Rotorua A&P Show draws crowds from far and wide

From the smells of sausage sizzles, farm animals and tractor fumes to the sounds of hooves clomping and kids giggling, the Rotorua A&P show hosted everything rural and more.

Today's one day show at the Agrodome included axemen competitions, a playground, games, equestrian events, the Ngongotahā King and Queen of the Mountain running race, highland dancing, trade sites, food sites, and military vehicles.

The sun was out, but light southwesterlies ensured the temperature did not climb higher than 22C.

The McFadden family, from Rotorua, said this year's show was better than last year's.

Melanie, mother of Poppy, 2, and Jack, 4, said the bouncy castle had been a big hit.

"We also went on the Jeeps, looked at the Minis and tractors, and went for a ride on Sparky the fire engine, before grabbing some lunch. We've had a few chips on the ground but that's all part of it.

"We love animals so we're off to the petting zoo soon."

She said the free entry for kids was a great initiative.

Tina and Ernie Styles were up from Timaru visiting family when they heard about the show.

"The people here are relaxed, friendly, and it's a really good venue with lots for the children to do," Tina said.

"We spent a lot of time looking at the alpacas, then we came here to the wood chopping. It's amazing how quick these competitors are. They're very strong."

The Ngongotahā Venturers' Club hosted one of the show's most popular thrills - a plate smashing tent.

Competitors paid to throw golf balls at the plates labelled with names of public figures.

Everyone from Trump to Jacinda Ardern, David Seymour, Todd McClay, Tamati Coffey, 'Aussies' and Piers Morgan was a target.

Players could even customise plates with siblings, teachers or bosses.

Kate Urquhart, 16, helped lead the fundraiser.

"We got the plates from op shops and thought the names up on the spot... We've had more and more people come as the day has gone on which has been good."

The group hoped to also draw MPs to have a shot at their opposition colleagues.

Laura Purves, 12, came from Te Awamutu with her family, to compete in five Highland dancing events.

"It's been a hot day but I've had a lot of fun getting on stage with my friends."

Rotorua A&P Association president Heather Brake said all the sites had been busy and all the attendees appeared happy.

The committee began organising the show 11 months ago, and "the last month was all go".

"This week we've had members here every day setting up."

Brake's been involved in shearing competitions for more than 25 years and joined the committee 15 years ago.

She said she continued to help out because she loved "seeing everybody happy".

"It's also great to keep the association and show going when some are dying out these days."

Cattle were the only missing feature this year.

Their absence at A&P shows has been enforced across New Zealand as the Ministry for Primary Industries works to eradicate Mycoplasma bovis.

Tomorrow, only axemen competitions, shearing, wool handling, and Western riding will remain at the Agrodome.

Entry is free to watch these events and the last of the Western riding is on Monday.