Attractions for town and country folk at Otago Field Days

UP TO 7000 people are expected to enjoy a slice of country life at Otago Field Days from today.

The field days are being held for the third time, having sprung up in 2016 as a new initiative from the Palmerston and Waihemo A&P Association.

They were initially called the East Otago Field Days.

While Palmerston and Waihemo A&P Association president Garry Dodd said no changes had been made to the traditional format, but a ‘‘green corner’’ to showcase renewable energy sources, riparian planting and other practices to enhance the environment had been introduced.

All exhibitor sites had been sold. There were about 180, up from 160 last year and 103 in 2016.

Mr Dodd said there was something to interest everyone at the event, being held at the Palmerston Saleyards, alongside State Highway 85 west of Palmerston, for the second time after previously being staged at the Palmerston showgrounds.

‘‘It’s a good, general lineup of exhibitors really. It’s very similar to last year and the year before.’’

Between 5000 and 7000 people were expected to attend.

Mr Dodd said the decision to hold the event on Friday and Saturday rather than Saturday and Sunday was one the organising committee was comfortable with.

It was hoped the format would attract people from the area, as well as those from further afield.

‘‘We have a sort of a local day on the Friday and on the Saturday, everyone is welcome. It brings the town and country together.’’

He anticipated the event would continue to grow year on year.

The Otago Field Days take place today and tomorrow.