Largest and most revered car auction in New Zealand to take place at the 2026 Ayrburn Classic auto event

The much-anticipated Ayrburn Classic is set to return in 2026, promising another spectacular celebration of motoring, lifestyle, and luxury. This three-day event, scheduled from the 20th to 22nd of February, will take place in the picturesque town of Queenstown.

Leading the Ayrburn Classic Live Auction will be Robert Tulp, New Zealand's number-one rated auctioneer. The auction, which will take place on the 21st of February, will present a "meticulously curated collection of 40 rare, collectible, and high-performance vehicles."

In addition to the Ayrburn Classic, Sunday Drive's annual auction calendar includes the Beach Hop Auction in March 2026 and the Classic and Performance Live Auction on Sunday the 19th of October this year.

The Ayrburn Classic Class will be judged by a targeted panel of experts across refined categories. Meanwhile, the Show Field offers a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing cars to be driven in and out without the pressure of being part of the judged Ayrburn Classic Class. This year, the Show Field will debut at the Ayrburn Classic 2026, styled like a "Coffee & Cars" event.

The Show Field entries include a special lanyard pass for two people. Weekend Show Field passes are available for $150 per car, while Saturday or Sunday passes are $100 per car.

The main auction event is set to commence at 5:00 pm on Saturday, February 21st, at the Dell arena. Prospective buyers can participate in the auction through in-person attendance, online bidding, telephone bidding, or placing an absentee bid.

The "Best of the Show Field" award will be given to a car in the Show Field. The Ayrburn Classic 2026 will also feature New Zealand's largest and most prestigious live car auction, marking the highlight of the event.

First held in 2025, the Ayrburn Classic is heralded as New Zealand's premier motoring and hospitality event. It brings together rare cars, fine food and wine, and an "unmatched festival atmosphere" at one of New Zealand's most stunning destinations.

Sunday Drive, a leading consignment and auction platform for classic, rare, and performance vehicles, will manage the Ayrburn Classic Live Auction. The Ayrburn Classic 2026 will also feature the Ayrburn Classic Class, showcasing rare and exceptional cars.

Stay tuned for more updates on the person who will lead the vehicle auction at Ayrburn Classic 2026, as well as other exciting announcements leading up to this highly anticipated event.

Largest and most revered car auction in New Zealand to take place at the 2026 Ayrburn Classic auto event