New Zealand's oldest country show is celebrating its 170th birthday this weekend.
The Bay of Islands Pastoral and Industrial Show is being held at the Waimate North showgrounds, between Kerikeri and Kaikohe, on Saturday.
The show, which last year drew a record 10,000-plus crowd, combines classic country show attractions such as livestock displays and indoor hall competitions with a talent quest and funfair rides.
As in previous years a giant marquee will house a food and wine festival, Savouring the Source, which showcases top Northland wineries and gourmet producers. Celebrity chef Paul Jobin and à Deco's Brenton Lowe will hold cooking demonstrations while chefs of the future will compete in the Kids can Cook contest.
A talent quest will pick the finalists for Kerikeri's Be Free Festival in February, while the day's competitions culminate in a grand parade for all livestock and equestrian winners at 3.30pm.
