Southward Car Museum
A must visit for car enthusiasts and history buffs, discover some of the world’s rarest and most valuable vehicles on display at Australasia's largest private car collection.
About Southward Car Museum
Step into automotive history
Housing more than 500 rare and remarkable vehicles, the Southward Car Museum offers a fascinating journey through time. Step into automotive history as you discover classics like a “Back to the Future” DeLorean and 1950 “gangster special” Cadillac, complete with genuine bullet holes.
The collection extends beyond cars, featuring an eclectic mix of vehicles from motorcycles to carriages, traction engines to tuk-tuks and even several aircraft.
A labour of love
Sir Len Southward’s love for automobiles began at an early age, with a passion for riding and repairing motorcycles.
Alongside his wife, Vera, his collection started in the 1950’s with the purchase of a Ford Model T. As his collection expanded, the need for a purpose-build museum arose, leading to the creation of the Southward Car Museum in the 1970s.
Beyond his love for cars, he become well known in New Zealand for his speedboating prowess, being the first person to exceed 100 miles per hour (160km/h) in Australasian in 1953.
What's on at Southward Car Museum
The Southward Car Museum Theatre hosts a variety of shows and events, from musicals and theatre to comedies. Set amidst spacious, park-like grounds, it is also home to the popular Coffee and Cars event, along with other festivals.