CLUB CORNER

Clubs are the cornerstone of 4WD activity in this country. In this, the second in our new Club Corner, we profile one of the biggest and most active, the Wellington Cross Country Vehicle Club.

The Wellington Cross Country Vehicle Club ( CCVC) was formed in 1971 when a small group of 4WD enthusiasts gathered in Upper Hutt to discuss forming a four-wheeldrive club. From these small beginnings CCVC has grown to be one of the largest clubs of its type in New Zealand with around 250 members. The club now caters for all levels of off- road driving with four grades of trip. The Family 4x4 and Shiny 4x4 grades are the most popular as these are easier trips where damage is less likely, and are well suited to vehicles that are also everyday transport. The Club 4x4 and Hard Yaka grades provide a driving challenge for those with more robust and capable vehicles, who don’t mind some damage during the trip. Trips are t ypically full day outings, but there are also half- day trips for those on a time limit, and we run multi- day touring trips a few times a year. In addition to planned trips, the club runs a number of community service activities each year, including support for the Greater Wellington Regional Council ( GWRC) Summer Programme and local beach clean- ups. Potential members first come as visitors on a few of the regular Family 4x4 trips. These trips are run by an experienced trip leader with a support team offering guidance to the visitors. After completing the membership requirements, which include some structured advice in handling various offroad driving situations and ensuring their vehicle meets club safety standards, new members can work their way up to the level of trip they find most satisfying. Many members continue to enjoy the social atmosphere of the Family 4x4 and Shiny 4x4 grades while others embrace the challenge of more difficult trips and work their way up to Hard Yaka trips. Overall CCVC provides a friendly, social atmosphere where people can enjoy using their 4WD as it was built to be use, and see some amazing scenery at the same time. To find out more check out the club’s website at www.cvcc.org.nz