Here in NZ, the ute is practically a national symbol, but Kiwis have once again proven their unparalleled dedication to the mighty Toyota Hilux by absolutely obliterating a world record in spectacular fashion.
The Great Ute Convergence
On a picture-perfect Sunday at Real Country Farm in Southland, something extraordinary happened. Like a scene from a vehicular pilgrimage, 1,440 Toyota Hilux utes converged on a single location, creating what can only be described as the ultimate paradise for ute enthusiasts.
This wasn’t just a casual meetup of truck aficionados. This was a methodically planned assault on the previous “unofficial official” world record of 495 Toyota Hilux vehicles, set by South Africa in 2010. The Kiwis didn’t just beat that record—they demolished it by a staggering 945 vehicles, nearly tripling the previous benchmark.
“We’ve always known New Zealanders have an unhealthy obsession with the Hilux, but this confirms it’s a full-blown nationwide love affair,” joked one attendee, as the seemingly endless parade of utes rolled into the farm just south of Lake Wakatipu.
From Far and Wide They Came
The event, organized by GWD Toyota in partnership with Real Country Farm, saw Hilux owners from across the country make the journey to Southland. Some dedicated enthusiasts even traveled from the North Island, traversing sea and land with their beloved workhorses in tow.
Glen Rutherford, CEO of GWD Toyota, could barely contain his excitement: “We beat the existing record by 945, which is a reflection of the love and loyalty that Kiwis have for the Hilux. This isn’t just a world record—it’s a testament to the Kiwi spirit and our enduring relationship with a vehicle that’s become part of our national identity.”
A Rolling Museum of Hilux History
The gathering served as an impromptu museum exhibition of 46 years of Hilux evolution. Standing proudly among the sea of utes was Kieran Armistead’s 1978 model—the oldest Hilux at the event. This vintage beauty from Riverton stood in stark contrast to the newest arrival: the 2024 Hilux Hybrid, Toyota’s first foray into combining diesel turbo power with a 48V hybrid system.
“It’s like watching your family tree come to life,” remarked one multi-generational Hilux owner. “My grandfather had one, my father had one, I have one, and my kids will probably have one too. It’s practically genetic at this point.”
The event showcased everything from meticulously preserved classics to heavily modified modern beasts sporting lift kits, snorkels, and enough auxiliary lighting to illuminate a small town. Each vehicle told its own story—of farm work and family adventures, of beach trips and bush tracks, of reliability through floods and snow.
More Than Just Trucks
Toyota New Zealand Assistant Vice President Susanne Hardy highlighted the community aspect of the gathering: “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.”
Indeed, the event transcended being merely about vehicles. Farmers swapped stories of impossible rescues performed by their trusty utes. Tradies compared modification tips and tricks. Families shared tales of camping trips and off-road adventures. The Hilux had become more than a mode of transportation—it was the common thread weaving together disparate lives across New Zealand.
A Record Not Easily Broken
As the last Hilux rolled into position and the final count was confirmed, a cheer erupted across Real Country Farm. At 1,440 vehicles, the new record was officially established—one that will likely stand for years to come.
“South Africa might try to reclaim the title,” one organizer quipped, “but they’d need three times as many vehicles as they had last time. This is New Zealand’s record now, and like the Hilux itself, it’s built to last.”
The Enduring Legacy
The Toyota Hilux has been a fixture on New Zealand roads and farms since its introduction, earning its reputation through decades of reliable service in some of the country’s most demanding conditions. From hauling hay bales to towing boats, from navigating flooded farm tracks to climbing snow-covered mountain roads, the Hilux has become synonymous with Kiwi resilience and practicality.
As the sun set on Real Country Farm that Sunday, 1,440 engines roared to life in unison—a thunderous automotive applause celebrating not just a world record, but the unbreakable bond between New Zealanders and their beloved utes.
In a world of changing automotive trends and electric revolutions, the Hilux gathering served as a reminder that some relationships stand the test of time. And in New Zealand, that relationship is now officially stronger than anywhere else on Earth—by a margin of 945 utes and counting.
As one farmer put it while climbing back into his mud-splattered 2005 model: “It’s not just a truck, mate. It’s practically a citizen at this point.”
