Bark Up returns to Pongaroa

If the dog won't bark, then the owner has to step in and bark instead, which is cause for much hilarity.

Pongaroa's annual Bark Up competition is on again outside the Pongaroa Tavern on Route 52 this Friday, October 20.

Shepherds and farmers from the wider district come along and bring their huntaways or their pet dog to compete in different categories for the Bark Up.

Getting up on stage, the dogs and their owners are awarded prizes for the best bark. There are category prizes plus two $1000 spot prizes to be won.

Seen at last year's bark up.

However, if the dog won't bark, then the owner has to step in and bark instead, which is cause for much hilarity. This happened last year, with some owners producing convincing barks.

Puketoi Young Farmers Club chairman Jeremy Lawson is the event organiser. There were close to 100 competitors with 80 dogs last year coming from as far as Taihape, Gisborne and Hawke's Bay.

"It's putting Pongaroa on the map," said Jeremy. "It should be a good night. It will give a break from docking and is a great way to kick off summer."

Registration starts at 6pm, and there will be three judges using electronic scoring.

Travellers will be able to top up with fuel at Pongaroa's newly opened Fuel Stop.

"The food is really good at the Pongaroa Tavern - you won't go hungry with a selection of fish and chips, burgers or a steak meal," said Jeremy.