Repco Beach Hop 2021
I managed an evening and a day at Whangamatā's iconic Beach Hop this year and after a smaller practice event for the postponed 2020 event, this year was epic.
Thursday night cruising was a jam-packed affair - Te Awamutu Rod & Custom Club president Murray Peterson and I took an hour to do one lap of the main street in his Chev.
Friday's "Castrol Edge Thunder Cruise" to Onemana threatened to be a washout as the heavens opened just as the run left town.
Hardy souls braved the run - even those in open cars - as well as plenty of spectators en route.
They were rewarded when the sky cleared and sun shone for the rest of the day.
It was a special day for Te Awamutu couple, and rod club members, Hayley (Winki) Watters and Scott Balsom, who were married Friday evening at Whangamata's iconic Chevy Corner.
Property owner Verne Russell is also a marriage celebrant.
Hot Rod culture is alive and well in New Zealand and after 21 years Beach Hop doesn't look like slowing down.
This summer will be critical to discover if the sharks have started returning.