Mac Lindsay with the family Model T Ford which has been in the family since 1954.

Mac Lindsay's father Ray died eight years ago. But it still feels like he is there. Just in a container in his backyard. And in the form of a car.

Mac inherited the Canadian-built 1916 Model T Ford after his dad passed away.

It was found in a Mossburn barn in 1954.

Originally shipped over from the United States in a crate, the car reached Invercargill by rail.

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By 1955 Ray had fully restored the car and painted it black, its traditional colour, Mac says.

Not long after, his father changed his mind and painted it white, as it remains today.

It has a huge significance in Invercargill, Mac says.

"It's the original car as far as the condition goes.'

The old car has had quite a life. It carries a lot of nostalgia for Mac. It has been in many processions. It's carried a Miss New Zealand and former South African Rugby Board president Danie Craven.

It has been shipped to Australia for rallies, plus it has taken part in rallies in Southland, Otago and Canterbury.

But more than that, it's had a huge involvement in the Lindsay family's life.

It has transported two of his three sons to their school balls. They have also learnt to drive it. Mac's youngest son is still a bit too short yet.

Mac's sisters have used it as a wedding car. And when Mac and his wife renewed their vows last year it was used then too.

It's part of the family and, more specifically, Ray's love - next to his wife of course, Mac says.

"When anyone who knew my dad sees the car they always ask how my father's car is. It's not mine," Mac smiles.

He's just taking care of it. He's not even sure if the car will remain in the family.

"[His sons] don't have to keep it if they don't want to. That's what my dad told me. It takes the pressure off."

Mac joined the vintage car club when his father died. Ray was a founding member of the club.

Every year the Ford comes out of the shipping container it's kept in and is driven to the Riverton rally.

"I start the engine regularly and change the oil very regularly."

He admits he is still trying to master the car. The car is quite a character, just like his dad, Mac says.

"You've got to respect it. If you don't, it will kick you and it will really hurt you. It's like a living thing."

It's very much a family heirloom that holds a lot of memories for him and his family.

He is often asked how much the car is worth.

"It's not something I'd want to consider," he smiles.