Drive down memory lane in Te Puke

By COLIN MOORE

Ray Singleton's passion for motor cars is different from that of most people afflicted with the addiction.

He likes old cars and new cars and has a particular love for those of the Ford marque. But that is not what sets him and his Te Puke Vintage Auto Barn apart.

Singleton's passion is Kiwiana and the 90 vehicles in his showroom are there because they represent a slice of life in New Zealand.

"These vehicles are the way we were," says Singleton.

There is a 1925 Graham Brothers truck which he tracked down because it was the first type of truck used in the Te Puke region. He also has Model As and "Morrie" 8s, Ford Prefects and the full range of Ford Zephyrs.

Walking through the display is like a stroll down memory lane. Many of the cars belong to Singleton - "I don't know how many I have," he says - but many others are left by owners grateful that they will be lovingly stored.

All of the vehicles are in working condition and are used regularly.

"It's like a home for wayward vehicles," says Singleton.

Singleton's son, Paul, shares his father's passion. "I grew up among this," he says.

The museum includes the stationary engine and tractor collection that was housed at the Tauranga Historic Village.

* Te Puke Vintage Auto Barn is on the Tauranga-Rotorua Highway next to Kiwifruit Country. It is open daily from 9 am until 5 pm. Entry costs $2 for a child and $7 for an adult. Ph (07) 573 6547.