Cracker of a day at Whangamomona

The events would have been a bit of shock to the system for more than 5000 people who flocked to Whangamomona on Saturday to celebrate the township's 1989 declaration of independence.
People from all over the North Island, including about 1000 who arrived by train from Auckland, Palmerston North and Hamilton were given a taste of proper kiwi country behaviour.
With a population of just 40, the influx of visitors was always going to create a stir, and the locals rose to the occasion superbly, presenting them with coat-wearing sheep, near-naked runners and a scandal-fuelled presidential campaign.
Entry to the town was blocked at both ends to make way for sheep races, several of the animals bounding down the tarseal to victory, much to the delight of punters who had placed bets.
The physically demanding gutbuster challenged several of the town's locals and many brave outsiders, competitors donning g-strings to give the event a bit of kick.
Thankfully the majority of them were worn on the outside of clothing.
The biggest intrigue of the day was the race to claim presidency. Murt Kennard thought he would have an easy run of it, but two late entries put a dampener on keeping his title.
Former president Ian Kjestrup and Whanga the goat decided to stand against Murt on the day, much to the angst of his supportors who took to wearing signs sporting the slogan 'Dont vote for kessie, the goat's a lessie, Murt for pressie' which really stepped the drama up a notch. Murt's popularity proved to be too great for his competitors and he managed to reclaim his authority, but not before there was a minor kidnapping incident.
Thankfully Murt's bodyguards were on hand to rescue him. His first action as re-elected president was to organise a street party for the young people of the township.
The day's major activities were interspersed with all things rural, whip-cracking, gumboot throwing, dog trial demonstrations, possum skinning and tug-o-war competitions.
Thanks to the efforts of the organising committee and the support of the Stratford district, the town was at full capacity and the range of visitors was immense. People were spotted in spandex, leather, pearls and military attire, sourcing a few looks from some bemused Aucklanders. All in all the day was a huge success, with only minor incidents throwing a spanner in the works. A wheel went missing from the horse cart and visitors had to go without ice-cream while Mr Whippy sorted out an issue with his generator.
Pictured: Thousands of people flocked to Whangamomona to celebrate their Republic day.