Ranger record attempt revs up at Methven

What started as a grassroots addition to the Methven A&P Show on March 21 has quickly become one of its biggest crowd-pullers — and this year, the Methven Ute Muster is aiming even higher.

Running alongside the event, organisers are preparing for a Ford Ranger world record attempt, alongside a growing line-up of ute categories and a new women-led class designed to broaden who the event speaks to.

Run as part of the annual Methven Show, the Ute Muster has been steadily building momentum since its launch in 2021.

Organiser Douglas Richards, who joined the show committee last year, says the event is about more than shiny vehicles.

“It’s about getting people off the farm and back into the community,” he says. “Whether you’re a farmer, a tradie, a townie or a weekend warrior — if you’ve got a ute or a four-wheel drive, there’s a place for you.”

This year’s headline attraction will be a Ford Ranger world record attempt, aiming to line up as many Rangers as possible on the day.

The attempt will be held on a paddock adjacent to the Ute Muster.

Richards says the idea reflects the reality of rural Canterbury.

“The Ford Ranger has had a massive impact on our area. Farmers, tradies, townies — just about everyone has one, or has had one at some point,” he says.

 “It’s a legacy vehicle in rural communities, and this is a chance to show what our area is built on.”

While the record attempt focuses on Rangers, organisers are keen to stress that all utes are welcome at the Muster, which includes around 11 judged categories ranging from pre-1986 vehicles through to best accessorised, best modified, cleanest ute and dirtiest ute.

Among the additions this year is Hers Not His, a new category celebrating women who own and work their utes.

“We want everyone included,” Richards says. “There are a lot of women with awesome utes, but sometimes events like this can feel male-dominated. This is about recognising the women who are out there using their utes every day and encouraging them to come along.”

The Ute Muster also features a crowd-favourite ute tug-of-war, run using a custom tow bar system.

Last year, 15 utes competed, with one blown differential later turned into a trophy — a reminder that the event leans just as much into fun as it does competition.

Entry to the Ute Muster is $20 for adults, which includes show entry, with proceeds feeding directly back into the Methven A&P Show. Children are free.

Funds raised help support local causes, including community halls, calf and lamb clubs, scholarships and charities such as the Methven Care Trust.

This year, more than $6,000 worth of prizes are already confirmed, ranging from Prezzy cards to products supplied by Canterbury businesses.

To help gauge numbers for the record attempt, organisers are encouraging Ford Ranger owners to register ahead of time, though registration will not be compulsory.

On-the-day entry remains available, ensuring the event stays accessible for those who decide at the last minute.

Richards says the aim is to make it easy for people to turn up and take part.

“We don’t want anything that puts people off,” he says. “If the weather’s good and people decide on the day to come along, that’s exactly what we want.”

As the Methven Show approaches, organisers are hopeful the combination of community spirit, friendly rivalry and a potential world record will draw utes — and people — from well beyond the district.

For Richards, the goal is simple: “Make it bigger, make it better, and make sure everyone feels welcome.”

Methven Ute Muster – Event Info

When:Methven A&P Show Day, 2026

Where:Methven Showgrounds, Canterbury

What:

Ute Muster featuring a Ford Ranger world record attempt, multiple judged categories, ute tug-of-war and the new Hers Not His category.

Register (optional):

Ford Ranger owners are encouraged to register ahead of time to help organisers plan numbers.

👉 https://www.proudtobeafarmernz.com/utemuster

More information:

Methven A&P Show – https://www.methvenshow.co.nz

Follow:

Instagram: @methvenutemuster