The annual Jeep Jamboree, which runs over next Waitangi Weekend, is fully subscribed, with more than 300 people and 100 vehicles registered. And a waiting list has been created for those who still want to join the event.
It’s the first time in the seven-year history that the Jeep Jamboree has been over-subscribed and underlines the growing popularity of the four-wheel-drive extravaganza.
“The response from Jeep owners to the 2004 Jeep Jamboree has been greater than expected and we couldn’t be more delighted,” says Brett Aspden, General Manager of Chrysler Jeep New Zealand, which organises the event on behalf of Jeep owners.
“The Jeep Jamboree has gained a reputation for providing a good mix of four-wheel-driving and fun activities the whole family can enjoy and it is great to see how it has grown in stature since our first one in 1997.”
Every year the Jamboree moves to different locations around the country, offering Jeep owners the opportunity to go off-roading in places that few other New Zealanders ever get to experience.
Last summer’s Jeep Jamboree, which took place in Nelson, was voted the best in the event’s history and Mr Aspden says a lot of planning is going into making the next one in Hawkes Bay even better.
“Our aim is to provide challenging drives in spectacular surroundings, whilst ensuring the safety of those taking part and caring for the environment and there is no doubt that Hawkes Bay has much to offer,” adds Mr Aspden.
“We take a very responsible approach to four-wheel-driving and we want to demonstrate that it is a good leisure activity when organised well.”
It is due to environmental reasons that a limit on the numbers of customer vehicles taking part has been set at 100, ensuring that the land does not suffer from wear and tear. The impact on the land is further reduced by dividing customers into six smaller groups to drive different areas at different times.
Jamboree organisers have been negotiating routes with a number of landowners in the Hawkes Bay, with the aim of showing off the best the region has to offer. And before they head home, the Jeep owners will put something back into the community with a yet-to-be-announced environmental initiative.
The Jeep Jamboree, which is open to anyone who owns a real American Jeep, attracts a variety of models dating right back to World War Two veterans to the present day Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee.
