Big trucks, emergency vehicles, model machinery and plenty of horsepower will take over Renwick this month when the Festival of Wheels returns for another action-packed day. Following the success of its 2025 relaunch after a decade-long break, the free community event is back at BDO Renwick Sports & Events Centre on Sunday, 18 October, from 11am to 2pm.
Organised as a celebration of all things wheels, the Festival of Wheels will bring together vehicle enthusiasts, families and visitors from across Marlborough for a day of impressive machinery, displays and activities.
Festival organiser Pam Benseman says this year’s event is shaping up to be bigger and better. “We have multiple entrants across our categories, with some impressive machinery coming along, particularly in the earthworks category,” she says. “There’s going to be a great variety of vehicles for people to see, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone back to Renwick.”
One of the highlights will be the expanded emergency and armed services display. After Fire and Emergency New Zealand brought a vehicle along to last year’s event, the display has grown to include Ambulance, Police and the New Zealand Air Force, giving visitors the chance to get up close to the vehicles and equipment used by these services.
For younger visitors, there will be plenty to see and do, with the event designed to provide a fun and accessible day out for the whole family.
The popular model display inside the BDO Renwick Sports & Events Centre is also expanding this year, with Nelson Model Trucks and Grandpa Simpson’s Collectibles bringing along their impressive collections.
From giant earthmoving machinery to emergency vehicles and detailed scale models, organisers say there will be something to capture the interest of all ages.
The Festival of Wheels is not only about the vehicles, but also about bringing the Marlborough community together and showcasing the people, businesses, organisations and enthusiasts who share a passion for all things on wheels.
“We want it to be a great community day where families can come along, have a look around, talk to the exhibitors and enjoy seeing some machinery and vehicles they might not normally get the chance to see up close,” Pam says.
With the event returning after its successful revival last year, organisers are hoping to see plenty of families and vehicle enthusiasts through the gates.
Festival of Wheels 2026
Sunday, 18 October 2026
11am–2pm
BDO Renwick Sports & Events Centre
Uxbridge Street, Renwick
Free entry
