About 45,000 people attended the two-day Wanaka A&P Show - the largest lifestyle event in the South Island - this weekend, organisers have confirmed.

An economically critical event that injects more than $11 million into the local economy each year, the Wanaka Show brings rural and urban communities together for two days of fun and entertainment.

“I think I can speak on behalf of the wider Upper Clutha community that we were very, very fortunate to be able to proceed with the Wanaka A&P Show this year and we are absolutely thrilled with the turnout,” show event manager Jane Stalker said.

“It means so much to us to be able to bring this incredible event to the Upper Clutha after a very challenging 12 months not only our farmers but for everyone in the community.

The Grand Parade is a highlight of the Wanaka A&P Show PHOTO: Wanaka App

“The show has provided an opportunity for us to be able to support the small businesses who travel to us from all over New Zealand, and it was fantastic seeing our local motels and restaurants buzzing again.”

Many months of planning went into this year’s show (the 84th), with new challenges presented this year due to the introduction and management of Covid-19 regulations.

Jane said the team is thrilled to have delivered a well-organised and successful event that adhered to health and safety guidelines.

“The show would not have gone ahead if it wasn’t for our wonderful trade exhibitors, sponsors and funders and we are grateful for their continued support.”

CoCo Flash and Erika with Runway wearable arts entrants from Holy Family Catholic School PHOTO: Supplied

This year’s show also saw the introduction of Cheers Wanaka, a community give-back initiative whereby $1 from every adult ticket sold at the gate is paid forward to a local non-profit organisation. Money raised through Cheers Wanaka is currently being totalled and will be made public as soon as possible.

The number of trade exhibitors at the showgrounds this year was 520, up on previous years.

Sheep entries were significantly up on last year, with 260 entries and 180 fleeces (the biggest ever for fleece entries). Horse entries were on par with last year, with 1700 entries (260 horses participating). The number of cattle entries was 64, and 64 dog triallists (64 dogs). 

Livestock, which came to the show from around the South Island, continued to be of a high calibre. Seventy-seven dogs competed in the world-famous Jack Russell race, with first place being awarded to Harry, owned by Samara Buchanan of Cromwell.

“The feedback over the past two days has been fantastic,” Jane said. “The delightful Hilary Barry was definitely a highlight, as were drag queens CoCo Flash and Erika – who celebrated diversity and inclusiveness in their wonderful flamboyant way. The inaugural Runway wearable arts competition was also a hit and we got to see some incredible creations in the fashion show.

“Overall, it’s been another sensational event and we thank everyone who attended and helped make the Show a success, from the stall holders to the volunteers, competitors and wider Upper Clutha community.”

Next year’s Wanaka A&P Show will be held on March 11-12, 2022.