The days are rushing by, especially now that registrations for the 2026 Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring are now open. Before we know it, August 31st will be here and registrations will be closing.

It’s always a bit nerve wracking when you open up registrations for something like this, but the initial registrations we’ve had flowing in have put a smile on our faces. Registrations are actually open for a long time and there’s room for many more entrants, but at this point, we’ve got a significant amount more registrations than we had at the same point for the previous event. We’re hopeful that this early rush will translate into larger numbers of entrants than we’ve had in recent festivals.

Registrations close on 31 August 2025. Late registrations are available up to 30th November 2025 but will cost an extra $200. Don’t leave it too late!

We know historically that many people will hold off registering until the month before registrations close, and we completely understand that. It is very encouraging though to have so many people signed up already. If you’re one of the people holding off entering just remember that the Teams Relay Challenge, which will be a great fun event, is limited to 300 vehicles. Late entrants may miss out on competing (but will of course be able to cheer the teams on). The challenge is designed for all VCC eligible vehicles and every shape, size, physical ability, and age of entrant. You don’t need to organise a team – just register and turn up. You can also choose to enter a different VCC eligible vehicle for the challenge.

If you have any questions about the Teams Relay Challenge email Rob Thompson at rob.karen@slingshot.co.nz

As with previous international events we have a number of overseas entrants keen to borrow vehicles. Loaning a spare vehicle is a great chance to meet enthusiasts from overseas or for those who can’t drive their own vehicle, to enter and share the experience. VCC branch secretaries have been sent a list and short biographies of people looking for cars to use for the event.

If you have a vehicle you could spare or share please have a look at the list at your branch and/or contact Karen Thompson at festivalsecretary@vcc.org.nz

Whenever you decide to sign up, we’ll be happy. We’re looking forward to seeing you in 2026 for a fabulous week enjoying the vehicles we love with historic vehicle rallies throughout the beautiful Nelson Tasman region, an exciting Teams Relay Challenge, and huge public displays. Socialise with old friends and new each day on the runs and at nightly entertainment and dinners. All events are open to all club eligible vehicles.