Taihape Gumboot Day roaring success again

Racing rucked into sacks on Taihape Gumboot Day. Photo/Michelle Fannin

A "humdinger" of a successful Taihape Gumboot Day has had the town buzzing all week.

A huge bouquet of flowers was delivered to the organiser, community board chairwoman Michelle Fannin, thanking her for all the innovative activities.

"I'm tired, happy and thrilled it was such an amazing day. I loved seeing so many families here with their kids. Not charging a gate price was good. It was simply a donation, which helps our families."

The Big Dig Pit of sawdust was a huge hit with the under 8-year-old kids, she said.

"They loved finding a token for a prize, and one little girl was ecstatic when she drew the big one -- a brand new bike. I was so excited all day that I think I cried at least three times."

Activities included a prize dig, gumboot planking and throwing the egg.

And, of course, the highlight was the gumboot-tossing competition.

There had been renewed interest in the gumboot-throwing event this year, she said.

New features included the dig and Taihape Rocks.

There were 35 stallholders, with stalls fanned out around the memorial park, selling everything from drinks and food to crafts and bric-a-brac.

And the crowd came through 1500-strong.

"There really was something for everyone.The AMP show in January didn't even come close," she said.

Many people admired the efficiency of the team helping the organisers.

"So many people asked us who they were. Well, we borrowed them. They were the Rover Scouts from Marton, and they were so fabulous everyone noticed. Just so polite and helpful, just amazing."

The actual gumboot-throwing competition had children's, youth, open and masters divisions.

But the day was so good it didn't end till late after trying to get through all the events. The egg throwing and catching competition was popular, along with the Ronald McDonald Show and the Human Dog Barking Competition, with many return competitors.

This coming weekend are the rural New Zealand Games in Palmerston North and the champ gummie throwers will be there to show their prowess.

"It was hard work, but it was a huge success. Now we're busy planning next year's great day."