After three successful biennial events, the fourth iteration of Wheels at Wānaka will be the event’s finale.

Wheels at Wānaka kicked off in 2019 and ran in 2021 and 2023.

“Wheels at Wānaka 2025 will be the fourth and last show,” event general manager Allan Dippie said.

“Anyone who loves machines, cars, tractors – anything and everything with wheels or tracks really – would be mad to miss it.”

Dippie said the event had grown into more than just a vintage vehicle show, becoming a “biennial migration for vehicle owners and enthusiasts, a gathering of passionate individuals sharing their love for classic, vintage, modern and unique machines”.

“From roaring engines to gleaming chrome, the event has been a celebration of New Zealand’s automotive, agricultural and construction history and the craftsmanship that goes into creating and maintaining the mechanical masterpieces,” he said.

The 2023 Wheels at Wānaka event was a huge success, with patron numbers reaching 40,700 over three days, compared with 25,000 over three days in 2021. The 2023 event generated $19.2 million of total direct spending. There were 2500 to 3000 various wheels and machines on show over the three-day event, of which 350 were trucks and 106 earthmovers.

Dippie expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from partners, participants, exhibitors, and the community, acknowledging the event’s financial contributions to many local and national charitable causes.

The 2025 show will feature a celebration of 100 years of Caterpillar, new interactive attractions, and further additions to be released in the coming months.

Dippie said the Easter 2025 Wheels at Wānaka promises to be a grand finale – “a fitting occasion to fondly farewell an event that has captivated vehicle enthusiasts from across the country and around the world”.

“The 2025 event will be buzzing with energy, with rare and exceptional vehicles plus all number of machines including hundreds of tractors, steam engines, cars, and trucks along with dirt bike races, interactive ATV, 4WD and rally demos, a huge earthmoving extravaganza, tractor and truck pull competitions and a non-stop parade ground programme,” he said.

“There’ll be a host of activities to engage attendees of all ages. Past participants and enthusiasts are encouraged to join in making this farewell edition a memorable one.”

Tickets for the 2025 event, taking place April 18-20 at Three Parks, Wānaka, are on sale now.