Show’s charitable status
Preparations are now well under way for the next Waikato Show, which was recently granted charitable status.
The charity behind the show, the Waikato Winter Show Association, began a revival and revitalisation of the community event in 2008.
They had the aim of returning to its roots by ‘‘bringing the country to town’’.
President Ralph Evans said the show was focused on representing the diversity of our whole community by fostering education, inclusion, and understanding.
‘‘The granting of charitable status is a clear recognition of the place the show has in the Waikato, and its contribution to promoting a broader sense of community,’’ Evans said.
‘‘Through the hard work of many people; the staff, the Waikato Winter Show Association and our community partners, the show has continued to grow and develop into an ever more valuable community asset.’’
Show general manager Carina Dooley said she was excited that the show’s success was clearly demonstrated by rising numbers attending, larger numbers of exhibitors, more partner groups and, now, the granting of charitable status.
‘‘Charitable status recognises all the hard work we have put in to reinvigorate the show and reconnect with the varied community that we serve here in Hamilton and the Waikato.’’
Dooley said the Waikato Show now had more than 15,000 people attending over the three days.
‘‘Next year’s show is shaping up to be even larger, with extra exhibitors, more things to see and do, greater opportunities for community networking and bigger community involvement.’’
The next Waikato Show will be on April 7-9, 2017.