A shaved head for charity, young women doing daring tricks on a horse and strongmen tossing giant stones across a field were just a few of the attractions on offer at Katikati's 89th A&P show at the weekend.
The sun was shining and people were out in force on Sunday, with
2500 turning out for a day of entertainment at the Uretara Domain.
Secretary of the Katikati A&P Society Anne Howard said "a wonderful crowd" had turned out for the occasion and several new attractions made up for the loss of the Axemen's Carnival which had previously always been a massive hit.
"We miss the choppers, some people come just for the chopping, but I think we have managed to fill the gap," she said.
She said they had been very lucky with the weather and the turnout reflected the beautiful day.
The lineup of several community group displays, including cricket and wrestling, was a positive addition too, she said.
"It's nice to see all the community groups turning out, showing what they can do for the young people," she said.
Unfortunately the highly anticipated new attraction of the mechanical bull could not go operational on the day due to electrical problems.
For the first time this year there were young female pipers playing music for performers in the Irish dancing section of the show.
Kimberly Amrein, 16, and Nicola Dunnery, 14, piped for eachother's events as they both dance as well.
Irish dance teacher Tina Peet said it was a great achievement for the girls who, though nervous, pulled off their songs without a hitch.
Another popular event was the cow milking event, with both experienced milkers and amateurs giving it a go in the hope of winning a cash prize.
Also pulling a curious crowd of onlookers was brave Beth Scarrow, 16, who shaved her head for charity CanTeen just after midday.
Despite her apprehension, she went through with it, her father doing the deed with scissors and clippers, and she was still feeling positive afterward.
"I can feel the sun on my head - it's weird," she said.
