Show & Shine: Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Boats at Classics Museum

The Classics Museum is proud to once again host the Yamaha Rollo’s Marine Bridge to Bridge Show & Shine on Friday, 7 November 2025, from 4–7pm. This fun evening brings together two Kiwi favourites - classic cars and high-performance water ski race boats - for a community event that marks the start of an exciting weekend on the Waikato River.

Held in partnership with the iconic Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic, the Show & Shine gives visitors the chance to see these incredible boats up close before they take to the water for a full weekend of racing. It’s a great opportunity to meet the teams, learn more about the boats, and enjoy the atmosphere among fellow enthusiasts.

A Closer Look at the Bridge to Bridge Boats

The Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic is one of New Zealand’s most recognised river races, attracting competitors from across the country. The boats you’ll see at the Show & Shine are purpose-built for speed, capable of reaching around 100 miles per hour as they race the Waikato River between Cambridge and Taupiri.

At the Show & Shine, these boats are on display in the museum parking lot, allowing visitors to see the engineering, design, and detail that go into making them race-ready. It’s a fascinating look at the blend of power and precision that defines this sport.

For those who have never seen a race boat like this, Show & Shine offers a rare chance to appreciate them in a close up setting before the action begins on the river the next day.

Classic Cars and Museum Exhibits

Alongside the Bridge to Bridge boats, the Classics Museum will be open 4pm - 7pm for visitors to enjoy its collection of over 60 classic cars, motorbikes, and memorabilia. Come along and get ½ price entry for the duration of the Show & Shine event. From timeless European models to American muscle and New Zealand favourites, there’s plenty to explore inside.

The combination of modern performance boats and classic motoring history makes this event a celebration of Kiwi engineering, innovation, and passion for all things mechanical. It’s a great outing for families, car lovers, and anyone with an interest in how design and technology have evolved over the years.

Enjoy Dinner at the Jukebox Diner

While you’re here, make sure to stop by the Jukebox Diner, located inside the museum. The diner serves classic American-style comfort food in a relaxed, retro setting that’s popular with both locals and visitors.

It’s the perfect spot to sit down after exploring the displays. Whether you’re after a burger and fries, a milkshake, or something sweet to finish the evening. Many guests like to make a night of it by arriving early for the Show & Shine and staying on for dinner.

View the Jukebox Diner Menu

Event Details

Date: Friday, 7 November 2025

Time: 4:00pm – 7:00pm

Location: Classics Museum, 11 Railside Place, Hamilton

Admission: Free, family-friendly event

There’s plenty of parking available, and the museum is conveniently located just off SH1, making it easy to find whether you’re local or visiting from out of town.

A Weekend of Horsepower and Heritage

The Show & Shine is part of a busy weekend of events in Hamilton. On Saturday, 8 November, the Armistice at the Museum event will take place, featuring military vehicles, memorabilia, and heritage displays that commemorate New Zealand’s wartime history.

Between the Bridge to Bridge races on the river and the museum’s full calendar of activities, it’s a great weekend to experience Hamilton’s strong community spirit and love of classic machinery.

Plan Your Visit

We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to the Bridge to Bridge Show & Shine this November. It’s a relaxed and informative evening that showcases some of the region’s finest craftsmanship - both on land and on water.

Bring the family, enjoy the displays, and take some time to explore the museum and diner while you’re here.

Come for the boats, stay for the classics.  Plan Your Visit