Big Four Competition and New Zealand’s outdoor lifestyle come together in Rotorua

The New Zealand Fishing, Hunting & 4X4 Expo returns to Rotorua from 14 to 16 August 2026, bringing together thousands of outdoor enthusiasts for one of the country’s biggest celebrations of hunting, fishing, 4X4, camping and adventure.

Held at the Rotorua’s Energy Events Centre and surrounding outdoor areas, the Expo has quickly become a must attend event for anyone passionate about the outdoors. In 2025, more than 11,000 people attended, with over two-thirds travelling from outside the Rotorua region.

This year’s event promises to be even bigger, featuring more than 100 exhibitors, a packed programme of workshops and demonstrations, family activities, great food vendors, the popular Show & Shine display, the 4X4 Flex Comp, and the return of the Big Four Rotorua competition.

The Big Four has rapidly become one of the most exciting additions to the outdoor calendar. Running from Wednesday 12 August through to Sunday 16 August, teams of four compete across four iconic species, including wild boar, red deer, rainbow trout and pheasant. With significant prizes, bragging rights and the opportunity to have your team recognised on stage at the Expo, the competition has quickly become a highlight of the weekend.

The competition culminates at the Expo on Sunday afternoon with a live weigh in and prizegiving, giving visitors the opportunity to see the entries up close, meet competitors and experience the atmosphere as teams battle for top honours.

Entries for the Big Four are now open at www.wildnzexpo.co.nz and teams are encouraged to enter early.

Inside the Expo, visitors can explore the latest products and innovations from across the outdoor industry. Whether you're looking for boats, fishing tackle, hunting gear, thermal optics, outdoor apparel, camping equipment, caravans, overlanding set-ups, trailers or the latest 4X4 accessories, there is something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Visitors can speak directly with manufacturers, retailers and industry experts, compare products side-by-side and take advantage of exclusive event offers.

The Expo is also designed to be a hands on experience. Workshops and demonstrations run throughout the weekend covering topics such as surfcasting, freshwater fishing, hunting, butchery, game preparation and outdoor skills.

Families are well catered for with activities for children, entertainment, food vendors and plenty to see and do throughout the day.

The Expo opens at 3pm on Friday 14 August, followed by full days from 9am on Saturday and Sunday.

At just $10 per adult online or at the gate, and $20 for a family pass, it offers one of the best value family weekends on the Bay of Plenty events calendar, with door prizes available for both online ticket purchasers and those buying at the gate.

Whether you’re entering the Big Four, looking for your next boat or 4X4 upgrade, wanting to learn new skills, or simply looking for a great day out with family and friends, the New Zealand Fishing, Hunting & 4X4 Expo delivers a uniquely Kiwi outdoor experience.

For tickets, Big Four entries and more information visit: www.wildnzexpo.co.nz

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