Fenton Wilson puts up a sign for the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo, described as a must-go for all those in the rural sector. It runs on Wednesday and Thursday at the Wairoa Racecourse.
Fenton Wilson puts up a sign for the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo, described as a must-go for all those in the rural sector. It runs on Wednesday and Thursday at the Wairoa Racecourse.
One of the most anticipated events in the sheep and beef industry in this region – the East Coast Farming Expo – starts on Wednesday.
Event manager Sue Wilson said the expo will bring together a raft of experts, guest speakers, technology, entertainment and opportunities for the two-day gathering atthe Wairoa Racecourse.
“There’s a wide variety of agri-businesses exhibiting – from farm equipment to virtual fencing collars, communications, animal health products, IT products and more,” Wilson said.
“The demonstrations are always popular and this year include drones, fencing and dogs.”
“People can have mole checks, general health checks, including blood pressure, and even chat to mental health experts.
"The feedback we always get from those who come to it is always so positive," East Coast Farm Expo manager Sue Wilson said.
“So many of our rural folk don’t prioritise getting off the farm for those check-ups and having a range of people here at the expo to do that makes perfect sense.
“In past years, some of these check-ups have uncovered potentially serious health risks and farmers have been encouraged to head to their GPs for follow-up.”
Champion boxer, mentor and inspirational speaker Shane Cameron will be top billing at the Property Brokers Evening Muster.
“It’s a bit of a homecoming for the Mountain Warrior, whose stories from the canvas and real world will be both entertaining, insightful and interesting,” Wilson said.
The seminar schedule will feature a collection of speakers covering topical issues, “burning” questions, panel discussions, science, succession, health, everyday issues on farms and more.
“We think it is important to bring the issues of today to our expo, so our farmers can get top-notch advice, a better understanding of things and feel the support that is out there for them,” Wilson said.
The two challenges – the Beef + Lamb Station Challenge and Rural News Cadet Challenge – will be as fun as they are serious competition
“These are meant to be a laugh, but are also a chance for young farmers to learn, for others to see them in action and encourage them along in the industry,” Wilson said.
“Humourist Te Radar is the MC for the event and is always entertaining with his take on the world.
“Our team are proud of the expo. The feedback we always get from those who come to it is always so positive.”
The Wairoa Community Development Trust is delivering the event.
“Their goal is simple – to enhance the rural social landscape and contribute to a thriving and vibrant region, and they do that wherever they can," Wilson said.
Trust chair Sefton Alexander said the trust knew and understood the rural landscape and enjoyed celebrating the innovation, talent and people of the East Coast.
