The 104th annual CHB A&P Show begins today and continues through to Saturday.
There is free entry through the gates of the Waipukurau Showgrounds today and tomorrow for people to enjoy the opening two days of the dog trials, dressage and showjumping before the main show day on Saturday.
CHB A&P Society president Chris Menzies expected more than 4000 people to visit the showgrounds over the three days.
"People like it because of its rural atmosphere. It's got a stronger rural connection than some of the larger shows."
The theme for this year's show is innovation and Menzies said an innovative event on Saturday would be the wakeboarding demonstrations in Russell Park on two 20m-long, 8m-wide pools. A large rail between the two pools and an electric winch enable the wakeboarders to jump between the pools.
"There'll be seven or eight wakeboarders from around the country there, throwing down on the day and entertaining the crowd. Most of these guys compete on the national circuit so they've got an array of tricks."
Other highlights on Saturday will include the shearing and wool handling competitions, trade exhibits, vintage cars and machinery displays, competition cars and stockcars, highland dancing displays, a children's zoo, terrier racing, and the Top Team Challenge.
Once again the country's biggest amusement ride operator, Waikato-based Mahon's Amusements, will provide the fun and games at sideshow alley.
The show ends on Saturday night with the bull riding event beginning at 6pm and running through to 9.30pm, with all the action shown on a big outdoor screen.
The show isn't just for entertainment either, it's full of informative displays. Tomorrow the HB Cancer Society is bringing its 'Colossal Colon' to the show, an interactive experience with a difference, and on Saturday the CHB Safe Communities precinct will have representatives and information from Red Cross, Plunket, Civil Defence, the Fire Service and Ivan the Caravan.
Co-ordinator Christine Renata said she hoped people would take advantage of the chance to get so much safe living advice in one spot.
"You'll be safe to pop in and see us" she assured.