However, there was no state of emergency; it was a gathering of more than 50 classic cars and trucks as part of the Dunedin Hurricanes Rodders club’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
The classic American and Australian vehicle enthusiasts had gathered at the castle for lunch after a morning cruise from the club’s headquarters in South Dunedin.
Among them were Balclutha husband and wife Alan and Anne Bichan, who had travelled in Alan’s restored 1947 Ford Jailbar. Together they own four classic vehicles, although one of them is still in pieces, Mr Bichan said.
They enjoyed the camaraderie with the other owners, many of whom were old friends, Mrs Bichan said.
"You get to know everyone and their cars and then their new cars. It’s a really great time."
Usually, the annual gathering was held in Central Otago. It was being held in Dunedin to mark the club’s 50th birthday. Club president Wayne Nicol said about 160 motorists took part in the weekend’s events, including about a dozen of the club’s founding members.
"[There are vehicles] from 1923 up to the mid or late ’60s," Mr Nicol said.
The turnout was the highest for five years, he said.
Yesterday, the hot rods were on display in the Octagon before the club members travelled in convoy to Waihola for a leisurely lunch, where their vehicles were a hit with families.
Mr Nicol said a prizegiving evening would be held in Toitu Otago Settlers Museum. The event was more about having fun than about who had the best car, and he thought the Waihola publican might be asked to select his favourite.
