One of the original motor hearses of Dunedin is becoming a popular choice for families farewelling a loved one.
It took Hope and Sons, who bought the 1926 Chrysler 60 in 1979, nine years to restore it back to its original condition.
It was the first vintage hearse available for funeral use in Otago, and provided a ''point of difference'' for families farewelling their loved ones, funeral director John Finlayson said.
''The car fits a niche market. The vintage is used once a week or so. People who were born in those years - it can be significant to them or car enthusiasts. Some people don't like modern vehicles.''
It was restored as part of a centenary project by the firm in 1987.
The previous owner was in the process of beginning to restore the vehicle. He had the basic framework but no body work. The vintage vehicle was trucked to Dunedin.
Vintage Car Restorations in Ashburton was commissioned to restore it. The upholstery in the cab was completed by an Ashburton man. Kevin Carter finished off the electrical work, Clements and Stephens finished off the body work, then it was delivered to Pat Moore, the auto painter, who completed the black paintwork.
The floor and lining inside the back and the oak deck was installed in Mosgiel. The rollers and fittings came from the Lindsay family, who used to be the funeral directors in Queenstown.
It was first registered in Dunedin on May 25, 1927, and after restoration, it was again registered 60 years later on June 11, 1987.
In 2008, a car of the same make and model from Tapanui was used for parts. The motor was replaced and repaired along with the brakes and steering in 2009. A 1961 Dodge Seneca was the firm's main hearse in Dunedin between 1961 and 1973.
It was one of six that were imported to New Zealand from Canada, where they had been converted to right-hand drive.
The Dodge was sold in 1973 when Valiant Regal station wagons were used as hearses.
In 2009, an identical vehicle, from Auckland, was added to the fleet.
The Dodge has also been restored to near its original condition.
- Samantha McPherson
