community groups, reinvesting money into the region.
See you at the hop!
Jim
