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New Zealand smashes world record as 1,440 Toyota Hilux gather in Southland
1,440 Toyota Hilux utes gathered at Real Country Farm to set an ‘unofficial official’ world record.
On a stunning day at Real Country Farm in Southland on Sunday 2 March, Kiwi from across the country gathered to completely smash the world record for the highest number of Toyota Hilux ever gathered in one place.
The Toyota Hilux has long been a Kiwi favourite, renowned for its toughness, reliability, and performance in New Zealand’s rugged conditions. The event aimed to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Hilux while uniting the community of owners who have made it one of the country’s most iconic vehicles.
In total, 1,440 Toyota Hilux made the pilgrimage to Real Country Farm, just south of Lake Wakatipu, to help smash an unofficial world record for a collection of 495 Toyota Hilux vehicles, set in South Africa in 2010.
Organised by GWD Toyota in association with Real Country Farm, the invitation went out to all Hilux owners of all models and vintages to register for the event.
Glen Rutherford, CEO of GWD Toyota says that the passion of local Hilux owners has helped to set a new benchmark, one that will be as tough to beat as the Hilux itself.
“We beat the existing record by 945, which is a reflection of the love and loyalty that Kiwi have for the Hilux. People came all the way 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," he says.
The event was not only about setting a world record but also about celebrating the Hilux community and its rich history in New Zealand. Families, farmers, tradies, and adventurers alike gathered to showcase their Hilux, ranging from classic models to the latest editions, many adorned with modifications and unique personal touches.
In total, 46 years of the Toyota Hilux legacy was on display: the oldest Hilux present was a 1978 model year, which belonged to Riverton man Kieran Armistead, while the newest was the 2024 Hilux Hybrid, the first Toyota to transition to a hybrid powertrain that couples a diesel turbo engine with a 48V hybrid system with no loss of functionality.
Toyota New Zealand Assistant Vice President, Susanne Hardy says 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 the most 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.