Rotorua Home Show: Flying start on show's first day

Kiara Funnell had so much fun at the Rotorua Daily Post Home and Leisure Show's first day she would spend all weekend there if she could.

The 8-year-old was there yesterday with mum Dr Margie Bishop-Funnell as the show welcomed hundreds of people through the doors.

"The rocking horses are my favourite," Kiara said. "Their hair feels really soft and I had a ride on one which was fun. The jellybeans are cool too. I've had their candy before."

Kiara's parents own Funnell Family Chiropractic, and their stand at the show this year happens to be opposite the Skyline Rotorua stand, with its Jelly Belly candy.

Dr Bishop-Funnell said they were looking forward to two more busy days.

"It's school holidays and Kiara asked if she could come for the day so she's been hanging out with us.

"We've had a good look around at the other exhibitors."

She said their stand had also been busy. "We've had visits from previous patients. I really enjoy it, we get to talk to the community about the benefits of seeing a chiropractor. It's a great way of explaining what we do and we give free spinal checks."

Daily Post advertising manager Janine Davy said the opening day had been a resounding success with plenty of excitement among visitors and exhibitors. "There was standing room only at the cooking demonstrations," she said.

"Cooking shows are popular at the moment and Peter Blakeway is also very popular. He's been answering questions and he's got among the audience to show people how to do things."

She said visitor numbers were up on opening day last year with a steady stream throughout the day. The show is open today and tomorrow from 10am to 5pm and 10am to 4pm.