Last updated July 2026
The Nelson Classic Car Museum in Nelson, New Zealand, houses a private collection of more than 150 beautifully restored veteran, vintage and classic cars spanning over 120 years of motoring history. Located at 1 Cadillac Way in Annesbrook, the purpose-built facility sits between Nelson city centre and Nelson Airport, offering an indoor experience suitable for any weather. The museum showcases vehicles from a 1903 Cadillac, the oldest in the collection and a local Nelson car since new, through 1950s models such as Vauxhalls, Triumphs and Buicks, to later icons including Jaguars and Ferraris. Visitors can also enjoy the on-site Little Engine Eatery café and a gift store featuring local ceramics, jewellery, prints and collectables. The site was formerly home to the Nelson Motor Vehicle Assembly Plant, known locally as the Honda Factory, and the front shed remains the last original building from that era.
Practical Information
| Address | 1 Cadillac Way, Annesbrook, Nelson 7011 |
| Opening Hours | Daily 10am–4pm (closed Christmas Day) |
| Admission | Adult $20; Child (5–15) $8; Senior/NZ Student $15; Family (1 adult + 2 children) $30; Family (2 adults + 2 children) $50; Annual Pass $30 |
| Parking | Free on-site parking |
| Facilities | Café (Little Engine Eatery), gift store, board room for hire, accessible pathways and parking |
| Website | nelsonclassiccarmuseum.nz |
About Nelson Classic Car Museum
The Nelson Classic Car Museum presents a personal collection begun locally in 1967 and opened to the public in 2001. Most vehicles belong to one local family, with many restored on site. The majority of cars are not roped off, allowing close viewing, and around 40 are typically road-ready. The collection is described as a live one, with vehicles occasionally used for events, so displays vary slightly week to week.
The museum occupies the site of the former Nelson Motor Vehicle Assembly Plant (1970–1998), which assembled more than 160,000 vehicles including Triumph, Leyland, Rover, Jaguar, Daimler, Austin, Land Rover and Honda models. The front shed is the last surviving original building from the plant. The collection includes the world’s fastest Mini, a Bonneville Speed Week record holder, and spans from the 1903 Cadillac to a 2024 Chevrolet Corvette C8.
Visitors typically spend 1–2 hours exploring the two display buildings. The indoor setting and family-friendly atmosphere make it suitable for all ages and weather conditions. The museum also hosts regular events including monthly Cars & Coffee gatherings and twice-yearly Hoods Up! Friday evenings with open bonnets.
History and Wearable Art Connection
The site previously housed the World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum. The wearable art collection closed to the public in March 2020 ahead of COVID-19 lockdowns, and the venue reopened in August 2020 after refurbishment as the Nelson Classic Car Museum. The World of WearableArt show itself had relocated from Nelson to Wellington in 2005, with remaining Nelson operations moving to Wellington in late 2025. Informational displays at the museum acknowledge this shared history and Nelson’s creative heritage.
Visitor Amenities and Experience
The Little Engine Eatery café on site serves wholesome made-on-the-premises food, brunch, lunch and snacks alongside excellent coffee from L’affare. The museum store stocks ceramics, jewellery, prints, books and other mementos from local makers. Free parking is available, and the facility includes designated accessible parking and pathways. Group bookings and board room hire are offered for meetings, events or small functions. Tickets are valid all day, and an annual pass option is available.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the impressive range and pristine condition of the cars, noting the opportunity for close-up viewing without barriers. Many appreciate the personal stories behind the collection and the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Reviewers frequently mention the convenient location near the airport, the quality of the on-site café and the interesting historical connection to the former assembly plant. The indoor venue is highlighted as a reliable option regardless of weather.
Where to Learn More
Nelson Classic Car Museum official website: Current opening hours, ticket prices, event details and online shop.
Wikipedia – Nelson Classic Car Museum: Overview of the museum’s history, collection size and location details with references to primary sources.
Museum Story page: Detailed account of the collection’s origins, the former factory site and visitor recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the Nelson Classic Car Museum today?
The museum focuses exclusively on its collection of more than 150 classic cars on display at any time. The wearable art exhibition closed in 2020.
Where is the Nelson Classic Car Museum located?
It is at 1 Cadillac Way, Annesbrook, Nelson, between the city centre and Nelson Airport.
What are the opening hours and ticket prices?
The museum is open daily 10am–4pm except Christmas Day. Adult admission is $20, with concessions and family options available.
Is the museum suitable for families?
Yes, it offers an indoor, family-friendly environment with close-up car viewing and an on-site café.
Are there dining options at the museum?
The Little Engine Eatery café provides brunch, lunch, snacks and coffee on site.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
The facility includes designated accessible parking and pathways.
How long should visitors plan to spend at the museum?
Most visitors allow 1–2 hours to explore the collection, café and store at a relaxed pace.
Does the museum host events?
Yes, it runs monthly Cars & Coffee gatherings, twice-yearly Hoods Up! Friday evenings and other events such as the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive.
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