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A Celebration of Classic American Cars Since 2007

Taranaki Vehicle Events Trust

Taranaki Vehicle Events Trust (TVET)

 

Americarna brings positive benefits to Taranaki – in addition to showcasing our province, the event brings economic, wellbeing, social and recreational outcomes that benefit our communities.  The event has grown significantly since its inception in 2007 and in 2014 the Taranaki Vehicle Events Trust (TVET) was formed to support the event.

The primary role of TVET is to secure funding, through grants and sponsorship, so that all the community activities and components of Americarna are free to the public.  The Trust also supports the planning of the event with a strong focus on ensuring that the Americarna “rumble” will continue for many years to come.

TVET works closely with council and community representatives throughout Taranaki to bring a family-friendly, inclusive and vibrant event that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to organise vehicle events that contribute to the well-being of the Taranaki Community.

We aim to showcase the beauty and uniqueness of Taranaki, not only within New Zealand but also on an international scale.

Our goal is to successfully host an annual event in Taranaki while actively giving back to the community by providing a completely free public event for everyone to enjoy.

TVET TRUstees

CHAIR

Tony Ewens

CHAIR

Tony was appointed as a Trustee in 2020. He is the Central Regional Manager for Citycare Water, employing over 70 staff locally that contribute to providing service to the community throughout Taranaki.

“I have a passion for American Muscle and have been involved in many sporting associations, both as competitor and in governance, with Jet boating, Muscle cars, Drag Racing and Stratford Park.”

 Always a regular attendee of Americarna, “Being privileged to chair the trust, I have a desire to see Americarna continue to grow as an Iconic event for everyone in our community to benefit from and enjoy.”

DEPUTY CHAIR

Mark Robson

DEPUTY CHAIR

Mark joined the TVET board in 2019, driven by his admiration of the impact of JR and Americarna on the Taranaki community.

With over 38 years of successful ownership of a local business, Mark is a passionate and experienced businessman.

He not only owns an American vehicle but actively participates in the thriving American car scene in Taranaki. Mark’s unwavering commitment to the community, combined with his sharp business skills, makes him a valuable asset to the board.

TRUSTEE

Marilyn Davies

TRUSTEE

Marilyn was appointed as a Trustee in 2014. Marilyn is a Fellow Chartered Accountant.  

Marilyn has a passion for helping make our community vibrant and creative with provision for free community participation. Americarna achieves this and more every year.

TRUSTEE

Yvette Preston

TRUSTEE

Yvette was appointed as a trustee in 2021 and for the last five years has been running the Americarna registration centre. 

“It is very much a family-friendly event and we are starting to see new traditions with vehicles being passed through families for the next generation to cruise and enjoy our beautiful province.  I think the event is very special, it offers something for everyone – from the entrants who can showcase their wonderful vehicles to the free family activities on offer throughout the region.  We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who, along with our funders and sponsors, support Americarna and TVET to stage a vibrant and exciting event”.     

She has a background in the Public Service and is currently a company director. 

TRUSTEE

Toni Fabish-Benton

TRUSTEE

Toni has been appointed a TVET Trustee in 2023 and has a close and long standing affinity to Americarna. 

As a prior Event Coordinator of the event, Toni was involved from 2008 – 2017. 

Toni is a born & bred car girl and has continued to be involved in the American car scene through her involvement in several car clubs in the region. 

“I am very passionate about what Americarna brings to the Taranaki community and the people who attend.  They hold a special place in my heart.  I love the vibrancy and energy that is created as the cars and entrants cruise around the province and park up in the towns. 
I am excited about coming back and being a part of this wonderful event as a Trustee of TVET. 

Bring on the fun!”.   

TRUSTEE

Ricky Malcolm

TRUSTEE

Ricky was appointed in 2023 after working closely with Americarna producing the annual Saturday night highlights video & official event photography over the years.

He is involved in a number of governance boards in Taranaki and has a keen eye for all things marketing through his company, Manic Agency.

“To me, Americarna is more than cars. It brings people together from all walks of life in the most unique way. The stories you hear and the passion on display is simply incredible”.