What is your involvement with the Kaitangata Car Show and Run?
My partner calls me the whip-cracker, but currently I have the title of secretary and general job sorter.
How long have you been involved?
I've been with the show from the start. For six years I've been crazy enough to stay on board - so far.
Where did the idea for the car show come from?
Our president, Malcolm Smithies, lives in Kai and his place overlooks the Kai Rugby Grounds.
He had a bit of a pipe dream to have the field filled with classic cars.
There were a lot that thought it couldn't happen, but there were enough down here as mad as he was, well not quite that mad, that were willing to give it a shot.
Why did you agree to get involved with the show?
I was pretty crook for the first ever meeting and got chucked in the deep end, initially.
Myself and my partner were keen to help get a more positive aspect established for the Kai community and its involvement with classic cars, however, it has become much more than that.
Would you consider yourself a ``car nut'' or passionate about cars?
Cars drive me nuts! We've had some bloody issues over the years but, hey, that's the joys of motoring isn't it?
I can't say I was passionate from a young age. I never even had a licence until I was 20, but I do think it was in the genes to some degree, and it has definitely become a passion.
My dad was, and still is, a Z car man. My grandfather had Holdens and I've always had a nostalgic love for both.
What sort of cars do you own?
At the moment we own a '75 HQ Kingswood, which we purchased two years ago, and a '63 Chevrolet Bel Air, which we purchased this year.
The HQ is a bit rough but she's what we drive while we get the Chev sorted for restoration - there are big plans for it.
The HQ was purchased due to my ``Holden love''.
The '63 is my partner and mine's first ground up restoration together.
The plan is she'll be the show car and the keeper when finished.
Why do you think the Kai Car Show and Run is so popular?
I think being a fundraiser and family event really helps.
We've always stayed focused on the show catering for all ages and spreading the funds that are made - hence why each year we try to get different community groups involved.
So far, 11 different community groups have benefited from funds raised at the show.
Also, the car cruise adds a bit of individuality.
It adds an extra aspect for people to look forward to.
What makes it so special?
So many things!
Firstly, the people - all of our amazing sponsors who we wouldn't have a show without, the car owners that bring their vehicles for us to drool over.
We know the work that goes into these cars.
We also wouldn't have an event without these guys and the public who have been awesome at supporting us and coming to enjoy the day out.
Kaitangata and the community play a huge part.
Kai is a pretty cool place to be able to hold an event like this and the community support has been amazing.
There's not many numbers wise in our committee but they're all really good people.
They put in all the hours voluntarily so we can do something positive for the town and the groups involved.
I think everyone has become really invested in the show and passionate about its success and it makes the event shine.
