Car enthusiasts and history buffs alike had a rare treat in Nelson today when millions of dollars worth of machinery went under the hammer.
Seventeen classic cars were up for auction, but the show's real star was the most famous warplane of all time – a Spitfire - so today's auction was always bound to attract international interest.
There are fewer than 50 Spitfires left in the world, and a pristine example can fetch more than $5 million.
"It's an amazing machine," says auctioneer Robert Glover. "Very close to being flyable, just needs a bit of work on the engine and propeller and it'll be there, so it's a very rare item indeed."
Hundreds turned out to watch bids on the Auckland plane, one of three in New Zealand.
The warplane eventually went to a Hong Kong businessman for $2.8 million, a new world auction record for a Spitfire.
"This Spitfire he is going to donate to China National Aviation Museum," says Gao Yan Ming.
Steve Subritzky's family had restored the Mk 16 Spitfire over the last 11 years. He says it is a reluctant sale.
"I've been brought up with Spitfire, it's in my blood," says Mr Subritzky. "And it actually scares me, the thought of raising children without the Spitfire."
Car buffs were also well catered for.
"We have cars from 40 years old to 110 years old, which is quite amazing in a sale," says auctioneer Tim Evill.
Among the examples up for sale, a pristine 1959 Ford "Woody" station wagon, with matching caravan of course, and a 1969 Lola racing car.
Not all of the lots screamed speed and glamour, but with the auction raising almost than $4 million, organisers say they will definitely be back for more next year.
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