The New Zealand Caterpillar Experience
“It’s the only endorsed experience of its kind in the world. How the Caterpillar CAT® brand became so famous and how the New Zealand Caterpillar Experience came to be established is quite story. Lindsay Willis, the man responsible for the New Zealand Caterpillar Experience, is a passionate kiwi, committed to the preservation of New Zealand heritage.
In 1974 he formed a forestry contracting business that allowed him to work, hunt, and use Caterpillar® bulldozers. His philosophy of “get in and do it” rather than talk about it, emphasises the kiwi “do-it-yourself” tradition. His determination has seen him develop innovative ways to perform forestry tasks. If you work in forestry today, chances are you’re benefiting from one of Lindsay’s ideas.
Lindsay Willis
Lindsay became concerned that New Zealand machinery history was being lost as vintage equipment was scrapped, so he started saving as much as he could. As a spare time project Lindsay set about restoring a Cat 22. Soon his ‘hobby got well out of hand’ and over a 10-15 year period he amassed a large collection of interesting vintage CAT machinery.
To share his love of machinery with the public, Lindsay had a 1500 square metre facility built in Rotorua to house and display the best of his collection. The new attraction was officially endorsed by Caterpillar Incorporated and Goughs NZ.
Official Opening
The New Zealand Caterpillar Experience was officially opened on 19 May 2006 when Lindsay cut the yellow ribbon with a razor sharp axe on a Totara post. Well known TV personality Gary McCormick entertained the large group of invited guests which included the Minister of Tourism, Wally Stone and Brian Hogan the Managing Director of Goughs. This memorable evening featured New Zealand themed cuisine and refreshments and the following day the doors were open for business!
The New Zealand Caterpillar Experience has an amazing collection of classic vintage tractors, diggers, bulldozers and trucks.
There’s nothing else like it in the world.
There are numerous iconic machines on display dating back to the early 1920s, from Caterpillar’s® smallest machine the Cat 22 to the monster D8 earthmover, and including classics like the Cat D2. Apart from a comprehensive range of CAT machines, the collection also includes a 1929 Dodge “C” cab service truck, a 1955 Kew Dodge 125A, a 1942 Ford ¾ Ton truck (Jailbar) and a 1942 Dodge Command.
The New Zealand Caterpillar Experience collection is totally unique. Here are three of our star attractions – extremely rare machines that you probably won’t find anywhere else in the world.
1937 Speeder
Five of these were imported into New Zealand, and theirs is likely to be the only one left in the world. The total number of Speeders built is unknown, but it is believed only five were imported into New Zealand: three face shovels and two draglines. The Speeder Machinery Company was one of many Caterpillar® approved auxiliary equipment manufacturers who supplied Caterpillar® with a vast array of attachments.
The machine featured at the New Zealand Caterpillar Experience was found in Porangahau on the East Coast of the North Island. Over 40 years of sea spray had taken its toll but the machine was completely restored, stripped and rebuilt to working condition.
1928 15 Motor Patrol
This is the only one left in the world. Caterpillar® purchased Russell, the manufacturer of the grader frame, in 1928. Used as a workhorse for the war effort during World War II, many of these trucks were rebuilt after the war and used for logging in New Zealand. Very few have survived to today. This particular truck is Gillies rebuild #76.”
When you’re in Rotorua, why not drop by and experience the result of one man’s enduring passion and love. Find The New Zealand Caterpillar Experience at: 171 Fairy Springs Road l Rotorua l
