Discover the Classic Boat Museum in St Arnaud
Situated in St Arnaud on Beechnest Drive, the Classic Boat Museum is a wonderful surprise for boaties. This museum, established by Pete Rainey around 20 years ago, showcases an impressive collection of approximately 30 classic boats. The focus is primarily on the evolution of powerboats over the decades.
High-Performance Racing Boats
The museum's highlight is its collection of high-performance racing boats. If you're interested in beautifully designed boats built for speed, this is a must-visit. Notable boats include the world record-holding BelAir 111 and the iconic Flak Too, which features a Rolls-Royce Aero engine. Most boats are in pristine condition, though a few await restoration.
Even if you're not familiar with boats, the museum provides informative panels to enhance your understanding.
Easter Boat Show Extravaganza
During Easter, the museum hosts the Antique and Classic Boat Show, where you can see some of these boats, along with others from across the country, in action. Organised by Pete Rainey and Glenn Common, who also manage the museum, the event features morning land-based boat displays and afternoon races on Lake Rotoiti.
Accessing the Classic Boat Museum
The museum is located near State Highway 6 through St Arnaud, with a sign directing you to Beechnest Drive. Follow Beechnest for 100 metres, then turn left into a large gravel parking area. The museum is housed in a warehouse on the far side, marked by a single door entrance with a sign. There is a modest admission fee.
How to Get There
From Blenheim, follow State Highway 63 along the Wairau Valley southwest to St Arnaud. The drive is 80 minutes and 103 km. From Nelson, the drive is 70 minutes and 81 km, via State Highway 6, to Wai-iti Valley Road, Stock Road, Kerr Hill Road, and Tophouse Road, then to SH6.
Nearby, you can visit Kerr Bay, walk the Honeydew Walk and the Brunner Peninsula Nature Walk, visit West Bay and check out the Pourangahau / Mount Robert Viewpoint.
