Lynda’s Sunliner Story

Article: Rob Maetzig

For many, Americarna is about more than just cars – it’s about the people, the passion and the community that comes together when it matters most. Few stories show this better than that of Lynda Matthews and her beloved 1962 Ford Sunliner convertible.

Lynda, a regular Americarna entrant, has long been known for her eye-catching red Sunliner with its cream top – an iconic piece of motoring history that always turns heads at our event. She purchased the car in 2016 and has brought it along to every Americarna event since then, becoming a familiar and much-loved part of the Americarna family.

But in 2025, her pride and joy was suddenly taken from her. Despite being locked away in a secure, alarmed shed in New Plymouth, the car was stolen overnight.

The moment Lynda reached out to us, the Americarna community swung into action. A Facebook post and newsletter were sent out, and within minutes, the power of our car community became clear. Dozens of Taranaki locals got in touch to report sightings of the Sunliner – it felt like everyone was working together to bring it home.

Thanks to these reports, and some swift action from the police, the car was eventually chased down, its tyres spiked, and returned to Lynda. Unfortunately, it suffered extensive damage and while not the perfect ending, the response reminded us all of just how special this community is.

The Sunliner is now in the capable hands of the Americarna Workshop, where it is being carefully restored with the hope of making its triumphant return for Americarna 2026.