The sea of caravans bringing about 1500 adults, 26 young people and 126 pets, some from as far afield as Australia, are lined up in orderly rows on the Cromwell racecourse, with a large number of trades exhibits alongside.
It is estimated the travellers will inject more than $2 million into the local economy during their four-day stay.
Rally convener Jack Sheehan, of Ettrick, said many of the campers had travelled around the country for the past three or four weeks on their way to Cromwell.
A large contingent of passenger buses are on hand to transport 600 people to Warbirds over Wanaka today and provide shuttle services into Cromwell and small tours around the area.
Entertainment is high on the list of priorities as well.
Last night, Jenny Blackadder and Dusty Spittle, who have both been inducted into the American Hall of Fame, entertained the campers, while today there will be a chance for old-time dancing with the band After Glow and Margaret Bates singing.
Four-wheel-drive safaris have been organised for tomorrow to enable campers to take in the views of Lake Dunstan, Gibbston and the Remarkables.
A reflections service with several artists performing is also scheduled.
The rally will be open to the public from 11am till 4pm.
There will be a pet parade and a visit from Shrek the sheep. Campers will be able to have their picture taken with Shrek for a gold-coin donation, which will go to Cure Kids.
There will also be helicopter rides and stalls, including food, wines and fruit.
Tomorrow night is an Irish Musical evening with Nicky Bourke and Shindig. A morning tea will be held on Monday with a closing ceremony at 11am.
Mr Sheehan said it was a huge job organising everything and there was always something else that needed to be done.
Strong winds yesterday prompted warnings to campers to check their awnings were secure.
Mr Sheehan said the trades exhibits were very popular.
‘‘Some people who come spend their whole time just wandering around the exhibits and making their wish lists for the future,'' he said.
