Waimarino Rodeo draws in crowds

William Spence in 2nd Division Saddle Bronc. Photo/ Bevan Conley

Crowds packed in early at Raetihi Showgrounds to catch the best glimpse of their favourite cowboys competing in the 68th Waimarino Rodeo.

The annual three-day event kicked off on Friday with the local events and rounded up on Sunday with top riders from all over New Zealand.

Sam Church in the 2nd Division Bull Ride. Photo/ Bevan Conley

Organiser Kath McLean said apart from a few cowboys getting crunched with minor injuries, everything was kept pretty tame.

"We pleased with the way everything ran. The crowd was enjoying it and it was just a really good weekend."

Waimarino shears at Raetihi Showgrounds. Photo/ Bevan Conley

The events consisted of calf rides, barrel races, steer rides and sheering contests.

Entry levels were high this year which meant a busy weekend.

Leeroy Church in the 2nd Division Bull Ride. Photo/ Bevan Conley