Car restoration Christchurch

Where passion meets precision, and dreams meet dedication

We specialise in classic car restoration and repair in Christchurch. Returning classic and vintage British, European, American & Australian cars and motorcycles to their original glory.

Rediscover the thrill...

Own a piece of history, a classic car that turns heads and stirs souls?

• Enhance its value & rarity to be a treasure on wheels
• Elevate a once-forgotten gem to its former glory
• Customise for a unique blend of retro & modern flair.
• Relish the roar or purr of your fine-tuned engine
• Share passion with enthusiasts & celebrate nostalgia.

Auto car restoration of a green Jaguar sports car by Upper Classics Christchurch.

American car restoration and class car restoration of this black & white vintage sports car by Upper Classics

Classic car restoration

Masters in the art of British & European auto restoration and repair.

American car restoration

Expert craftsmen in classic American and Australian auto restoration, repair and modification.

Motorbike restoration

Specialist in motorcycle restoration from any era, especially Japanese motorcycles from the 60s and 70s.

Auto car restoration services

A classic car is prepared for coach building and ash framing at Upper Classics NZ workshop.

Coach Building & Ash Framing

Restore or customise your vehicle body to ensure a perfect fit and finish.

Panel Beating & Fabrication

Repair and fabricate panels, make your car's body flawless.

A classic car body is being spray painted at the Classic Car workshop, Upper Classics NZ.

Car Painting

Make your car shine like new with a professional paint job.

A restored classic car engine gleems by Upper Classics NZ.

Mechanical

From engines to brakes, get your car performing at its best.

Veneering

Add a touch of elegance back to your car’s interior.

A restored vintage car's grill showcases the chrome & brass trim on the grill and headlights at Upper Classics NZ workshop

Trim & Woodwork

Add the final touch of trim to your vehicle.

Why Choose
Upper Classics?

Our mission goes beyond mere restoration – it’s a labour of love - we breathe life, passion, and soul into every vehicle, ensuring that these automotive legends continue to inspire awe for generations to come.

Our team ensures that your classic car not only looks fantastic but runs smoothly as well.
We have a deep understanding of the unique needs and intricacies of classic vehicles, ensuring that your car is handled with the utmost care.

Founded in 2001, Terry was the General Manager, and along with Helen, bought Upper Classics in 2016. The business also specialises in SS Jaguar restorations.

Owners of Upper Classics NZ stand next to a restored SS Jaguar

A classic car engine restored by Upper Classics NZ is showcased.

Classic car repairs

Whether you're looking to get your car ready for a spin after long storage, or in need of a full restoration, we've got you covered.

Talk to us about rust repairs, accident repairs, replacing window rubbers, tweaking engines, checking brakes, recommissioning, modification, certification and pre-purchase inspections.

Professional Restoration Success Stories

Triumphs in restoration & classic cars Christchurch

A restored classic car engine on display at the Upper Classics workshop in Christchurch

The frame of a vintage car waits for restoration at Upper Classics NZ in their Christchurch workshop.

Walnut pannelling being preapred for a resoration project at Upper Classics NZ reapir workshop.

An image of a restored classic car engine that looks like new, at Upper Classics classic car restoration workshop in Christchurch.

A classic car has been just spraypainted black, at Upper Classic Christchurch's workshop.

Inside view of restored car seats in a classic car at the Upper Classics workshop in Christchurch.

A side view of a class car door being prepared for painting at Upper Classics NZ workshop in Christchurch.

A restoration project of a vintage racing car at Upper Classics NZ's Christchurch workshop

A vintage pedal car is in the boot of a vintage car at the Upper Classics NZ car restoration workshop.

Elegant wood veneering done by Upper Classics NZ for a classic car resoration project.

The before image of a headlight repair on a silvr classic car in the Upper Classics NZ classic car workshop.

The sparking restored chassis of a classic car elevated at Upper Classics NZ classic car workshop

At the Upper Classics classic car restoration & repair workshop they spray paint a vintage combi van.

Equipment used in classic car repair at the Upper Classics car repair workshop in Christchurch

Before repair photo of a classic car's crumpled boot at the Upper Classics car repair workshop in Christchurch.

FAQ's

What is your restoration process for classic cars?

Answer: Make a time to view the vehicle/bike, provide an estimate and timeframe, schedule restoration stages

How long does the typical restoration process take?

Answer: From a few hours for a simple repair to 12 months

Do you provide customization options during the restoration process?

Answer: Yes, we personalise each restoration project to the car and owners needs

Can you work with specific car models or makes?

Answer: We work with all models, and are specialists in European, British and American classic cars and 1970s Japanese Motorbikes

Do you provide a detailed breakdown of the restoration expenses?

Answer: Yes, we work with you on your wish list and expenses.

Are there any additional costs that might arise during the restoration process?

Answer: Sometimes, we find additional repairs are required, such as rust etc. We suggest to budget for contingencies.

Do you offer original or aftermarket parts for restoration projects?

Answer: Yes, we work hard to source original parts. We are a specialist in SS Jaguar parts

Do you offer any warranties on the parts used in the restoration?

Answer: Yes we offer warranties

What maintenance recommendations do you provide for a restored classic car?

Answer: Regular servicing to keep your car in tip top condition.

What our clients say

Red 1993 Porsche restored by Upper classics car restoration services.

I’ve had two classic cars restored to various degrees at upper classics. The 1968 Mercedes needed significant rust removal, body and mechanical work, which included structural work and painting. The 1993 Porsche needed a number of complex issues sorted. Both cars had been off the road for many years. I’m very impressed with the talents of the upper classics team, if they couldn’t get a part, they made it!. Terry gave me regular updates, including photographs, and Helen communicated well from the office. I highly recommend Upper Classics to look after your restoration project.

Angus Campbell

Simon Frazers' Kombi van before restoration with Upper Classics, classic car restoration Christchurch

As a long time collector of classic cars, which have all required major restoration work, I have found the work carried out by Upper Classics second to none.Their management structure provides a professional, well organised and well planned restoration process and their staff, who are generally long term employees, are highly skilled and exactly the people you want working on your classic vehicle.Their attention to detail and the ability to have complex panelwork and paintwork carried out within the one business has always resulted a top quality outcome.

Simon Fraser

I decided to have Upper Classics rebuild my old car which was in urgent need of restoration having suffered too many English winters. Upper Classics were very professional in their work and restored the car to a very high standard. They have some of the best engineers, fabricators and painters in the business and I continue to use them for maintenance work as well. I thoroughly recommend Upper Classics to anyone that is considering having work done to their car weather it’s old or new, large or small, they will be able to complete the work to the highest standard.

Grant Burgess

Contact us

Finally, you’re in a position to get your beauty restored and personalised...
Contact us for a free consultation & estimate for your car restoration or repair needs.

2-4 Halls Place, Christchurch
P +64 3 962 7700
F +64 3 338 5082
E info@upperclassics.com

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UpperClassicsNZLimited

Hours of Operation:
Monday to Friday 7.00am to 5.00pm

Our friendly team is only a call or message away, so you’re never left in the dark.