The 2024 Dunedin Truck Show once again proved a dodgy weather report can’t keep truckies away from a good show.

At about 6.45am on 27 January, the committee was in the preparation stages of setting up for the Dunedin Truck Show when the heavens opened. Thunder, lighting, rain, hail, wind – you name it, we copped it for about 20-odd minutes, leaving the show grounds soaked and us wondering if the show would go ahead.

But by 7.30am, the sun was out, birds were chirping, and the temperature had lifted, setting up the day for a blue-sky balmy 26°C. By 8.30am, the trucks started rolling in the gate, which was a sight to see. Our biggest fear was truck numbers, as the roads were still wet. After all the hard work and dedication put in by owners and drivers, there’s nothing worse than washing and polishing then to cop a wet road and road spray.

But in they came, all 59 of them, high, wide and handsome. We had a good mix of brands and configurations, along with many familiar faces who have supported the show from day one.

The major sponsor, Reillys Towage & Salvage, was front and centre with its Freightliner Argosy under-body-lift recovery truck. The Freightliner is a statement piece that had many a truck driver looking over its capabilities. But it was the children who were drawn to it the most – they just love its size.

A massive thank-you to everyone who put in a fantastic effort with presentation; all trucks looked spectacular. Congratulations to every category winner – your results are well-deserved. To the team at A & L Coombs, who took out King Rig, that Scania is clearly a force to be reckoned with. We are immensely grateful to the three judges – the late Alex McLellan, Hugh Tait and Mark McNeilly – for the job they provided on the day. Choosing winners was tough.

We would also like to acknowledge all our sponsors, who yet again in tough times, donated prizes for the 26 categories. Without you all, the show wouldn’t be possible.

Dunedin Truck Show 2024 Results