April 21 was a watershed weekend for 4WD enthusiasts: the first ever 4X4 Outdoor Expo, organised at Kumeu by Chris and Carissa Ballantyne.

A year and a half in the planning, the 4X4 Outdoor Expo saw an impressive turnout of 4,500 general admissions despite decidedly average weather.

Exhibitors were delighted with the turnout, some reporting three month’s revenue made up in the three days of the event.
Carissa Ballantyne said it was great to see a host of volunteers turning out to help with setting up sites, organising the various ‘lanes’ and marshalling traffic over the weekend.

“It really set the tone for what we were looking to do. We wanted an event which the 4WD community could feel was truly theirs and which was supported accordingly. There is a huge and enthusiastic market out there, which until now, has not been catered for exclusively. I think the response from the weekend showed the interest level that’s out there.”

And for that reason, the couple are already planning their next 4X4 event in April 2024.

The show featured a Trade Day, demonstrations, a Show and Shine with 170 vehicles, exhibitions from major retailers showcasing the very best of 4WD lifestyling and camping, a swap meet, a For Sale section and a host of Best in Show awards and more besides, including a massive raffle: a 1998 Nissan Safari with $10,000 worth of extras.

The event showcased certain aspects of 4WD life with dedicated areas or ‘lanes’. While these were largely to do with things like fabrication, mechanical and other vehicle-related themes, there was also a lane which focused heavily on the community: the Wellness lane.

This was set up to address the changing and often mentally challenging world we live in, and it was also a demonstration of the community mindset which was at the core of the 4X4 Outdoor Expo.

“Our biggest takeaway from the event was the huge community spirit which the show was the vehicle for. Yes, we did our bit to facilitate everything, but it was the support, the attendance and the huge amount of interest on the part of the exhibitors and the showgoers which made the event the success it was.”

Next year: April 19 to 21 in Auckland for the original 4x4 Outdoor Expo – mark the calendar and request the Friday off. We’re looking forward to it.