A modified 4x4 vehicle on display at the South Africa 4x4 and Outdoor Show at Zwartkop Raceway in Centurion. Photo credit: NNA News / Luyanda Danca

NNA News - Thousands of motoring, adventure and outdoor enthusiasts have gathered at Zwartkop Raceway in Centurion for the annual South Africa 4x4 and Outdoor Show.

The two-day event, taking place on September 5 and 6, has brought together families, motoring enthusiasts and outdoor lovers from across South Africa, with some visitors travelling from overseas. Visitors have been able to experience 4x4 demonstrations, off-road driving, helicopter rides, music, food and a range of activities aimed at families.

Helicopter pilot and Helivate Helicopter Services CEO Hayley Cumming said the event had been particularly busy, with many visitors experiencing a helicopter flight for the first time. “It’s pretty exhilarating. There’s a lot going on. The crowd is massive. Often, it’s people’s first-time flying helicopters, so that’s always an incredible moment,” Cumming said.

Visitors walk among 4x4 vehicles, outdoor equipment and exhibitors at the South Africa 4x4 and Outdoor Show in Centurion. Photo credit: NNA News / Luyanda Danca

She told NNA News that three helicopters can operate at the same time, creating a busy environment for pilots and ground crews. Event organiser Alan Cawood said the show was designed to offer visitors a broad range of activities beyond motoring. “This is probably one of the best shows in Southern Africa. You can test drive on seven different tracks, either sit as a passenger, drive yourself or watch. There’s so much,” Cawood said. He said the event also included food stands, entertainment, puppet shows, snakebite demonstrations and other activities aimed at families.

For members of the outdoor community, the event is also an opportunity to encourage younger generations to take an interest in camping and overlanding. Johnny van Nieuwenhuizen said the industry needed to do more to introduce young people to outdoor activities. “Come down to the show. The vibes here are immaculate. But if I was to give one message to people in the overlanding and camping industry, bring more young people in. We’re the next generation. Get kids outdoors and just enjoy the vibes and energy that’s down here,” van Nieuwenhuizen said.

A Helivate helicopter prepares for passenger flights at the South Africa 4x4 and Outdoor Show at Zwartkop Raceway. Photo credit: NNA News / Luyanda Danca

Young visitors were also among those attending with their families. Lindiwe Mayi said the event had given her a better understanding of her father’s passion for vehicles and 4x4s. “I’ve gotten to see what my dad loves, the Cruisers, the engines and what they produce. Maybe one day I’ll own my own Cruiser,” Mayi said. The show is taking place during South Africa’s Heritage Month, which this year provides an additional backdrop for events focused on shared experiences and identity.

View from inside a helicopter over the Zwartkop Raceway during the South Africa 4x4 and Outdoor Show in Centurion. Photo credit: NNA News / Luyanda Danca

For organisers and exhibitors, the South Africa 4x4 and Outdoor Show is about more than vehicles and adventure. Motoring, aviation, music, food and family entertainment have brought together visitors of different ages and backgrounds at Zwartkop Raceway.

The event continues on Sunday, September 6.