The Octagon was alive with the sound of rumbling engines and excited car enthusiasts during the start of the 66th Dunedin to Brighton Veteran Car Rally on Saturday.
Thirty-three cars and four motorbikes lined up for the annual run, while hundreds of people turned out to check out the shiny vintage vehicles before they set off.
Among those preparing for a sunny scenic drive was Andrew Sim (80), of Methven, who brought his 1906 Cadillac.
He bought the car, which was restored in Nelson in the 1960s, about eight years ago, and had driven in several Brighton rallies since, he said.
"It’s just a great bunch of people, and the roads are all right as long as you keep away from the hills."
The car had quickly become obsolete as it did not have a windscreen or a hood — meaning driving in the rain was not a good idea, he said.
Also along for the trip were Colin and Joan Pearce, of Mosgiel.
But instead of choosing between their favourites, they had four vehicles in the rally — a 1911 Sunbeam, a 1912 Sunbeam, a 1914 Sunbeam and a 1911 Indian motorcycle.
The Indian was bought from his brother in 1959, and had been ridden in 12 Brighton rallies since, Mr Pearce said.
It was ridden by his grandson-in-law in yesterday’s run.
The rubber hit the road at 11am, after a welcome from Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins.
Rally organiser Colin Winter said he had been "quite chuffed" with the turnout in recent years, which averaged between 30 and 40 vehicles.
"People like going out — it’s an easy rally; it’s pretty laid back."
After leaving the city, they drove out to the Brighton Domain before enjoying some field tests and lunch. They had dinner at the Otago Golf Club on Saturday night and drove out to Carey’s Bay yesterday.
