A&P show has focus on kids

There will be plenty on offer for kids at the annual Rotorua A&P Show.

Rural folk have polished up their boots and dusted off their hats and they're bringing all the drama and action from the country into Ngongotaha this weekend.

The annual Rotorua A&P Show is not just a one-trick pony, and new events have been planned to make the event a real crowd pleaser, said secretary Lyn Tetenburg.

One of the new events is the Strong Man Competition that will see the strongest men in Rotorua put through their paces with a variety of heavy lifting duties to entertain the masses.

Another focus this year is to include kids in as many ways as possible. A petting zoo, donkey and pony rides have been organised to get children interacting with the animals.

"We've brought more animals in for the children so they can get up close, and see animals are not just a five-minute job, they require care and nurturing," Mrs Tetenburg said.

"Other new events are Doug the Digger, which will give kids the chance to have a go on a digger in a controlled environment, and bumper ball where they will put giant zorb type balls on themselves and run at each other."

The King and Queen of the Mountain has had a re-vamp this year, and more competitors from around the wider Bay of Plenty will be attempting to conquer the mountain.

"As well as the more experienced runners, this year we are also trying to encourage new runners and a course has been set up especially for them that only goes part way up the mountain," said Mrs Tetenburg.

The search for the quickest and best wood choppers and sheep shearers in the country continues, as the A&P Show is part of their national circuits.

And, as usual, farmers from around Rotorua will be bringing their biggest and best livestock including dairy, beef, alpaca and goats to be judged. They will also be competing in sheep dog trials, which is always a firm favourite with the crowds.

A variety of equestrian competitions would be held during the weekend and miniature horses would also be competing in an obstacle course, said Mrs Tetenburg.

The fluffiest members of the police force will be on duty when the police dog handlers bring out their dogs for a display.

Details:

* What: Rotorua A&P Show

* When:Tomorrow and Sunday, 8.30am - 5pm

* Where: Rotorua A&P Showgrounds, 141 Western Rd, Ngongotaha

* Tickets: Adult: $10, children under 16 free