About 60 cars and 20 motorbikes lined a reserve at Queens Park to draw the crowds and bring attention to alarming suicide statistics and mental health issues, Ms Thomason said.
All money raised by entrants would be donated to the Loss and Grief Centre.
"When I first said this year’s car show is for suicide and mental health, everyone was messaging me with their own personal stories; it was heartbreaking. New Zealand has some of the worst suicide stats in the world, so it’s time to start talking about it," she said.
Where to get help
Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Samaritans: 0800 726 666
Alcohol Drug Helpline: 0800 787 797
General mental health inquiries: 0800 44 33 66
The Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757
