World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum
Nelson City
The World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum in Nelson, New Zealand, is renowned for its outstanding collection of over 150 classic and vintage automobiles, representing more than 120 years of motoring heritage. Established in 2001, this museum originally combined award-winning wearable art with a vast classic car collection, creating a unique cultural attraction. However, since May 2020, it focuses exclusively on its automotive exhibits following the permanent closure of the wearable art exhibition due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The museum's collection includes early 20th-century veteran and vintage cars, iconic American models from the 1950s and 1960s such as Cadillacs, as well as European luxury and sports cars from brands like Jaguar and Ferrari. Many vehicles hold local significance, including those assembled at the former Nelson Standard Triumph factory, which operated on the museum's site from 1965 until 1998. The cars are displayed against architecturally inspired façades reflecting Nelson's local heritage, enhancing the visitor experience. Facilities include the Little Engine Eatery café, offering wholesome food and coffee, and a museum store featuring New Zealand-made arts, crafts, and jewelry. The museum also provides conference and event spaces, making it a versatile venue for community and business gatherings. Open daily with free parking and cycle facilities, it is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and cultural visitors alike.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays or outside peak holiday seasons for a more relaxed experience. Advance group bookings are recommended for parties of 20 or more. The museum offers discounted rates for seniors, students, and families, as well as annual passes for frequent visitors. Don't miss the special 'Hoods Up!' event for an intimate look under the hoods and inside the dashboards of over 100 classic cars. Parking is free, and the onsite café provides quality refreshments to enhance your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The museum houses more than 150 classic cars spanning over 120 years of motoring history.
- •It is located on the site of the former Standard Triumph car assembly plant, which operated from 1965 to 1998.
- •The collection includes rare vehicles such as a 1908 Renault AX and iconic American Cadillacs from the 1950s and 1960s.
- •The museum was once home to the World of WearableArt exhibition until its closure in 2020 due to the pandemic.
- •Classic American Magazine named it "New Zealand's coolest car collection."
History
The museum opened in 2001 as a combined venue for wearable art and classic cars.
The site has a rich industrial past, originally purchased by the government in the late 1950s for a cotton mill project that was never completed.
In 1964, the site was sold to Standard Triumph New Zealand, which assembled vehicles such as the Triumph 2000 and Herald until the factory closed in 1998.
The wearable art exhibition closed permanently in May 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, after which the museum refocused solely on its classic car collection.
Place Guide
Early Automobiles ExhibitEarly 1900s
Features veteran and vintage cars from the early 20th century, including models like the 1908 Renault AX, showcasing the origins of motoring.
American Classics Gallery1950s-1960s
Showcases iconic American cars from the 1950s and 1960s, including multiple Cadillac models, Vauxhalls, and Buicks, reflecting the golden era of American motoring.
European Sports and Luxury CarsMid 20th century
Features prestigious European brands such as Jaguar and Ferrari, exemplifying luxury, performance, and design excellence.
Nelson Assembly Line Tribute1965-1998
Dedicated to cars assembled at the Nelson Standard Triumph factory, emphasizing local automotive manufacturing heritage from 1965 to 1998.
Little Engine Eatery
An onsite café offering wholesome, made-on-premises food and exceptional coffee, ideal for visitors to relax and refuel during their museum tour.
Museum Store
Features New Zealand-made arts, crafts, ceramics, jewelry, prints, and books, supporting local designers and makers.
Contact
Phone: 03 547 4570