70 members living in New Zealand and Australia
In 2000, as the new millennium dawned over the seaside village of Maketū five childhood mates with a passion for motorbikes decided to start a club.
“We loved Harley Davidsons”, Bill Nicholas (aka Uncle), a club founder remembers, “We were just friends who wanted to ride and have our own place to socialise.”
Seventeen years down the track, the Maketū Gentleman’s Club has more than 70 members living in New Zealand and Australia. “We are family. Everyone is different but everyone is the same”, concludes Bill.
Years of working-bees pave the way
The similarities to family are obvious when you visit the MGC clubhouse – a renovated half-round shed perched on a hill on the outskirts of Maketū.
First, there’s the orange flames – the club’s emblem – it adorns t-shirts, flags, ornaments and of course, motorbikes. A source of pride that’s not a patch – no gang patches are allowed at this club.
Secondly, there’s the evidence of teamwork – from the customised wrought iron gate at the beginning of the driveway, to the fully kitted out kitchen and bar, to the performance stage made from a converted shipping container and outside to the snazzy women’s loos and landscaping that turned empty paddocks into an impressive complex of buildings.
Maketū’s own community function centre
“There are many different tradesmen and business owners in the club and everyone chips in to help where and when they can”, Bill explains. “The clubhouse is used for all sorts of community events, weddings, birthday parties and whānau gatherings,” says Bill, “MGCs a social club that prides itself on hospitality.”
From high-tide to hill-top
Looking back, Bill remembers the club’s first ‘Poker run’ at Newdicks, a private beach on the other side of town. Picture, a marquee just above the high-tide mark, generator power and long drop loos.
“It was pretty basic but about 300 bikes came from all around the country. People enjoyed themselves and once the word spread, that was it.”
Maketū Gentleman’s Club has kept growing from there and as more and more riders raise their hands hoping to join the club, the growth will continue.
By Bill Nicholas, Maketū Gentleman’s Club (MGC)
I write for this magazine to share our passion for motorcycling.
Other Bay Online articles about Maketū Gentleman’s Club (MGC)
- Every which way but lost – Maketū Gentleman’s Club – Poker Run 2017 (with videos)
- Te Maire Martin rides into town
- MGC Community Connections
