About 4XJournal

4XJournal was born from a need for high-quality, story-driven content about 4WD adventure — right here in Aotearoa. With an incredible mix of Japanese imports and New Zealand-new four-wheel drives on our roads and tracks, we’ve long had the tools to explore our own backyard. Now, we’re telling the stories that come from those journeys.

Down every gravel road, beach trail, and high-country pass, there’s a story waiting to be told — about the vehicle, the people behind the wheel, and the local businesses supporting the scene. That’s where we come in.

From technical builds to off-grid escapes, 4XJournal captures the heart of New Zealand’s 4WD culture — in print and online. Independent, adventurous, and proudly Kiwi.

René Vermeer — Founder and Editor

I’m René Vermeer, the creator of 4XJournal — New Zealand’s premium 4WD adventure magazine. Before diving into the world of four-wheel drives, I spent nearly a decade immersed in the performance car scene, working with NZ Performance Car Magazine and launching TimeAttackR.com.

My 4WD journey kicked off after catching the camping bug and transforming an Audi Allroad V8 into a touring rig. That build led to an 18-day road trip around New Zealand’s South Island — and from there, the craving for more off-road capability took over. A Toyota Land Cruiser soon followed (shout-out to my partner’s Cruiser-loving family and my time working at Toyota).

So why did I start 4XJournal? I’ve always been a storyteller. When I got into the 4WD scene, I saw a gap: not enough real adventure stories, in-depth builds, or Kiwi off-road content that truly captured the spirit of exploring our backyard. I built 4XJournal to change that — a platform that’s more than just social media. It’s a full-fledged website, a collectible print magazine, and a growing community for 4WD adventurers and storytellers.

Got an epic 4WD build or adventure worth sharing? Let’s tell your story.

Glen McNamara — Photographer

Glen McNamara is a talented photographer that has specialised in capturing automotive and motorsport photography for nearly a decade for some of New Zealand’s largest publications. A feature car specialist, we’re incredibly stoked to have Glen involved in the 4XJournal team, holding down Christchurch and surrounding areas.

Kaleb Johnston — Photographer

Kaleb needs no introduction in the automotive media space, but we'll give it our best shot! Kaleb is a Christchurch local that has transitioned like many of us from performance vehicles to off-road vehicles. During this journey, Kaleb has been photographing professionally for clients around New Zealand, while also capturing his own automotive shenanigans. You can see more of his work here.

"Hi, my name is Kaleb. From low cars to big trucks, I love anything automotive. Growing up me and my brother were always fascinated with cars and that later inspired me to pick up a camera and start shooting. Fast forward 8 years and I’m now fulltime shooting professionally for clients all around New Zealand covering many genres. However my true passion is within the automotive world and I’m excited to expand on that with 4XJournal!"

Damian Smuts — Photojournalist

Damian Smuts is one our talented Auckland-based photojournalists. With a life-long passion for performance and off-road vehicles, Damian brings a unique perspective to 4XJournal through what he captures with his lens and follows through with compelling stories. We're stoked to have Damian supporting us on the 4XJournal team.

"Hi, my name is Damian and let’s just say I love anything with wheels on it! Since I can remember, I have been fascinated about cars and trucks, from growing up watching motor racing in the '90s to being in the automotive industry myself for nearly 15 years. Passion for anything automotive runs in my veins and I am glad to be given the opportunity to share that passion with you. "