With the Motor Company celebrating its 120th Anniversary in the same year as H.O.G. celebrates 40 years of community, hundreds of dedicated Harley-Davidson owners from as far as Canada, Japan, Australia and Fiji, descended to The Gate in Cromwell, Central Otago between 10th to 12th November for the most exhilarating weekend of the year.
The 2023 National H.O.G. Rally was an action-packed experience for all H.O.G. Members, with a high-octane lineup both on and off the track. Amidst jaw-dropping scenery of sweeping roads, rugged mountain ranges and lakes, in glorious weather, H.O.G. Members enjoyed chapter challenges alongside the renowned Thunder Ride, guided rides, food trucks, a buffet meal, and performances from local Queenstown bands.
Harley-Davidson has long established itself as one of the world's most iconic and lifestyle-driven brands, with its influence evident in every product and experience it offers. This event is the culmination of a year-long celebration, marking a significant chapter in Harley-Davidson's 120-year legacy.
Aptly named, the Thunder Run, saw almost 400 bikes cruise in roaring glory from Cromwell to Clyde Dam, an area usually closed to the public, which was permitted entry by Contact Energy NZ in support of the community-focused ride.
With community and social impact at the heart of the event, the H.O.G. Rally proudly supported two local organisations including Journeys, an establishment empowering women with life skills and means to combat bullying, and Clyde Primary School, which performed a Kapa Haka with profound energy, welcoming H.O.G. Members as they rolled into the small historic township of Clyde.
Three guided adventures also took place over the weekend, including a memorable ride to Nevis Valley. Led by McIver & Veitch Harley-Davidson on Pan America models, riders enjoyed a wondrous route of hard-packed gravel faring over majestic mountains and river crossings that showcased the breathtaking local region.
Coined the ‘Olympics’ of the Harley-Davidson world, this year’s chapter challenge was go-kart racing hosted at Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell. A Chapter games win is a rarity, and after a healthy dose of competition, Deep South HOG prevailed as crowned national champions.
In true spirit, MC and Cromwell local Grant Stewart concluded, “The people, the bikes and the rides made the event second to none”.
“The Gate at Cromwell, Central Otago was a beautiful location to mark 120 years of Harley-Davidson and 40 years of H.O.G. in New Zealand, said Harley-Davidson ANZ Managing Director, Nigel Keough.
“The greatest thing about this event was seeing all our local chapters, dealerships and members, including families, catching up, reconnecting and making new friendships. There was lots of laughter and smiles amongst our community who came together from far and wide to volunteer and help each other over the weekend, all because of one passion - Harley-Davidson. The event was a great success and Harley-Davidson looks forward to sharing more customer engagement experiences with our customers in the future.”
The Harley Owners Group is open to all Harley-Davidson owners as well as family & friends of Harley-Davidson owners across the world who share a passion for riding. By joining a local chapter, members can sign up to exclusive benefits such as H.O.G. events that make the most out of their ownership experience.