Fieldays' rural bachelor of the year Mark Woodcock says the drought in his area is definitely of a feminine nature. The 34-year-old manages a 405ha family beef farm in remote Pouto Point, Northland.
"We've got a woman drought there. It seems to be hard finding the perfect woman."
Heats designed to test rural prowess and bachelor eligibility included a race to assemble a wheelbarrow to transport a cheerleader.
Woodcock, who listed his hobbies as motorsport, hunting and fishing, said the competition was physical and nerve-racking. "The most embarrassing thing for me was the African gumboot dance: I was definitely the biggest loser."
Woodcock's prize for beating seven other finalists included the Golden Gumboot trophy, $5000, a trip for two to the Cook Islands, farming equipment and beer.
He reckons his easygoing, capable and confident manner clinched him the title. His competition profile lists his ideal date as starting with an afternoon of action, such as bungy jumping or going to Rainbow's End, followed by fish and chips at the beach, watching the sunset and drinking wine.
