Supercheap Auto Americarna
2026 Timeline
Wednesday
Opunake Beach
25 February 2026
Thursday
Waitara & Inglewood
26 February 2026
Friday
Stratford & Hawera
27 February 2026
Friday Evening
New Plymouth Night Cruise
27 February 2026
Saturday
New Plymouth Americarnival
28 February 2026
Every day, the Supercheap Auto Americarna Vehicles cruise in convoy to various destinations and stop for a display in each town. Please refer to the cruise routes below to find a great spot to view the vehicles as they cruise by or visit each town and enjoy the atmosphere while taking a closer look at hundreds of American Vehicles on display.
Please note that the listed cruise routes are subject to change. We will do our best to keep you informed. However, please keep an eye on this page as well as our communication channels to be regularly updated.
Opunake Beach
Get ready for the official launch of Americarna 2026!
Join us today for the first official cruise of Supercheap Auto Americarna 2026!
The adventure begins at TSB Stadium with a departure at 10:30am. Buckle up as we cruise along the mesmerising Surf Highway 45, making our way to the stunning Ōpunakē Beach. By 11:30 am, we’ll reach Ōpunakē Beach, unveiling an incredible showcase of vehicles.
We invite the public to join us and get up close with the impressive cars. The departure from the beach is at 2:30 pm.
Important to note: A road closure will be implemented on Beach Road, Ōpunakē, exclusively for Americarna vehicles. Public parking will be available at the top of Beach Road and on adjacent side roads. Kindly adhere to instructions provided by our marshals to ensure proper parking in designated areas.
THE AMERICARNIVAL! A UNIQUE CLASSICS FESTIVAL WITH GRAND PARADE AT AMERICARNA 2023
Rest Home Run
Get ready for the heart-warming “Rest Home Run”
– a standout event within Americarna.
Taking place on the morning of Thursday 26 February for registered entrants. Over 200 American vehicles visit 26 rest homes, facilities, and villages in New Plymouth, Bell Block, and Waitara. It is a tradition that’s all about spreading joy, sharing stories and reminiscing.
It brings immense happiness not only to the residents but also to the entrants themselves. It’s a special and intimate part of Americarna week that truly stands out.
THE AMERICARNIVAL! A UNIQUE CLASSICS FESTIVAL WITH GRAND PARADE AT AMERICARNA 2023
Waitara & Inglewood
Welcome to Day 2 of Americarna!
Join us for an extraordinary adventure as we set off at 12:00 noon to discover the vibrant community of Waitara.
From 12:30 pm, the heart of Waitara CBD will come alive with an impressive display of parked vehicles. Immerse yourself in the experience, getting up close with remarkable cars, delicious local cuisine, and embracing the town’s unique cultural charm. Be sure to get along to the tug of war and tire toss compeition at 2:00pm between entrants – think Ford vs Chev, or even club vs club, with prizes lined up for the winning teams!
At 3:30 pm, our journey continues as we make our way towards Inglewood, travelling through the scenic countryside along Waitara Road.
Arrive at Inglewood, where the community host an unforgettable evening of street party. From live entertainment, to delicious food & beverages, craft stalls and fantastic kids’ activities, the Inglewood Street party promises something for everyone.
Please be aware that road closures will be implemented in Waitara and Inglewood and access to certain areas will be restricted. We appreciate your patience and kindly ask you to exercise caution while following marshal instructions.
THE AMERICARNIVAL! A UNIQUE CLASSICS FESTIVAL WITH GRAND PARADE AT AMERICARNA 2023
Stratford & Hawera
Get ready for an exhilarating Day 3 of Americarna!
Join us as we kick off our journey from TSB Stadium at 10:00 am, heading first to the town of Stratford. Arriving at 10:30 am, our impressive vehicles will be showcased on Broadway for public viewing.
At 1:00 pm, our adventure continues as we cruise through the scenic route to South Taranaki, with Hãwera as our next destination.
The route will take us through Kaponga and Manaia, offering a delightful experience for children as they enjoy the passing convoy.
Arriving in Hãwera at 1:45 pm, our vehicles will be on display on High Street for public viewing. Be sure not to miss the thrilling Acceleration Event on Albion Street at 2:30 pm.
At 5:15 pm, our vehicles will depart from Hãwera for Mangorei Road & Friday Night Cruise in the bustling New Plymouth CBD. As entrants leave Hāwera, they will
Please be aware that road closures will be implemented in Stratford and Hãwera. Access to certain areas will be restricted. We appreciate your patience and kindly ask you to exercise caution while following marshal instructions. Your cooperation ensures a smooth and safe experience for everyone. Thank you.
THE AMERICARNIVAL! A UNIQUE CLASSICS FESTIVAL WITH GRAND PARADE AT AMERICARNA 2023
New Plymouth Night Cruise
Get ready for an exhilarating Friday Night Cruise
A signature highlight of Americarna, the Night Cruise lights up the city!
From 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm, cars set off from Mangorei Road and roll into the city centre, creating a dazzling parade of chrome, lights, and roaring engines. This spectacular event always draws big crowds, so pick your spot early and enjoy the magic.
Safety is our top priority. Please follow directions from our marshals, remain on the footpaths, and keep children well clear of the road.
A liquor ban will be in place throughout the CBD. Together, we can keep the event safe and enjoyable for all.
Don’t miss this electrifying event!
THE AMERICARNIVAL! A UNIQUE CLASSICS FESTIVAL WITH GRAND PARADE AT AMERICARNA 2023
New Plymouth AmeriCARnival
Get ready for another unforgettable day at AmeriCARnival 2026, running from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm! This free, family-friendly event is open to everyone and will showcase an incredible range of entrant vehicles. From timeless classics to modern custom builds, every car reflects its owner’s passion and creativity – a true feast for car lovers of all ages.
Puke Ariki Landing will once again be the hub of family fun, packed with free activities like the climbing wall, bouncy castles, candy floss, face painting, and more.
Keep an ear out for the New Plymouth Brass Band, who will bring energy and colour as they march down Devon Street from 11am.
2025 saw an American truck display, and in 2026 we’re turning the spotlight to American tractors and farm machinery! Expect a fantastic line-up including both new and vintage John Deere machines, working contractors’ machinery, and other iconic brands such as Case, International, Oliver, Ford, Caterpillar, and more.
New this year, there will be a timber sports demo and chainsaw wood-chopping competition with Shane Jordan and his brother Jack Jordan, who has just won a world championship. Featuring four different athletes and shows on Egmont St at 10:30am, 11:00am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:00pm and 1:30pm.
The Airforce Flyover display is back for 2026 – flying over at 12pm with the best view from the wind wand.
Wayne Currie will be bringing his Nitro Funny Car to the top end of Devon Street, performing thrilling start-ups in his supercharged, nitromethane-fuelled drag racing beast!
The Taranaki Radio Control Car Club will set up their thrilling remote-control car course – always a crowd favourite and guaranteed to deliver plenty of action! This year, there’s an exciting new twist. Kids who have their own remote-control cars, but aren’t part of the club, will get the chance to join in the fun and race their cars on the course. Sessions will run at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm, so bring along your car and get ready to hit the track!
The CBD will be buzzing with live music, food, stalls, and plenty of Americarna spirit. Whether you’re here for the cars, the entertainment, or simply the atmosphere, AmeriCARnival is a celebration of community, culture, and fun.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page for the latest schedule updates. We can’t wait to see you there!
THE AMERICARNIVAL! A UNIQUE CLASSICS FESTIVAL WITH GRAND PARADE AT AMERICARNA 2023
Pukeiti Gardens
New for Americarna 2026 – A visit to Pukeiti
We’re excited to introduce a brand-new event to the Americarna 2026 programme – a visit to the spectacular Pukeiti Gardens on Wednesday 25 February.
Nestled between Mount Taranaki and the Kaitake Ranges, Pukeiti is one of the world’s largest and most diverse gardens, home to an extraordinary collection of rhododendrons and exotic plants, surrounded by lush native rainforest. Whether you’re a garden lover or simply curious to explore a new part of Taranaki, this exclusive event offers an oppurtunity to experience something special.
You’ll get to enjoy the natural beauty of Pukeiti at your own pace, soak in the peaceful setting and enjoy a delicious meal at the Rainforest Eatery.
There are two group options for this event, with a limit of 50 vehicles per group.
- *** SORRY – GROUP ONE OPTION IS NOW FULL ** Group 1 – Enjoy morning tea (scone and coffee deal for $11) before heading on to Ōpunake
- Group 2 – A Tex-Mex buffet lunch at the Eatery for $30 per person. This group will not continue onto Ōpunake.
Spots are limited and will be allocated on a first-in, first-served basis.
** Please note that Group 1 will arrive slightly late to the Ōpunake event and Group 2 will not be going to Ōpunake at all.
For more information about Pukeiti and what it has to offer, click here.
Any questions? Contact us at info@americarna.com or call 06 759 0027.
