Tanked up in Huntly

Des O'Sullivan takes one of his British Sabre tanks for a drive over his farm. He owns two, which he has had registered. Picture / Amos Chapple

The first couple of times Huntly farmer Des O'Sullivan took his Sabre tanks for a spin around the farm the cows got a bit of a fright - now they barely bat an eyelid.

Ever since he was a kid Mr O'Sullivan has had a fascination with tanks and wanted to own one.

"Others like classic cars or vintage vehicles. I like tanks, simple as that," the 36-year-old said.

He picked the two tanks up during a trip to Britain last year - "it was either that or a Russian bride" - but he is reluctant to reveal their cost.

The tanks have made an appearance at the Te Kauwhata Anzac Day parade and will feature in the Armistice Parade in Cambridge later this year. Every now and then Mr O'Sullivan drives them around the farm "to keep the battery charged and the oil splashing around".

Otherwise they are locked in the workshop.

Mr O'Sullivan said the idea was the tanks would be part of a mobile museum, featuring machinery owned by people around the country.

"It's an interest and a hobby. I don't get dressed up in the gear and all that."