Thames (NZ) - 'The First Time:' A motorcycle was seen

In May 1900, a motor cycle was introduced in Auckland. It was described as having a speed of four to thirty miles an hour.

There was ONE motorcycle in Thames in September 1903, the paper wondered why this improved method of transport had not caught on, in Thames. a report in Thames Star 7 July 1903, by a local maori, felt "Kapai, I think tat te machine for te Maori, eh?" He much appreciated the lack of puff necessary!

Thames Star 30 September 1903

In 1908 the cost of a motorcycle was 75 Pounds, one lucky Thames-ite could buy a second-hand one for 45 Pounds.

This bike is not from Thames, but Christchurch area...but couldn't resist as it is a wonderful example of early transport
"Clyno motorcycle with a wicker sidecar and passengers, including a dog. Photograph taken circa 1920, by a photographer for The Press newspaper, probably in the Christchurch region."
Source: Clyno motorcycle. The Press (Newspaper) :Negatives. Ref: 1/1-008536-G. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. http://beta.natlib.govt.nz/records/23100822