Showgrounds buzzing at Wairoa A&P Show

Masha Clark, 7, from Gisborne, enjoys a ride on the chair-o-plane at the Wairoa A and P Show today. Photo/Duncan Brown

Wairoa's showgrounds were buzzing with excited families enjoying animals, food and all things farming this afternoon.

The final day of the 116th Wairoa A and P Show, which started on Thursday, was held today with thousands of people having a taste of shearing, rodeo, showjumping, bouncy castles, bucking bulls and more.

Gina Hajnal, of Raupunga, said her grandchildren had a lovely day and especially liked the food and rides.

"The shearing is really fun to watch."

She had also enjoyed bumping into people she hadn't seen in ages, Ms Hajnal said.

"It's a great family day out."

Sonia Howard, of Frasertown, said she tries to come every year to support Wairoa and have a fun day.

Her one-year-old granddaughter came with her this year and they both enjoyed watching the showjumping together.

"It's also nice to meet people here too.

"It's great to see a lot of people you don't run into in town and of course the animals."

The layout, events, entertainment and stalls were fantastic this year, she said.

Cody Price, who farms near Wairoa, said he came with his family to support the district and even entered in the shearing.

"I got in the local final.

"I also came and helped out on Thursday."

His partner, Rebecca Stone, said she is from the area so used to come to the show regularly and will be coming back every year now she lives here again.

The rodeo was probably the most exciting part of the day but the whole event was wonderful, she said.

Diana Potter and Theodora Horsefall, 10, of Wellington, visit the show each year while holidaying in Mahia.

Theodora said her favourite part is the horses as she loves watching them and has just started learning to ride herself.

She also liked the stalls and bought an abundance of delicious lollies.

Mr Potter said she liked the entertainment more this year and always enjoyed the fun family day out.

Events this year have included the equestrian dressage competition, dog-trials, a "Rural Iron Man" competition, home industries, a scarecrow competition, a sheep section, rodeo, shearing and showjumping.

Entertainment included Lulu the Clown, bouncy castles, a mechanical bull and a vertical bungy.

Pony rides have also made a return to the show after several years' absence.