“My new favourite monthly hangout; Caffeine and Gasoline based out of Hampton Downs Raceway!”
Interestingly, I don’t tend to enjoy car shows, or ‘meets’ as much as I enjoy being at the race track. I’m not sure what it is, but there’s something about seeing functional tin doing battle that excites me that little bit more.
However, in recent times, I have warmed to a local event by the name of Caffeine and Gasoline based at Hampton Downs Raceway, New Zealand.
Held once a month, Caffeine and Gasoline started out of a need for a diverse car meet. North of Auckland’s CBD at Smales Farm, Caffeine and Classics is held every month too, however, became diluted with modern tin, much to the distaste of the organisers and for fair reason.
The answer, was a monthly meeting elsewhere. Hampton Downs was chosen for its wide range of attractions, which would turn this monthly car meet into so much more. Feel like going on the skid pan? Sure! Feel like cruising around the race track with your mates? Go right ahead!
What I didn’t anticipate about this event, though, was the diversity. Never before have I seen such a wide range of vehicles in one place. And, a diverse range of individuals.
From young to old, Caffeine and Gasoline was jam-packed with automotive enthusiasts from all walks. Midday, Mad Mike Whiddett even drove through the venue, as his workshop is based here at Hampton Downs Raceway.
The first car that caught my eye was a beautiful bright orange late-model Dodge Viper. These machines are incredible up close, but I bet they’re even more exciting to drive.
Through the rest of the paddock, there was Skyline GT-Rs, Evos, Subaru WRXs, Ford Mustangs, Holden Commodores, Mini Coopers and so much more.
For some reason, at this event in particular, I really appreciated the older American muscle in attendance. Impeccably kept, examples like the above are a sight to see. Credit to the owners, I know first hand how long it takes to get vehicles looking like this. Anyway, enough from me. I will let the album below do the talking for the rest! I am already looking forward to the next one. I honestly think this is one of the best events in the New Zealand car scene at this time.
