Today (Thursday February 8) marks just one month until Wānaka’s annual A&P Show, one of New Zealand’s largest agricultural and pastoral shows and a beloved local event.

The upcoming show, taking place on March 8-9, will feature traditional events from wool classing and wood chopping to novelty favourites like the Jack Russell Race and sheaf tossing.

There are also equestrian events, farm animal competitions, food and wine, hundreds of stalls and live entertainment, which together draw more than 44,000 people to the Wānaka Showgrounds each year.

“The preparations for the upcoming show are in full swing, and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone,” show general manager Jane Stalker told the Wānaka App.

“We have plenty on this year: we're introducing the new Farmlands Farmyard and have a reimagined Rural Village featuring the beloved farriers, sheep shearing, goats, and wood chopping displays. 

“And, of course, the Topp Twins will join us on Saturday."

It takes a village to make the A&P Show happen each year and this year there are four new team members helping Jane bring the event to life.

New behind the scenes this year is trade coordinator Maria Ottley, who manages everything to do with the 513 trade sites.

The team’s new financial officer is Anne McLeod, who has been reconciling all the trade applications, home industry and livestock entries, memberships and ticket sales roles.

Alysia Cole is the new volunteer manager and event assistant: she manages all 201 volunteers and community groups. Alysia said there are still a few volunteer positions open in various roles. 

If anyone is keen to support the community in this way they can email Alysia at [email protected].

Penny Bell is the new digital communications and event coordinator.

The new members join Jane and livestock manager Fe Howie.

The Wānaka A&P Show will take place at the Wānaka Showgrounds on March 8-9.

PHOTO: Wānaka App