Community focused
It’s been a whirlwind winter for the Giltrap Group, with the iconic automotive company proving its commitment to the community.
From the glamour of New Zealand Fashion Week to the roar of engines at its Starship Supercar Show, Giltrap has opened its doors and resources to celebrate creativity, community, and causes that matter.
In September, Giltrap Group hosted the third edition of the Starship Supercar Show at its Auckland headquarters. Spread across four levels, the event brought together more than 80 vehicles, a dazzling collection worth over $100 million. Motorsport machines, hypercars, classics, rally legends, and even a Toro Rosso Formula 1 car filled the space, creating a mecca for enthusiasts. Among the many highlights was the New Zealand debut of an ultra-rare Manthey Porsche.
Every cent of ticket sales went to the Starship Foundation, ensuring that the spectacle had a purpose far beyond horsepower. “This is in support of Starship Children’s Hospital and a great chance for us as a group, and for many of our customers, to showcase some incredible cars,” says CEO Steve Kenchington. “The cause is at the forefront. One of the best moments was seeing a Lamborghini wrapped in a design created by a young person currently receiving care at Starship.”
The family-friendly event attracted visitors and donors from across the country, reinforcing Giltrap’s philosophy of blending passion with purpose.
But cars weren’t the only focus this season. Just weeks earlier, Giltrap took centre stage as the naming rights sponsor of New Zealand Fashion Week. For Steve, the partnership was about more than prestige. “Part of supporting Fashion Week for us was about backing industries, talent, and emerging businesses in our local communities. We saw crossover between what people love about the design elements of our cars and what they love about fashion.”
The collaboration went beyond branding. From a McLaren 750S engine start that signalled the beginning of shows, to the Giltrap VIP lounge lined with icons like Sir Colin Giltrap and Liam Lawson, the company infused its automotive DNA into the festival atmosphere.
As part of its involvement, Giltrap created the Helping Kiwis Fly – Fashion Edition Award. This inaugural honour went to designer Rebe Healy of REBE, who received a tailored support package: financial assistance, a Škoda vehicle for 12 months, mentoring from senior fashion figures, access to Giltrap spaces for shows or studio use, and coverage in Giltrap’s 66 magazine. “It’s about giving designers the tools to take off on a global stage,” says Steve.
The award echoes Giltrap’s long tradition of championing motorsport talent, helping Kiwi drivers compete internationally. Extending this ethos to fashion demonstrates the company’s broader vision: empowering New Zealanders to fly in their respective industries.
And the momentum continues. Giltrap is also a key sponsor of the inaugural Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival, presented by NZFW and running 7–9 November. Following the recent opening of its southern base in Islington, the company sees this as a natural step in building connections with Canterbury communities. “It will be a great event to be part of, and we’re excited about the ways we can support the Christchurch fashion community,” says Steve.