Waimak Valuations

Another beautiful South Island road I was able to explore this week - for anyone looking for a beautiful 30 minute drive, the road between Cromwell and Alexandra is a must!

Remember the MX‑5? The little Japanese sports car that everyone loved.

I remember it well. This one was mine. It cost next to nothing at the time.

I tried to buy another recently and the cheap MX‑5 I remember is gone.

Markets move fast. Demand changes. Good opportunities disappear.

I kept thinking there would be a cheaper one. A better time. Another chance.
But cars like the MX‑5 eventually hit the nostalgia wave. Once they do, values climb quickly.

If you have a modern classic in the garage, it might be worth more than you think.

Waimak Valuations can tell you where it sits in today’s market.

Another beautiful morning at Queenstown’s Cars and Coffee, held at Five Mile. While this was supposed to be the “Spring” edition, the fresh snow on the Remarkables (and lower!), would tell us otherwise!

We all know you can pick options for your new vehicles - but I've never seen those options displayed quite like this!

In China, we saw Xiaomi's new EV Hypercar displayed in their showroom - equally as impressive as some of their headline options (700 bhp in the top package!) was their design options hung on the wall.

Gave me some new ideas for my living room, that's for sure!

What Makes a Car a Future Classic?

Limited‑run imports, rare specifications, mechanical character, originality, and strong service history all play a role in long‑term value. Many vehicles that were once everyday transport are now entering the modern‑classic zone.

At Waimak Valuations, we analyse these factors daily to determine which vehicles are becoming genuine assets in the NZ market. If you’re unsure where your vehicle sits, a professional valuation provides clarity.

What do you think? Has your vehicle become a classic?

Arrowtown Auto Show registrations are officially open!

This event is always one of the best days on the local car calendar - classics, vintage beauties, exotics, JDM heroes, and a few wild surprises.

If you’re bringing a car this year, get your registration in early.

Arrowtown never disappoints!

Arrowtown Auto Show Vehicle Entry 2026

Every Kiwi has a story tied to a car - the Hilux that lived on the farm, the WRX that defined a generation, the Commodore that carried half the country to summer holidays.

Nostalgia isn’t just about sentiment, it’s a defining force in New Zealand's Market.

We're seeing vehicles that were once everyday family cars are now entering the modern‑classic zone, with former owners looking to reconnect with their past.

At Waimak Valuations, we’re seeing owners surprised by how strongly these nostalgic models are performing.

If you own one of NZ’s cultural icons, its value may have already shifted.
A professional valuation shows you where it truly sits in today’s market.

Pictured is a classic Kiwi icon I used to own many years ago - I find myself looking for one these days...if they ever appear for sale!