Mercedes-Benz celebrates 140 years—and new S-Class—with a tour of New Zealand as part of their global journey
To mark 140 years since Mercedes-Benz first redefined mobility, the legendary car marque embarks on an ambitious global tour—140PLACES
Embarking on more than 50,000 kilometres across six continents, the global tour is tracing the marque’s past, present and future, from the invention of the automobile in 1886 to today’s intelligent, electric innovations. For nine days in June, the 140 Places tour traversed the length of New Zealand and back again, taking in the sights and scenery that make the country one of the world’s most iconic road-trip destinations. Along the way, the tour highlighted the communities, collectors and culture that continue to shape the marque, all while previewing the next generation of its flagship S-Class ahead of its local release this year.
After an evening launch event in Auckland (nodding to the arrival of the first two vehicles to arrive in New Zealand in 1898 both being "Benz" models) , the road-trip then began with a showcase of 140 classic, rare and modern customer-owned vehicles at the Warbirds Hanger, Ardmore celebrating the passion of local owners and collectors. This was followed by a stop at the Southwards Car Museum in Paraparaumu to visit the oldest surviving vehicle in Aotearoa: a 1895 Benz Velo, brought to New Zealand in 1900 by Mr. Nicholas Oates of Christchurch.
The 140PLACES tour arrived at Ayrburn Estate for an exclusive encounter with a private Mercedes-Benz collection which was driven in convoy from Dunedin. The whole group then paid a visit to Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell, a world-class motorsport destination set against the picturesque Central Otago high country. The last days saw 140PLACES arrive in Christchurch, before journeying all the way back to Auckland. The 140PLACES tour is now continuing onto India, showcasing the S-Class to the global Mercedes-Benz audience and highlighting its exceptional comfort and performance across continents.
While 140PLACES is a celebration of Mercedes-Benz’ legacy, at its heart is the new S-Class—the ultimate expression of innovation in luxury automobiles. From its next-generation driver assistance systems and immersive digital cockpit to the wellbeing-centred cabin, the new S-Class fuses human-centred design and comfort with advanced safety and intuitive intelligence. Arriving in New Zealand showrooms later this year, the new S-Class marks an exciting new chapter in Mercedes-Benz’ 140-year legacy.
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