Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, BLU500 became a familiar sight on key freight routes across the North Island. 

Like any truck that spends a decade on the road, it gathered stories along the way. Long runs, early starts, changing seasons and plenty of kilometres.

After eight years of service, Number One was sold as newer trucks with updated technology joined the fleet.

As the company reflected on its history,  particularly after missing the chance to properly mark its 50th anniversary due to COVID restrictions, the idea of bringing the original truck home began to take shape.  

In 2024, BLU500 was located and purchased.
It returned to the workshop with a clear objective: to restore it back to original fleet colours and branding, with a modern lens.

The decision to convert it from a rigid to a tractor unit was made early in the project for practical reasons to align with our current fleet.

The restoration began by assessing components and making a plan and embarked on the frustrating task of sourcing parts for a 30 year old truck.

A new transmission and clutch were installed. The driveline was rebuilt and balanced. Brakes were renewed with fresh linings and drums. Suspension bushes and components were replaced. The chassis was shortened back to tractor unit length and engineer certified.

The cab underwent significant work at Malcolm Cab solutions in Rotorua, and even the original wheels were refurbished after nearly 30 years.

Sourcing parts proved to be one of the more difficult aspects of the project. Some components were no longer available locally and had to be tracked down through previous owners or sourced from the United States. Shipping delays added time to the process, but the team persisted until everything required for the rebuild had been secured.

The project has involved multiple generations. Rod Alexander, who first drove number 1 in 1995, has overseen the restoration. His son Matt, the eldest grandchild in the Alexander family, has worked on the truck in his spare time. Brodie Leef, whose late father Preston drove number one in the 1990s, has also contributed to the rebuild. Parts and Services Ltd in Taupō, Marsh Engineering Services Ltd and Malcolm Cab Solutions have all played key roles in the process.

By 2026, Number one had been restored to its original 1995 appearance and specification.

It will be used for community events, road safety education and industry initiatives.

After more than 30 years, Number one is back where it started as a restored part of Alexander Group’s history. It has been named Thunderbird One.