For truckies planning a visit to New Zealand, this museum is an interesting one worth adding to the itinerary.
The Ross Bros Museum in Cambridge, New Zealand, is a private collection of vehicles owned by C&R Developments, one of New Zealand’s leading civil earthworks and bulk earthmoving contracting companies.
C&R Developments was formed in 1998 by the four Ross brothers – Mike, Tony, Tim and Simon Ross – who were the previous owners of Baker Construction Ltd.
With over 200 employees, C&R is one of the biggest gigs in town but having their own private onsite café and bar that complements the museum means it’s a huge commitment ensuring the work is still done.
The museum is housed in a very impressive building with the ever-increasing displays outside setting the tone. Just recently a USA Ford ute has been made out of Southern Sourced stone, along with a waterfall from its back deck.
Halfway up the exterior wall is a well-worn Peterbilt smashing through the side, which you can’t miss.
First entering the building, visitors are greeted by an impeccably set out line-up of classic cars and motorbikes. In one corner is a 1950s style diner and bar, complete with neon lighting and juke boxes. The walls are adorned with memorabilia. It all sits on a floor of highly polished black and white tiles. Welcome to a little bit of Americana in Cambridge.
NASCAR vehicles, F5000, Formula Pacific, Indy Cars, Muscle Cars and everything in between is represented, with many long time family links from around the region. Personal relationships with Ken Smith, Paul Radisich and Scott Dixon helps create the pride in what they do.
There is apparently a similar number stored off site waiting to have their turn in the limelight.
Once you do eventually get past all the perfectly restored cars and bikes, special memorabilia and signage, push through to the “off road” section, to find an outstanding display of heavy equipment on display.
From the huge dozers and loaders ready to start another shift to perfectly restored tractors, trucks, utes, unique models and just all round cool stuff catering for all.
Everything on display is repaired, restored and with perfect paint jobs all done in-house.
The latest project here has been to recreate an American Saloon, including friendly ladies, an undertaker, a bank with no money, and a bar filled ready for the next function. Guns line the wall with secret doors to dark places.
Their onsite “working” workshops handle all manner of gear. If it moves they can fix it and with a growing bone yard I doubt they will every run out of work.
If you’re planning a weekend visit, call ahead to make a booking. You can find out more here.