New Zealand Classic Car 406, July/August 2026

Rebirth of a brilliant Grand Tourer –1973 Datsun 240Z
How often do we long for that ultimate dream sports car, and that dream comes true? This is about one of the most influential Japanese cars of all time, a car that changed the sports car market.
This is about much more than the restoration of an iconic classic sports car, the 240Z. It’s about the culmination of a dream over many years and the friendships made. It’s about the people who helped and the professionals whose approach ensured that the dream became a reality, an attitude typical of the industry we call ‘classic restoration experts’.
It is no surprise that the outcome after a lengthy search by Conrad Van der Geest for the right Datsun 240Z culminated in a trophy for the best Japanese car at this year’s Caroline Bay Beach, Rock N’ Hop at Timaru.
Originally a roadworthy car in running order, it was left-hand-drive and had been driven for several years by its Timaru owner, as Conrad explains.
“A neighbour, Dave Barron, knew I was looking for one and introduced me to the owner. I had seen the car being driven around Timaru. It was unusual for one of these coming originally from California, so it was a really clean car instead of rusty, as they are prone to rust. The story goes that the grandfather passed it onto his grandson, who decided to sell it, and that’s when it came over here."
Every issue comes with our FREE huge wall poster; this issue, it's our cover car for this edition, this 1973 Datsun 240Z

To purchase a copy of this magazine, see the bottom of this column.
To view a fully-illustrated content rundown of this issue, head here to our website

The Ayrburn Classic 2027
Early bird tickets and car entries are n ow open for The Ayrburn Classic 2027
The countdown to The Ayrburn Classic 2027 is officially on. Following the extraordinary success of our 2026 event.
The Ayrburn Classic to Arrowtown from 19–21 February 2027, and we're thrilled to announce that both Early Bird tickets and vehicle entries are now available at www.ayrburnclassic.com.
The German Shadow Legend
There are images, silhouettes from the twentieth century that are well known the world over. After more than 60 years, the silhouette of the 911 Porsche remains a recognised style icon.
An interview with Andy Buchanan – Part 1
“ You’re always first out to practise, first on the grid and first over the line," Scuderia Veloce Racing Manager, David McKay, once said to Andy Buchanan, who became one of New Zealand’s most successful sports car racing drivers back when this was a formidable racing class.
Aussie icon workhorse – 1973 Holden HQ Ute
Launched in July 1971, the Holden HQ ute was a major redesign of GM-Holden’s commercial range, aimed at improving comfort, safety, handling, and durability over the HG series it replaced. The HQ models became Holden’s second biggest seller ever.
Harlow’s Classics: And Ford said, no!
How did an experimental car from the Italian design house of Frua end up in New Zealand? Patrick’s curiosity was piqued when he saw this stylish coupe at a Wellington car show, so he investigated and found it’s a surprising story.
Melissa’s Garage: Drive like a girl!
Breaking stereotypes on the track with Danielle Hurst What Were You Doing at 12 Years Old? Before most teenagers even think about getting a learner's licence, Danielle Hurst had already earned her race licence, and she wasn’t even old enough to drive on the road!
Motorman: The saga of the Rover SD1
As the Rover SD1 marks its 50th birthday, is it time to forget about that stylish body or revive it as a true classic? Donn Anderson seeks the answer after living with a 1978 model 3500 for 12 years.
Market Report: Porsche 996
Anyone in the market for a classic or would-be classic Porsche 911 these days generally has to set aside close to at least six figures to get a look in. Or do you?
Le Mans 1966: 60 years of controversy – part 2
Vaughan concludes his look at Le Mans 1966 with the Kiwi input for Ford’s GT40, a race that still inspires debate today.
To France with flair, part 1
For 26 years, the Rallye des Princesses Richard Mille has attracted car enthusiasts from all over the world. The Rallye celebrates a lifestyle of elegance and a passion for collecting and driving performance and classic cars, with one important cachet: ladies-only!
John Hardy Chronicles – Part 2
The Hardy family and friends' motor racing history
Now retired and living in Christchurch, John Hardy has documented some fascinating memories of his grandfather and