There’s something about gleaming high-revving autos, the best live music to get everyone dancing and the scent of great tasting food that always attracts east Aucklanders.
They can’t resist a hot-rod and classic car and rock n’ roll street festival.
This Saturday’s Howick HOP is sure to draw a sea of people again to Howick Village, where all the shops and hospitality venues will be open and the Howick Village Market doing its usual roaring trade.
The Howick HOP has become in a few short years one of the biggest annual one-day events in east Auckland, along with the Howick Santa Parade, the Auckland Brit and Euro Classic Car Show, and the Christmas Fair and Christmas Tree Lighting.
“The interest in our HOP 2024 has been immense and we’re at full capacity for display vehicles,” says the Howick Village Association (HVA).
The predominantly American classic, muscle and hot-rod motors start rolling into position on Picton Street from 8am.
They have to be parked by 9am when Picton Street is closed at both ends, so people can wander in the street and marvel at the dazzling displays.
It’ll reopen to traffic mid-afternoon.
“Coastguard Howick has kindly offered to assist with marshalling and parking,” says the HVA.
There are award categories for the displaying vehicles – Best in Show, and People’s Choice, with those prizes presented at the main stage at 2pm.
One of Aotearoa’s best Elvis Presley tribute artists, Johnny Angel – the Pacific Elvis – is MCing the main performance stage.
“We hope you enjoy the fresh range of entertainment we’re providing,” says the HVA.
“Howick Village offers an amazing and eclectic array of eateries and cafes as well as over 100 owner-operated retail stores.
“Take time to wander the Village and enjoy our hospitality.”
Along with Johnny Angel, main stage performers include Foxtail Rumble Band, City of Sails Rock n’ Roll Dancers, RJ – the Chillin’ Villians, Harlequin Theatre, Sarah Van Zyl, and Move Dance Group.
East FM, east Auckland’s dedicated volunteer-powered community radio station, will also be broadcasting live from its caravan in Picton Street.
In the Howick War Memorial building (Information Centre), Howick College students are displaying artworks they created of the pristine vehicles that paraded at last year’s HOP.
Trade stands for the event’s sponsors will be in view, and the Times team will be there too handing out copies of our latest print edition.
Mad Mike, of Howick Tyres in Wellington Street, says he’ll have a parking spot filled up with tyres and specials.
It’ll be a great day out. Always is. See you there!
