Otago Motor Association Opening Run to Wairongoa, 1909

This photograph relates to the Otago Motor Association’s opening run of the motoring season in 1909. Members gathered in Dunedin before setting out on a run through the main streets of the city and along the Main South Road to Wairongoa, where the cars were arranged for photographs and afternoon refreshments were served. Around 23 motor cars took part in the procession, drawing large crowds of spectators as they travelled through the city and countryside.

The journey highlighted both the growing popularity of motoring and the challenges of early road travel, with one car dropping out due to a broken radiator following a minor collision. Despite this, the cars completed the run successfully, returning to Dunedin later in the day. Events like this marked the beginning of the motor season and reflected the enthusiasm, social nature, and novelty of motoring in Otago during the early 20th century.

Large (4608x3072px) digital image suitable for prints up to approximately A4. 

Image reflects real-life scenes from the period.

Digital PDF download - The image is offered as a historical digital reproduction.

About this image

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