08 Nov 2005 :: Christchurch Toy and Collectibles Fair Report

The Toy and Collectables Fair is an event run by a group of local movie enthusiasts and toy collectors. It is an annual event aimed at people of all ages where they can buy sell or trade anything from movie memorabilia, trading cards, and comics to toys, action figures die cast cars dolls and all sorts of other collectables. This year, it took place on Saturday 5th November, at the Phillipstown School Hall.

Proceeds were donated to Canteen in support of young people with Cancer. This is their second year in aid of Canteen. For more information visit www.canteen.org.nz.

The following report was submitted by Nick TePaa:

Once again, another successful Swap Meet, with hundreds of people through the door. It was a little different to previous years in that there wasn't as many children this time around. There were almost 20 stalls this time which is double our record! Lots of great items there: Star Wars, Gerry Anderson, Transformers, Carebears, G.I.Joes, Barbies, diecast collectibles etc. All who attended had a great time. The 501st had a stall there and were walking around talking to people about what we do - we also had a display of helmets and weapons as well as the 501st DVDs playing through the day. A great range of food and drinks was available thanks to my wife, daughter, Mum and Auntie. As usual there was a gold coin donation for entry which is given to Canteen.

About 30 mins into the event, at peak trading, a guy walks up to me and says "what is this worth to ya" ...and hands over a mint-on-card P.O.T.F Yakface ...we were all a bit stunned. He says "it's gotta be worth $100-$300" ...I said "At least!". Then he put it back in his jacket and walked out. Random. We all looked at each other saying did that just happen? This is the 3rd Swap Meet the guy has shown up at but the first time we have seen and held the figure.

I usually buy more than I sell but this year only bought one item - unusual...it is 2 uncut sheets of the NZ-issued red RoTJ bubblegum cards.

Well, thats about all from me - just one last 'Thank-you' to Cen for all the time/effort/planning he puts into this event.

Many thanks to Microfilm Digital Print, Speedy Signs, More FM and the Christchurch Star.

Related article: 03 Dec 2004 Christchurch Swap Meet Report
Related article: Allens and Regina (Topps) trading cards

Nick T