Helen Clark's Crown limousine on Trade Me as $1 reserve auction

  • 03/06/2024
Helen Clark's Crown limousine on Trade Me as $1 reserve auction
Photo credit: Trade Me / Christchurch Wholesale Motors

New Zealanders are being offered the opportunity to own a piece of political history as the Crown limousine once used by former Prime Minister Helen Clark is up for sale.

The luxurious Ford LTD BA V8, which served as Clark's official vehicle from 2005 to 2008, has been listed on Trade Me with a starting bid of just $1.

The auction description entices potential buyers to "feel like a Prime Minister" while riding in the Crown limousine.

The car, which packs a 5.4-litre V8 engine, comes with a set of New Zealand flags mounted on the front, although these must be removed for legal road use.

It's being sold by Christchurch Wholesale Motors, which says the vehicle retains its original factory condition, with only hands-free calling added.

Helen Clark's Crown limousine on Trade Me as $1 reserve auction
Photo credit: Trade Me / Christchurch Wholesale Motors

"Condition is 10/10, this vehicle will only appreciate in value and is a real head turner," the seller says on Trade Me.

"This Ford LTD has had only four owners since being owned by the Crown."

Despite its high-profile past, it is not the same car involved in the infamous high-speed journey across the South Island in 2004 when Clark's convoy exceeded speed limits to reach a rugby match on time.

Interest in the auction has been significant, with bids quickly climbing above $17,500 within just two days of the listing.

The auction is set to conclude at 8:30pm on Saturday, June 8.