A trans-continental journey celebrating 140 years of innovation reaches New Zealand Auckland – Mercedes-Benz is marking 140 years of automotive innovation with an extraordinary global journey: “140 Years. 140 Places.” The tour will cover more than 50,000 kilometres across six continents, connecting 140 iconic locations that reflect the brand’s pioneering spirit, heritage, and global presence.
The celebration traces its origins back to 1886, when Carl Benz patented the world’s first automobile, followed shortly by Gottlieb Daimler’s motorised carriage. Since then, Mercedes-Benz has continuously set benchmarks in automotive engineering – from the invention of the automobile to today’s intelligent, safe, and electric vehicles.
The 140 Places journey began in Europe in January 2026 following the World Premiere of the all-new S-Class and will conclude in Stuttgart this October at an epic finale. The tour reveals the new S-Class ahead of the local market introduction, showcasing innovation, luxury, and technological leadership.
New Zealand leg: Auckland to Queenstown
The New Zealand chapter of the tour will commence in Auckland in mid-June, featuring a unique showcase of 140 Mercedes-Benz vehicles owned by passionate customers, collectors, and performance enthusiasts.
Any owner of a Mercedes-Benz can register at 140 Places | Mercedes-Benz New Zealand and we would
particularly be interested to hear from owners of:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class 221 series 2005 to 2013
Mercedes-Benz S-Class 220 series 1998 to 2005
Mercedes-Benz S-Class 140 series 1991 to 1998
Mercedes-Benz S-Class 126 series 1976 to 1992
Mercedes-Benz S-Class 116 series 1972 to 1980 (W 116)
Mercedes-Benz 250S to 300 SEL 6.3 1965 to 1972 (W 108/109)
Mercedes-Benz 220 to 300 SE/300 SE long 1959 to 1965 (W 111/112)
Mercedes-Benz 220/220 s / 220 SE “Ponton” 1954 to 1959 (W180/W128)
Mercedes-Benz 220 1951 to 1954 (W 187)
From Auckland, the journey will travel the length of the country, culminating in Queenstown six days later. Along the route, each stop will highlight not only the brand’s technological achievements, but also the people, stories, and communities that bring Mercedes-Benz to life.
Follow the journey
The “140 Years. 140 Places” tour can be followed globally via the Mercedes-Benz Media platform and the Mercedes-Benz Community, offering exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and live moments from across six continents. 140 YEARS. 140 PLACES
The all-new S-Class is a future vehicle not currently available for sale in New Zealand, the local market launch is expected later this year.
