Paul Ego to headline comedy shows aimed at farmers in Taranaki

Paul Ego

Comedian Paul Ego is set to headline an event in Taranaki designed to get farmers off their farms and laughing.

Farmstrong has announced plans to hold five further comedy shows across New Zealand following its first sell-out show in the Waikato.

The Taranaki comedy night will be held at the Kapuni War Memorial Hall near Hawera on Saturday, October 6.

"This is exciting news," says Central Taranaki Young Farmers member Jessie Waite.

"Lambing will be finished and it's just before most dairy farmers start mating, so it's a great time to get off farm for a night and recharge the batteries."

The Taranaki comedy show will feature popular comedians Paul Ego, Justine Smith, Tevita Manukia and Darren Jardine.

"This event is for farmers, young and old, rural professionals and supporters of the rural community," says Michelle Stevens from Farmstrong.

"Our first comedy night in the Waikato was a huge hit. People really appreciate being able to switch off for a few hours and have a laugh."

The show's being supported by the Rural Support Trust, alongside Farmstrong and NZ Young Farmers.

"Farmstrong promotes rural wellness and shares simple tips and advice on looking after yourself," says Michelle.

"Bringing communities together at events like this is one of the ways we can do that."
NZ Young Farmers is helping to organise the event.

Figures released last month by the Chief Coroner reveal New Zealand's suicide rate has risen for the fourth year in a row.

? Farmstrong comedy nights are also being held in Whangarei, central Hawke's Bay, Winton and the Maniototo in early November.

Tickets are available by visiting www.youngfarmers.co.nz/nzyf. Tickets are $20 each, with all proceeds going directly to Farmstrong.