Traditionally a day of cars, shopping, food and entertainment, this year, Pukehina Surf n Sand Autorama is spreading its wings.

The event, set to take place on March 8, will this year include a pre-Autorama get-together at Pukehina Beach as well as a post-event gathering.

Two years ago, organisers were forced to find a new location after Midway Park at Pukehina Beach was damaged by flooding, making it unsuitable for the event.

At short notice it was moved to Pukehina School, away from the beach, where it was also held last year.

Its growth and popularity is now at such a level that there is no longer a space big enough to accommodate it at Pukehina Beach.

Kirsty Garret, a member of the group organising the event, said the pre- and post-Autorama events are ways to keep Pukehina Beach involved.

“We want to keep it Pukehina as much as we can.”

Cruising with music

On March 7 there will be a Friday Night Cruise centred on Monty’s Café and Bar from 6pm, with local band Plan B and Marty Mitchell, a member of the Pink Floyd Experience, playing live.

After the Autorama event itself, from 4pm it’s back to Marty’s for more music with Wing It.

“We are trying to make a weekend of it, rather than just a four-hour event.”

Garret said this year’s Autorama will be bigger and better.

Provisions have been made to accommodate more cars – for those wanting to exhibit their vehicles, and visitors – with land at a nearby farm available.

“The trust that owns the farm adjacent to the school has been incredibly supportive.”

Open invite

As it is an open-invitation event, there is no telling how many vehicles will be shown, but the numbers turning up in the past suggest vehicles will comprise a big display and the advice is to get there early if you want the best spots.

The cost to display is $10.

Crowds enjoying the market at a Pukehina Surf n Sand Autorama.

Among the vehicles invited are a top-fuel drag car and military vehicles.

There will be live music, with a higher stage than in the past, an improved sound system, internet access will be boosted for the day, allowing limited Eftpos.

New this year will be Rocker Cover racing, featuring cars made from rocker covers, and Matchbox car racing – where other makes of toy car will also be allowed.

Cars will be available to race or you can take your own.

“We have some amazing sponsors and prizes on the day – we have been truly blessed, particularly when we know times are hard for so many people,” Garret said.

More than just cars

There will be 70 market and food stalls.

“There will be lots of interesting things, we are just looking forward to doing it again,” said Garret.

Money raised by the event will be distributed to Inspire Kindergarten Ōtamarākau, Pukehina Fishing Club, Youth Encounter, Pukehina Volunteer Fire Brigade and Pukehina Surf Rescue.

Pukehina Surf n Sand Autorama is at Pukehina School, 1762 Old Coach Rd.

Those wanting to display a vehicle are asked to arrive between 8am and 10am, with the event starting at 10am.

Public entry is by gold coin donation.