Instead of the usual trucks and cars, 24 vintage Model T cars built between 1907 and 1927 were roaming the Gore district.
From Croydon Lodge as a home base, members of the National Model T Club toured the district, visiting Waikaia, Kingston and Curio Bay at the weekend.
Event convener Marion McConachie said it was a great event and she was happy it came to down South.
"We’ve had a group of about 33 members from all over New Zealand come for the Model T Rally, for the National Model T Club.
"This is the 32nd run we’ve done and we alternate them between islands. We’ve all come here over this weekend," she said.
Mrs McConachie said the attendees had been having a great time. Some were exploring Southland for the first time.
"Very impressed with the weather. Really enjoyed the quiet roads — coming back from Kingston [there was] barely any traffic.
"Just enjoying the open roads, the scenery. A lot of people haven’t been down here," she said.
The Model T was an easy-going vintage car which attracted a great community of enthusiasts, she said.
"There’s the ability to maintain them yourself. If they stop on the road, you can get them up and running again relatively easily."
Then there was the camaraderie.
"All our members help each other out. There’s always lots of tools and parts so we can swap stuff out and fix it up.
"It’s also about involving family and friends, everybody — well, most people can drive a Model T."
Mrs McConachie said after a few days of touring, she was very happy with how well they were received and the vibes from the community.
"We’ve come across a lot of tourists who are amazed to see these cars. You always get, you know, the honking and waving.
"It’s just been very positive," she said.
