4x4 Outdoor Expo Christchurch 2024

September 4, 2025

With every ‘scene’ here in New Zealand and abroad, there’s usually an underlying support network that holds the community together. A place where enthusiasts can get together, share stories and elevate their knowledge and experience in their chosen field of passion. For 4WD enthusiasts in New Zealand, the 4x4 Outdoor Expo is that exact network in the form of a two-day event, held across both islands. Auckland’s Kumeu is the North Island event, and Christchurch hosts the South Island event. Here's a look back at the 2024 South Island Expo.

4x4 Outdoor Expo Christchurch 2024

The first-ever 4x4 Outdoor Expo Christchurch was a roaring success, bringing together an enthusiastic community of off-road enthusiasts, local clubs, vendors and exhibitors. With 120 impressive builds in the Show & Shine section, thrilling challenges and a strong industry presence, the event truly established itself as the place to build your 4x4.

Show & Shine: A showcase of passion and craftsmanship

The Show & Shine competition really highlighted the dedication and hard work of the 4WD community. There was a diverse range of vehicles on display, from classic restorations to highly modified machines and a standout feature was a family team — mum, dad and their two sons, Jerome and Rowan Clark — who proudly parked together, sharing the journey of their builds.

One of the most talked about builds was SYCO45, an FJ45 with a BMW M57 engine, widened body (by 120mm) and a GQ differential and suspension setup. Owner Kieran Pauley’s incredible craftsmanship earned SYCO45 the prestigious 4x4 of the Year, Christchurch award.

Awards and recognition

A major highlight was the awards ceremony, where winners took home well-deserved trophies and recognition for their hard work. Thanks to the generous sponsors, the event was able to celebrate a range of categories:

4X4 of the Year – SYCO45, 1982 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 – Kieran Pauley, sponsored by 4X4 Outdoor Expo
Best Panel & Paint – Toyota FJ40 – Jacob Bent, sponsored by The Structural Shop
Best Modified – Land Rover Series II – Caleb Bellamy, sponsored by Huntaway Fabrication
Best Classic – Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 – Jerome Clark, sponsored by Redarc
Best Late Series – Toyota Hilux – Brook Fendall, sponsored by Pro Auto 4X4 & Overland
Most Inspiring Build – Nissan Safari – Rowan Clark, sponsored by Ecoxgear
Best Ute – Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 – Ray Pauley, sponsored by Kaiapoi Repowers & Exhaust
Best Female Build – Toyota 80 Series – Leigh Kirby, sponsored by Cor-4X4 & Repco
Best Club Display – Chic’s Off-Road 4X4, sponsored by Peter Munro ARB
Best Camping Set-Up – Ford Ranger – Nigel Hands, sponsored by Xplora

Each winner was recognised for their craftsmanship and commitment to the 4x4 scene, solidifying their place in the history of the Christchurch Expo.

Camper giveaway: A lucky winner

One of the biggest moments of the weekend was the camper giveaway. Congratulations to Graeme, a Rolleston local, who wasted no time collecting his new camper, calling back within 30 minutes to arrange pick-up the same night!

Attendees and community spirit

The event brought together generations of 4WD lovers, all eager to see the latest gear, demonstrations and vehicle setups. Wolfbrook Arena buzzed with excitement as attendees explored exhibitor stands, upgrading their builds and learning from industry experts. The overwhelming feedback confirmed that the South Island needed an event like this — finally, a local platform dedicated to off-road culture.

Clubs and online organisations

A strong presence from local clubs and online communities added to the event’s atmosphere. Groups like COR-4X4, Troopn Adventures, DC Customs and Fabrication, Kiwi4wd and Gone Wild Racing showcased their builds and connected with attendees, proving that the 4WD lifestyle is more than just a hobby — it’s a thriving community.

Vendors and exhibitors: Industry support in full force

The expo featured an impressive range of exhibitors, from dealerships to accessory suppliers, camping gear specialists, fabrication shops, mechanics, suspension experts, tyre vendors and off-road caravan suppliers. Inside and outside exhibitor sites were packed with eager attendees looking to upgrade their rigs and discover new products. The strong industry support reinforced the expo’s mission: to be the go-to event for off-road enthusiasts looking to build, modify and explore.

A milestone for New Zealand’s 4x4 scene

The inaugural 4x4 Outdoor Expo Christchurch set the benchmark for off-road events in the South Island. With a mix of vehicle showcases, competitions, giveaways and industry support, it proved to be an essential event for any 4WD enthusiast. The overwhelming success signals a bright future, and we can’t wait to see what the next expo brings!