Classic cars, hot rods and a whole lot of heart will come together this weekend when the Oilers Hot Rod Club hosts its annual Automotive Display and Charity Auction in support of Vada’s Angels Animal Rescue.

The family-friendly event will take place at Tauranga Racecourse on Sunday, with hundreds of people expected to enjoy the vehicles, live music, kids’ corner, food and market stalls, face painting and auction.

Now in its seventh year, and fourth at Tauranga Racecourse, the event has raised thousands of dollars for charity, with the club donating about $6000 to Vada’s Angels in 2025.

Oilers Hot Rod Club co-founder and president Brent ‘Woody’ Woodcock, said the event continued to grow as members looked for ways to make it bigger and better.

“Our aim is to be giving them $20,000 or $30,000, but it’s pretty tough out there,” he said.

Brent Woodcock with his 1932 Ford two-door sedan. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

A major highlight will be the no-reserve charity auction, to begin at 11am or possibly earlier, with about 20 to 25 items to go under the hammer. All proceeds will go directly to Vada’s Angels.

“There’s a water blaster, and a weed eater,” Woody said, adding that local businesses donated items to support the auction.

The club also auctions a board displaying the names of its sponsors. “It generally ends up at my house, and I pay far too much for something that we’ve made in the first place,” he joked.

The event will showcase the work of Vada’s Angels, which rescues and rehomes animals.

Visitors can meet rescue animals, including dogs and puppies, lambs and horses, with potential for some to find their forever homes.

Vada’s Angels founder Katrina Thompson said The Oilers Hot Rod Club New Zealand had been incredible supporters for a few years now. “We rely on their support at time of year, as donations slow with Christmas coming. We are really grateful for their support.”

The event will also have market stalls, food trucks, coffee, ice creams, raffles and live music from the Fine Cadillac band. Trophies will be awarded to standout vehicles, with Vada’s Angels representatives and club members choosing the cars they like.

“The event is aimed at being a fun, relaxing family day,” Woody said. “Bring a picnic if you want, or there’s food and ice creams.”

The club expects about 200 vehicles to attend, potentially bringing about 400 people, with additional members of the public welcome.

Oilers Hot Rod Club members Paul Davison, Rach Marshall, Brent Woodcock and Pete Wise are gearing up for their annual Automotive Display and Charity Auction on November 8. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

All vehicles of interest are welcome, and visitors do not need to own a classic car or hot rod to enjoy the day.

Held the second Sunday of November each year, the fundraiser aims to become a regular fixture on the local calendar.

“The more support and sponsorship we can get moving forward, the better,” Woody said. “The event has no main sponsor but we’re looking into having a naming rights sponsor in the future.”

Animal food, towels, blankets and toys are welcome as donations too, for Vada’s Angels.

Anyone interested in having a market stall can contact the Oilers Hot Rod Club or Vada’s Angels Animal Rescue.

Vehicle owners wishing to display their cars should arrive between 7.30am and 8.45am. Car entry is gold coin donation.

The Oilers Hot Rod Club NZ Inc Automotive Display and Charity Auction runs from 9am to 1pm on November 8, at Tauranga Racecourse. Public entry is also by gold coin donation.