Words: Richard Edwards
Published 9 June 2026
Mercedes-Benz is marking 140 years of the motor car with a global tour that reaches New Zealand this month, and the new S-Class is the centrepiece.
Called “140 Years. 140 Places”, the journey covers more than 50,000km across six continents, linking 140 locations the brand says reflect its heritage, pioneering spirit and global reach.
The anniversary traces back to 1886, when Carl Benz patented what is widely regarded as the world’s first automobile, with Gottlieb Daimler’s motorised carriage following soon after. Mercedes-Benz says it has set engineering benchmarks ever since, through to today’s electric and driver-assistance technology.
The tour started in Europe in January this year, following the world premiere of the new S-Class, and wraps up with a finale in Stuttgart in October. Each stop gives people an early look at the new flagship before it reaches local markets.
Auckland to Queenstown
The New Zealand chapter begins in Auckland in mid-June with a showcase of 140 Mercedes-Benz vehicles owned by local customers, collectors and performance enthusiasts. Any Mercedes-Benz owner can register to take part through the Mercedes-Benz New Zealand website.
From Auckland the journey travels the length of the country, finishing in Queenstown six days later. Mercedes-Benz says each stop highlights not just the brand’s technology but the people, stories and communities behind it.
Following along
The tour can be followed globally at mercedes-benz.com/en/innovation/milestones/140-places, with updates and content from across the six continents.
