A gleaming affair for a worthy cause
The Nelson Vintage Car Club is revving up for a spectacular Daffodil Day Show 'n' Shine event, scheduled for Sunday, August 25. This annual gathering, held in support of the Cancer Society Nelson Tasman, promises a vibrant display of automotive beauty and community spirit. Aiming for an unprecedented turnout, the Nelson Vintage Car Club is determined to break records this year. Recognising the unpredictable nature of New Zealand's weather, the club has arranged a postponement date of Sunday, September 1, ensuring that the show goes on, rain or shine.
The nationwide event is part of an initiative run by the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand, which boasts approximately 10,000 members across 36 branches. The Nelson Tasman branch, which celebrated their 60-year anniversary earlier this year, kicks off at the Speedway on Lansdowne Road, with gates opening at 11:00 AM. Just $10 per vehicle secures entry into the Show 'n' Shine event, inviting a wide array of vehicles to be showcased.
Now in its seventh year, the Daffodil Day fundraiser welcomes all vehicle owners to participate, not just vintage cars or club members. The region is home to numerous car clubs, each representing various makes and models. This event aims to bring together these diverse clubs and the public for a successful fundraiser and an enjoyable day out.
Organising such a large-scale event often presents scheduling challenges and this year was no exception, says coordinator and co-organiser, Ray Robertson. “Special thanks are due to Shane Kemp and the Moutere Hop Team for adjusting their plans to merge their cruise with the Show 'n' Shine. Enthusiasts can join the Moutere Hop cruise, beginning at the Moutere Hills Recreation Centre between 9:30 and 10:30 AM. For $15, participants gain entry to both the cruise and the Show 'n' Shine.”
Historically, the event has attracted up to 400 vehicles and 900 participants, raising between $8,000 to $10,000. This year, the hope is to exceed these numbers. The event will feature food and coffee carts and live background music, ensuring a festive atmosphere for all attendees.
“Cancer affects everyone, and the goal is to raise as much as possible for Cancer Society Nelson Tasman. Every dollar collected by the Vintage Car Club and the Moutere Hop Team goes directly to the Society, supporting travel, treatments, and a range of vital services.”
The highlight of the day will be the Cancer Society Nelson Tasman raffle draw at 2:00 PM. Michelle Hunt, Centre Manager for the Society, expressed deep gratitude for the ongoing support, saying. "The Nelson Vintage Car Club organisers do an amazing job every year. They put in a lot of effort to ensure a fun day, and we appreciate all their hard work. The Cancer Society Nelson Tasman’s Supportive Care service provides free, comprehensive assistance to those affected by cancer, offering practical help and emotional support. In the 2023-2024 financial year alone, the Society supported 520 patients and their families.
Services include Volunteer Driving, Volunteer Visitor Programs, Counselling, Regional Support Groups, Yoga Classes, Gym Programs, Hardship Grants, one-on-one support, cancer information and resources, advocacy in navigating health services, connections with other agencies, and support for whānau (families) with Tamariki (children). Funds generated locally from Daffodil Day and other fundraising initiatives directly support our community, we receive no government funding, so your donations are crucial. The small but passionate team is dedicated to offering tailored support to those affected by cancer. Whether for yourself or someone you know, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
Event organiser, Rob Thompson says, everyone is welcome at the event. “The more the merrier! Families are always welcome and with a bit of luck we will have quite a few vehicles on display for everyone to see.”
Extending a heartfelt thanks to their supporters, Rob is emphatic in his response. “Everyone is just so generous, and we are always blown away by the kindness of people. Often people will drop a bit more in the bucket than what is required for the entry fee and boy, that really gets us, it is just great!”
Over the years, event participants have raised more than $40,000 for the Cancer Society. This year, the goal is to set a new record.
For more information about the August 25 Show 'n' Shine, contact event organiser Rob Thompson at 027 547 5120. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a day of dazzling cars and community spirit while supporting a crucial cause. If you can't make it on the day, you can still donate via www.cancernelson.org.nz/donate.
Nelson Vintage Car Club Daffodil Day Show 'n' Shine
· Sunday, August 25
· Nelson Speedway on Lansdowne Road
· Gates open at 11am
· Entry fee $10 per vehicle – all welcome!
· All funds raised will be donated to Cancer Society Nelson Tasman
