The Northland Regional Council’s penchant for turning pest species into tasty treats has become a popular fixture at the annual Northland Field Days.
Last year, council staff served up Tex‑Mex wallaby quesadillas with parmesan mayonnaise; this year – the event’s 40th anniversary – mini goat pies are on themenu.
Whangārei’s Charlies Bakery will use about 20kg of goat meat sourced from Premium Game in Blenheim to create about 1500 mini pies for NRC staff to serve visitors during the February 26-28 event at Dargaville. Anyone keen to try one can find them at the NRC’s marquee on sites 11 and 12.
He says feral goats cause substantial damage to native ecosystems, contribute to erosion and negatively affect agriculture and forestry. NRC and the Department of Conservation consider them major pests and are working to reduce their numbers.
NRC’s marquee will also feature displays on key biosecurity threats, including Madagascar ragwort and the invasive freshwater clam, alongside displays on pest plants and animals, biodiversity, climate action and land management.
The field days mark a major milestone this year - the 40th anniversary of what is now Northland’s largest agricultural showcase with over 400 exhibitors spanning farming technology, machinery, lifestyle products, entertainment and family activities.
To celebrate the milestone, organisers are giving free entry to40-year-olds who can prove their age with photo ID.
Gates are open between 9am and 4pm on Thursday and Friday, and 9am and 3.30pm on Saturday.
Based on previous years’ figures, about 25,000 visitors are expected across the three days to explore a packed programme including sheepdog trials, tractor pull challenges, lawnmower racing, kids’ entertainment zones, Mini Mack rides, laser clay shooting and more, spread across multiple activity sites.
Northland Regional Council continues its annual field days tradition of highlighting pest species through edible treats - this year, with goat pies. Photo / NRC
Every field day visitor automatically goes into the draw for the annual gate prizes, which this year include either an outboard motor or a quad bike, a fishing trip for two to Niue, and a prize pack made up of products from numerous show sponsor exhibitors.
Prizes of up to $500 are at stake for winners in a silage bale painting competition.
General event information includes a strict no‑dogs policy except for authorised assistance dogs; designated disabled parking close to the site for vehicles displaying an official permit; three disabled toilets, including a centrally located one accessible via NRC’s headquarters building; and mobility scooter hire, which can be booked through Scooterworks, with drop‑off available at the disabled car park.
Sarah Curtis is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on a wide range of issues. She has nearly 20 years’ experience in journalism, most of which she spent court reporting in Gisborne and on the East Coast.
