Who’d be a firefighter?

People go to the Kaitaia A&P show for all sorts of reasons. Some like the food and general atmosphere, some are horse fans, some like to show off their pets and some might like to look at the trade exhibits.

This year the association hopes there will be plenty of kids who fancy themselves as firefighters.

There are no plans to light a fire that will need putting out, but everyone from around 5 years up will be welcome to have a go at the Fire Fighter Combat Challenge, a test that only takes a minute or two to complete, all going well, but which tests participants’ aptitude and physical fitness.

It includes pulling a hose up a flight of stairs, hitting a target with a jet of water and dragging a heavy trolley to the finish line.

Everything would be weighted for youngsters, Kaitaia Station Officer Kay Ah Sam said, and everyone would be welcome to have a go, all day.

Less strenuous attractions will include a spectacular FMX team display (10.30am, noon and 1.30pm), a basketball challenge, a talent quest, an animal petting zoo, pony rides, kids’ hot rods, bouncy castles and all the traditional show elements, from horses and trade space to a pet section (with a pet parade at 12.30pm).

The showground gates will open at 9am, admission $5 for adults, $2 for children, preschoolers free.

The indoor competition entries will be open to the public at Te Ahu from 1pm to 4pm on Friday and 9am to 3pm on Saturday.