Poverty Bay’s 150th A&P Show ‘coming together beautifully’

The organisers of the Spring Show to mark the 150th anniversary of the Poverty Bay A&P Association in mid-October reckon their preparations have come along beautifully for the event. Photo / Murray Robertson

Preparations continue at pace for the celebration of the 150th Poverty Bay A&P ‘Spring Show’ next month.

In the words of A&P Association general manager Lana Davy - “it’s coming together beautifully”.

Trade space for the milestone event on October 17-18 has almost all gone.

“It’s just about chock-a-block, with less than five spots still available in the whole ground.

“We’ve had high demand this year and lots of new exhibitors looking to come to the show for the first time,” she said.

The organisers have made some changes to the Trades layout across the Showgrounds Park this year.

“We want to encourage the public to take a good look at what’s there,” Davy said.

The various stock and rural community events at the Show will likely draw another big entry. Photo / Murray Robertson

Entries have closed in a number of show competitions, including the Tux ‘Yarding Challenge’, sponsored by Tahurau Earthmovers.

“There are more than 200 entries in the dog trials.”

That event starts on October 15.

“Home Industries had a massive uptake in entries this year,” she said.

Equestrian entries look very healthy and will close nearer to the show date.

Dairy goats and chopping entries closed with good entries, while National Dancing remains open until October 18.

"We look forward to an incredible event" - Lana Davy, general manager A&P Association.

The show will feature another big array of livestock competitions.

For example, the Old Season’s Lamb Muster will be a highlight of the show, bringing farmers together to showcase their very best ewe and wether lambs.

It’s on the Friday of the show, with pens filling from 7am and judging runs from 8am to 11am.

Competitors will aim for the closest carcass weight to 26kg - a test of skill, stockmanship, and preparation.

This competition will be a must-see for anyone who appreciates the tradition and talent behind quality stock.

It’s supported by Mangahauhau Hampshires.

“We have a lot of new competitions this year, including an excavator competition, log truck loading competition, and a farriers competition.

“Everything is coming together beautifully,” Davy said.

“It’s obviously a massive undertaking to put the show together every year, but this one is on steroids.

“We look forward to an incredible event.”