More than 1400 Toyota Hiluxes rolled into Real Country Farm, south of Lake Wakatipu, on Sunday, March 2, setting a new world record for the largest gathering of the popular ute.
The official tally of 1440 Hilux utes far exceeded the previous record of 495, set in South Africa in 2010. The event, organised by GWD Toyota in collaboration with Real Country Farm, saw Hilux owners from across the country — some even from the North Island — join forces to celebrate the legacy of one of New Zealand’s most iconic vehicles.
GWD Toyota chief executive Glen Rutherford described the turnout as a testament to the Hilux’s deep-rooted popularity in New Zealand.
“We beat the existing record by 945, which is a reflection of the love and loyalty that Kiwis have for the Hilux.
“People came from the North Island just to participate. This is an incredible achievement and a proud moment for all Hilux fans in New Zealand. It’s a vehicle that has earned its reputation for reliability, toughness, and versatility over the decades, and this record now proves that New Zealand has the most passionate Hilux fans,” Rutherford says.
From farmers and tradies to adventurers and families, Hilux owners arrived in droves to showcase their vehicles, many customised with unique modifications.
Spanning 46 years of Hilux history, the lineup included everything from classic models to the latest editions. The oldest Hilux in attendance, a 1978 model, belonged to Riverton local Kieran Armistead, while the newest vehicle on site was the 2024 Hilux 48-volt hybrid.
Toyota New Zealand assistant vice president Susanne Hardy praised the event’s organisers and highlighted the Hilux’s enduring connection with Kiwi drivers.
“Community is a huge focus for Toyota, so it’s wonderful to see how a truly iconic Kiwi vehicle can bring people together.
“The team at GWD Toyota and Real Country Farm have done an amazing job in putting this together. Having a vehicle in our line-up that’s led to such loyal supporters, who just love the Hilux brand so much, fills all of us at Toyota with a huge amount of pride,” she says.
