Armistice Day Military Display at Classics Museum

On Saturday, 8 November 2025, the Classics Museum will be hosting a brand new Armistice at the Museum event. This is a special day dedicated to remembering those who served, and to celebrating New Zealand’s military history.

Running from 10am to 4pm, this free community event features an impressive display of military vehicles, memorabilia, and live demonstrations, alongside a half-price entry offer for visitors wanting to explore the museum’s full collection. It’s a meaningful and educational experience for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the machines and stories that shaped our past.

Commemorating Armistice Day

Armistice Day marks the signing of the agreement that ended World War I on November 11, 1918. Each year, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served in the armed forces, both then and since.

At the Classics Museum, we’re proud to play a small part in preserving and sharing these stories. Through our Armistice at the Museum event, we aim to connect people of all ages with the technology, vehicles, and personal accounts that form a vital part of New Zealand’s heritage.

What You’ll See

The Museum’s parking lot will be filled with an impressive line-up of authentic military vehicles, from tanks and trucks to jeeps, all carefully maintained by local collectors and enthusiasts. Many of these vehicles have their own stories to tell, representing different eras of service and engineering innovation.

This year’s display will also feature an Allison V12 aircraft engine, giving visitors a rare look at one of the powerful engines that helped drive wartime aviation. For those interested in the mechanical side of history, it’s an opportunity to see the craftsmanship and technology that powered some of the world’s most remarkable machines.

You can also browse a militaria trade show and displays of historical memorabilia, offering insight into New Zealand’s role in global conflicts and the experiences of those who served. There will also be live engine runs throughout the day, giving visitors a chance to hear and feel the power of these incredible machines in motion.

Half-Price Museum Entry

To make the most of your visit, attendees of the Armistice event can enjoy half-price entry to the Classics Museum on the day. Inside the museum, you’ll find over 60 classic vehicles, from vintage European models to mid-century American icons, alongside a large collection of motoring and transport memorabilia.

The combination of the outdoor military displays and the museum’s collection makes this a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a history buff, a car enthusiast, or simply looking for something unique to do in Hamilton, this event offers a fascinating and affordable way to spend the day.

Commemorate with us and explore decades of history for half the price!

A Family-Friendly Day Out

The Armistice at the Museum event is designed to be educational and engaging for families. Children and adults alike can learn about the vehicles and their history in an accessible, hands-on way.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase on site throughout the day, and the Jukebox Diner will be open for anyone wanting to enjoy a sit-down meal in the museum’s classic 1950s-style café setting. With free entry to the event and discounted museum admission, it’s a great option for a relaxed, meaningful family outing.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, 8 November 2025

Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Location: Classics Museum, 11 Railside Place, Hamilton

Admission: Free event

Museum Entry: Half-price for attendees

Parking is available on site, and the museum is just off SH1, making it an easy and accessible destination for visitors across the Waikato.

Join Us to Honour, Learn, and Explore

The Armistice at the Museum event is a chance to reflect on New Zealand’s history, experience the engineering behind military vehicles, and connect with a community of likeminded people.

Whether you come to learn, to see the displays, or simply to spend a meaningful day out, we invite you to join us in commemorating those who served, and to explore the stories and machines that continue to inspire generations.

Commemorate with us and explore decades of history for half the price! Plan Your Visit