Vehicles in Movies: From Screen to Showcase at Wanaka's Museum
The magic of cinema often lies not just in the actors or the storyline but in the finer details that bring a scene to life. Among these are the iconic vehicles that transport us into the film's world. At the National Transport and Toy Museum in Wanaka, these film stars are preserved and showcased for all to admire, offering visitors a chance to relive some of their favourite movie moments.
The Role of Vehicles in Movies
Vehicles in movies do more than just get the characters from point A to point B. They become symbols, characters in their own right, and sometimes, they steal the show, like the famous cars such as the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 from Goldfinger. Classic car movies often highlight these iconic vehicles, showcasing their timeless appeal and significance in film history. Think of the DeLorean in Back to the Future or the Batmobile in the Batman series. These machines are often as memorable as the protagonists themselves.
In New Zealand, the NTT Museum Wanaka has become a treasure trove for film enthusiasts, especially those fascinated by vintage vehicles. The museum houses a remarkable collection of vehicles used in a variety of films and television shows, each with its own story to tell.
The Star-Studded Collection of Famous Movie Cars
The museum’s collection is diverse, ranging from classic cars to heavy-duty trucks, all of which have graced the silver screen as famous movie cars. These iconic cars have left lasting impressions on audiences and have become synonymous with the characters who drive them. Here’s a look at some of the standout pieces:
Ford Crown Victoria Sheriff Cars from Pete’s Dragon (2016): These vehicles, imported specifically for the film, have been restored to reflect their on-screen appearance, complete with the fictional town’s insignia. Some show the wear and tear from action scenes, adding to their authenticity.
International Loadstar 1800 Bus from Sweet Tooth (2020): This bus, which has been repainted to its original American school bus yellow, was a significant part of the Netflix series. It’s now a fan favourite at the museum.
1970 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow featured in an Esquire editorial shoot at Wanaka Airport. This elegant vehicle exudes luxury and has been impeccably maintained.
1983 Toyota Celica 2.8 from the 1984 Tears Movie: A piece of 80s nostalgia, this car represents the era’s unique automotive design and has appeared in a film that brought the picturesque landscape of Wanaka to the big screen.
These vehicles are more than just props; they are pieces of cinematic history. Seeing them up close allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into each film.
From Behind the Camera to the Museum Floor
The journey of these vehicles from the set to the museum is fascinating. In order to fit the specific requirements of a scene, film production teams initially sourced and modified many of the cars. After filming wrapped, rather than returning to obscurity, these vehicles found a new home at the NTT Museum.
Take, for example, the International Loadstar 1800 bus from Pete’s Dragon (2016). This bus, which Disney originally imported, played a significant part in the movie by transporting characters through the made-up town of Millhaven. Now, it’s preserved at the museum, complete with all the wear and tear from its time on set.
Similarly, the 1982 & 1985 Ford Utes also used in Pete’s Dragon have been restored to their film condition, bearing the scars of intense action scenes. The vehicles offer a tangible connection to the movie, allowing visitors to step into the world of filmmaking.
A Comprehensive List of Film Vehicles
The museum’s collection doesn’t stop with just a few highlights. There are numerous other vehicles on display, each with its own cinematic history. Here’s a comprehensive list of other notable vehicles from movies and TV shows that you can find at the NTT Museum. Among these are some of the most famous movie cars that have become cultural symbols in their respective stories:
1990 Chevrolet Sierra Ambulance – Pete’s Dragon (2016), 2024 Tears Movie
1980 Ford Cortina – 2024 Tears Movie
1981 Porsche 924 – 2024 Tears Movie
1984 Pontiac Fiero – 2024 Tears Movie
1984 Nissan 300ZX – 2024 Tears Movie
Ski-doo – Sweet Tooth (2020)
Raidtrac 1800 Snow Cat – Sweet Tooth (2020)
International Loadstar 1800 Bus - Sweet Tooth (2020)
Jeep Cherokee (x2) – Pete’s Dragon (2016)
Jack’s 1981 Chevrolet Citation – Pete’s Dragon (2016)
1973 Volkswagen 1303 – Pete’s Dragon (2016)
1978 Chrysler Cordoba 420 – Pete’s Dragon (2016)
1950s Massey Ferguson TEA Tractor – Flying South Documentary (2014)
International Truck – Flying South Documentary (2014)
1955 Hamilton JetBoat – Flying South Documentary (2014)
1950s Ferguson TEA – Hillary (2015)
1942 Army Indian Motorbike – Hillary (2015)
Slead – Hillary (2015)
Haggland – Hillary (2015)
1952 AJS 500 Model 18 Motorbike – Louis Vuitton Commercial
1950s Massey Ferguson TEA Tractor – Flying South Documentary (2014)
Sky Rocket (Rocket Man) – Smirnoff Commercial (2013)
Hansom Cab – Mr Pip (2013)
Antonov An-2 Colt – Ice Commercial (2009)
1943 Studebaker 6x6 – The Waste Lands (2009)
Willy’s Jeep – The Waste Lands (2009), The World’s Fastest Indian (2005), Water Horse (2007)
1954 Ford Thames Pickup – Bride Flight (2008)
1946 Fordson Bus – Bride Flight (2008)
1954 Leyland Comet Bus – Bride Flight (2008)
1939 D2 International – Chocolate Commercial (2004)
1923 Leyland – Chocolate Commercial (2004)
1943 Studebaker 6x6 – Chocolate Commercial (2004)
1941 wiles Mobil Cooker – Chocolate Commercial (2004)
1953 Vauxhall EIP – The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)
1954 Vauxhall EIP – The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)
1955 Holden FJ – The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)
1954 Austin A70 Hereford – The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)
1952 Standard Vanguard – The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)
1953 Morris Oxford – The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)
1935 Austin 10 – Perfect Creatures (2004)
1938 Vauxhall DX – Perfect Creatures (2004)
1947 Vauxhall J – Perfect Creatures (2004)
1953 Cyclemaster Bicycle – Perfect Creatures (2004)
Dot Delivery Motorcycle – Perfect Creatures (2004)
Cycle wheelbed – Perfect Creatures (2004)
1942 Bofor Gun – X Team Movie
37mm Chinese Anti-aircraft Gun – X Team Movie
1941 Bedford Water Truck – X Team Movie
Oerlikon Gun – X Team Movie
1942 Bedford Cargo Truck – X Team Movie
Each of these vehicles has been carefully preserved and restored, allowing visitors to appreciate their role in cinematic history. Some show the wear and tear from action-packed scenes, while others have been meticulously maintained to look as they did on the day of filming. These vehicles are a testament to the enduring appeal of the classic car movie genre, showcasing the deep connection between characters and their iconic rides.
The Vehicles’ Legacy in Classic Car Movies
For many visitors, seeing these vehicles up close stirs a sense of nostalgia. The Ford Crown Victoria Sheriff Cars and Jeep Cherokee Forest Ranger SUVs from Pete’s Dragon transport fans back to the film’s magical world, while the Rolls Royce Silver Shadow offers a glimpse into the glamorous world of high fashion.
But the vehicles’ appeal isn’t just for movie buffs. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the craftsmanship and design of these vintage models. The museum provides detailed information about each vehicle’s history, both in and out of the movies, adding depth to the experience.
The Importance of Preservation of Iconic Cars
Preserving these vehicles is no small feat. The museum staff takes great care to maintain the authenticity of each piece, from the paint job to the smallest decals. This attention to detail ensures that each vehicle remains as close to its on-screen appearance as possible.
For instance, the Willy’s Jeep from The World’s Fastest Indian (2005) has been meticulously restored to its condition during the film’s production. The museum also houses a 1954 Ford Thames Pickup used in Bride Flight (2008), which has been kept in pristine condition to reflect its appearance in the movie.
A Visit to Remember
A visit to the NTT Museum Wanaka isn’t just about seeing a collection of old cars. It’s about stepping into the world of cinema and experiencing the magic that goes into making a movie. The vehicles on display are more than just machines; they are storytellers, each with a unique role in bringing a film to life.
Whether you’re a film fanatic, a car enthusiast, or just looking for a unique day out, the museum offers something for everyone. The vehicles on display provide a fascinating insight into the world of filmmaking and the intricate details that go into creating a movie. Plan your visit and book your schedule today!
