Fun guaranteed, even with mud

Organisers hope to dodge last year’s biblical deluge but, hey, come regardless

The committee organising the 127th annual Northern Wairoa A&P Association show at Arapohue on Saturday is confident its attractions have universal appeal.

And as association president Richard Alspach says, the weather could hardly be worse than it was last year, so hopefully the showgrounds will be dry underfoot.

At least 50mm of rain hit the 2018 show, but those who braved the deep mud the deluge produced are believed to have thoroughly enjoyed themselves, a testimony to the country charm of the events at the agricultural show with 19th-century origins.

Alspach said this year’s show would have several new features and improved old ones. All the signs were for a successful show, with something for everyone.

The major new feature was the inclusion of the full range of Young Farmer competitions for juniors aged 4-8, Agri-Kids with entrants 8-13 and 13-18, and an inter-club competition between Young Farmer clubs in the North. These competitions were expected to be a real crowd pleaser, while demonstrating in a fun way some of the skills required in an agricultural career.

The Agri-Kids competition will feature teams of three contesting a series of modules designed to test their knowledge and skills. Sponsors provide prizes and entry is free. While entries will be taken on the day, it would be best to enter your team before the day, as there will be a limit of just 18 teams. Call Neville Collins 09-439-6477.

The committee was particularly pleased about side shows being available for just a gold coin donation. This had been made possible because of generous sponsorship by Pub Charities, and would makes coming to the show an affordable outing for the whole family.

The committee was also delighted that once again the ANZ Bank are sponsoring the ANZ Northland Shearing Competition, of which Arapohue is a participating show. Being part of this competition ensures a bigger entry of shearers from across a broader section of the country, resulting in exciting shearing, a must-see for spectators..

There will be six horse rings running, including mini-horses. Vintage cars will be on show, there will be an off-road vehicle competition, and of course the ever popular indoor section.

The show is billed as a genuine celebration of everything good and positive about rural communities and their place in the economy, and it promises to be great fun. ■

Left, a tractor tows a ute and horse float through mud at the showgrounds entrance last year.

From top, show attractions include equestrian, some cool entertainment, and the ANZ Northland Shearing Competition, which is expected to be hotly contested at Arapohue.