Twists spice up this year's Summer Show

Whangarei A&P show manager Malcolm McKerrow gets ready for this year's Summer Show. Photo / John Stone

Strong men and cute animals are just some of the new attractions this year's Whangarei show will bring.

The annual Agricultural and Pastoral Society Summer Show is being held on Saturday and Sunday at Barge Showgrounds.

Show manager Malcolm McKerrow said with new attractions and the return of some old ones, this year's show will be one of the most balanced they've had.

Some of the latest attractions included the Northland Strong Man Competition, where men will put their strength to test in events such as the Farmers Walk where contestants carry a pair of 100kg weights 50 metres in the fastest time.

"The strong man event is something different and blokey. From the feedback we received from surveys we do, there was a lot of comments saying there was stuff to do with for kids and mum but not much for the men."

The last time a Strong Man competition was held at the show was 12 years ago with Marc Ellis and Matthew Ridge.

While the show has always provided an opportunity to showcase livestock, this year the smaller animals will get a chance to show off.

The Northland Cavy and Rabbit Club is holding a show for guinea pigs, rabbits, mice and rats with competitors from 18 months to 82 years old all bringing their pets along.

"We've seen clips of the animals and I won't say they're well polished but they're well groomed and shampooed and conditioned and it's going to be great for the kids."

Another act the kids will enjoy is the return of the BJ Bear Show.

Other events include cattle competitions, jousting, performances from bands and more.

-The event runs from 9.30am-5pm on Saturday and 9.30am-4pm on Sunday. Entry is $8 for adults and children aged 6 and over and free for children 5 and under.