Best of Wanaka on display to 45,000 visitors

Axemen Grant Campbell (front) and John Broughton go head-to-head in a standing block cut during a wood chopping display. Photos/Tim Miller

Another year, another record attendance at the Wanaka A&P Show.

Now in its 80th year, the event attracted 45,000 rural folk and city slickers, with a few wide-eyed tourists mixed in.

That was 5000 more than the record set last year.

Those not acquainted with rural life kept a close eye on the ground, trying to dodge any surprises left by one of the more than 2000 cattle, sheep, goats and horses which took part in the show.

Sheep shearing, wood chopping, candy floss, carnival rides, perfectly grown produce and everything else agricultural and pastoral were on display at the two-day event.

Former Dipton farmer and now Prime Minister of New Zealand Bill English was on hand to officially open the show.

Mr English applauded the skills, attitudes and the people at the show and said it was those attributes which gave New Zealand its edge in selling itself to the world.

''This is a fantastic occasion because it celebrates the long and deep culture of success and primary production in New Zealand.''

Mr English spent more than two hours at the show chatting with supporters, posing for selfies and judging the show's very popular Jack Russell race.

The Topp Twins, Lynda and Jools, proved to be a hit on both days. Each of their four shows attracted more than 300 fans.

Show co-ordinator Jane Stalker said the show was a tremendous success.

''It's been a fantastic couple of days and we've hosted visitors from all around New Zealand, many of whom have come specifically for the show,'' Mrs Stalker said.

Held at the Wanaka Showgrounds each year, the show was one of the largest agricultural events in New Zealand, bringing more than $10million into Wanaka and the surrounding area each year.

The continuing support from the Upper Clutha community was also wonderful, Mrs Stalker said.