A touch of artistry and a competitive streak combined for the win at Dunedin’s Forbury Park Raceway over the weekend.
But it was daffodils, not reinsmen, delivering the results at the Dunedin Horticultural Society’s annual spring show.
Society president Joy Morton said the show had been "overwhelmed" by about 500 entries — a record number — in its 165th year.
The event showcased a range of daffodils, camellias and other spring flowers, as well as bonsai and floral art.
Top spot was taken out by Winton man Bill Cowie, whose "Kurrewa" daffodil was named Champion of Champions.
But equally encouraging was the record turnout, which saw people coming from as far afield as Winton, Timaru "and everywhere else in between" for the show, she said.
The interest was "really great" and reflected the cold start to spring, which meant daffodils were still in full bloom, she said.
It also reflected the continuing interest in the society and the artistry and competitiveness required to take part, she said.
"I would think we have all got a competitive streak in us, but also it’s showing people’s ability to be growing top-quality flowers.
"Isn’t it lovely to show off the flowers you grow?"
The society was among the oldest in the country and membership remained steady.
"We are getting new members coming in and we are very positive about our future," she said.
