Prime minister Christopher Luxon has officially opened the Wānaka A&P Show 2025 with a short speech praising New Zealand farmers and produce, which he described as “the best in the world”.

The PM visited late this morning (Friday, March 7), as crowds began to swell on the opening day of the two-day annual show, which is expected to draw around 40,000 attendees in total.

As well as opening the show, the PM presented this year’s President’s Trophy - awarded to those who have given outstanding service to the Wānaka A&P Show - to the Young family.

The Home Industry section was bustling this morning with the winning selection of scones, flowers, quilts, photos and the like attracting large numbers.

A couple of tents down, the Local Larder - billed as a foodie destination showcasing top producers - filled fast when celebrity chef Peter Gordon held the first of four cooking demonstrations to take place across the show.

The Home Industries Tent.

Wood chopping, farrier and sheep shearing competitions got underway as well as livestock events and performances at the show’s two stages.

Winning blooms.

Stallholders at some of the 500+ trade stalls said they had had busy mornings but expected sales to continue to pick up into the afternoon and tomorrow.

The PM takes a selfie with young show-goers.

Saturday is traditionally the busiest day of the show and it will feature annual classics like the Jack Russell Race, Grand Parade, as well as a huge range of other events and entertainment.

The Children’s Carnival area.

Find more information and to book your tickets, click Wānaka A&P Show.

PHOTOS: Wānaka App