Holden Onto Summer

25 Nov

Many readers may note a particularly Kiwi, or even trans-Tasman feel to our December catalogue, especially with the inclusion of two models woven into the fabric of New Zealand motoring history. Given the time of year, it is no surprise that there should be enthusiasm for such cars in the collectable market, and indeed, the two are linked together inexorably.

*Holdens dominated the summer scene in a country where nothing was more integral to the family holiday than the car. 1968 Anniversary Day, Waihi Beach.*
*Credit: Waihi Beach Surf Life Saving Club.*

This time of year is unique to the nation both in feeling and function. The intangible charm that keeps locals here and brings expats back can in part be explained by one thing; a Kiwi Christmas cannot be replicated anywhere else. When one considers what makes a New Zealand summer so singular, it is hard to omit one of the most important facets. This, of course, is the family car.

Holden holds a special place in the hearts of many New Zealanders, particularly those who grew up in the 1960s and 1970s. Its significance transcends mere automotive history and embodies the nostalgia of a generation. A generation that fondly remembers not just the escapades of the manufacturer in racing, but even more enthusiastically the family road trips, outdoor adventures, and sense of freedom that came with journeys in the family Holden.

No car lent itself to these nostalgia-inducing trips better than the station wagon. During the 60s and 70s Holden wagons became a popular choice for New Zealand families thanks to their spacious interior and practical design. Bestowed with generous seating capacity and ample cargo space they were ideal for family outings, whether it was heading to the beach, going camping in the bush, or taking long drives across the picturesque New Zealand countryside. For many, the HG and HQ Wagons, produced from 1971 to 1974, are particularly iconic and represent more than many other cars a symbol of family togetherness, adventure, and the quintessential Kiwi lifestyle.

View December 2024 Auction Catalogue

The allure of these ultimate summer cars was particularly pronounced in a time when New Zealanders began to embrace the concept of leisure travel. The growth of caravan parks and camping grounds during this period meant that families sought vehicles capable of accommodating their outdoor gear and ensuring comfortable travel. Wagons made during this era enjoyed the ability to transport families and their belongings better than many other offerings of the time, making them a staple on the roads. They are undoubtedly significant role-players in the collective memory of a generation. Indeed, just the sight of a baby blue or canary yellow station wagon can evoke the joys of an entire childhood for many Kiwis. If you don’t believe us, ask your Dad.

These cars were integral to a sense of exploration, and the ability to take spontaneous trips contributed to a laid-back lifestyle that many people still romanticise today in an increasingly binary world. The memories of singing along to music on long drives, stopping at roadside cafes, and enjoying picnics at scenic spots are often intertwined with the experiences of riding in a Holden Wagon.

Holdens, and we must admit Fords, also became part of the social fabric of the era, appearing in family photographs and holiday albums that continue to evoke a sense of nostalgia for those who grew up during this time. To this day many people write articles, post in forums and comment on posts online, reminiscing on their lives through the Holdens that have punctuated their formative years.

Holdens of this era have seen a pronounced resurgence in interest, particularly among car enthusiasts and collectors. For those who grew up back then, owning or restoring an HT, HG or HQ has become a way to reconnect with their past and share those cherished memories with the next generation. Car shows and vintage vehicle gatherings often feature the Monaros, Belmonts and Broughams, but in many ways Kingswood examples evoke the greatest emotion.

The way in which these cars are now cherished is reflected in the market, where Holdens of this ilk and era achieve excellent prices at auction with regularity. One should be careful not to understate the cultural significance they have. When the influence they have had on the formative years of a generation is examined, the enthusiasm collectors still harbour for them in 2024 is easily understood.