Merino sheep took centre stage at the 111th annual Maniototo Agricultural and Pastoral Association Show held in Ranfurly yesterday.
Gimmerburn farmers Alan and Simon Paterson won the top three prizes in a well-supported sheep competition, which included about 100 merinos.
The father and son's merino ram was judged supreme ram, while their merino ewe was awarded the titles of supreme ewe and supreme sheep overall.
Organisers made a feature of merino sheep for the first time this year, and planned to feature different breeds in future.
About 100 merino fleeces were entered in the wool competition, one of the largest in any New Zealand A and P Show.
Trophies for sheep and wool were presented from 4pm, following judging throughout the day.
Those involved in horse and pony competitions started at 8am, due to numerous entries.
Home industry competitions were also well-supported this year, with hundreds of entries in baking, vegetables, flowers, craft and photography sections.
Decorated sack and junk sculpture competitions also generated interest.
About 30 children and their animals took part in a pet parade, which comprised puppies, dogs, and sheep, as well as a goat, duck, miniature pony, guinea pig, and rabbit.
First place was awarded to Ranfurly 5-year-old Will Pringle and his male golden retriever puppy, Muddy Paws.
The CRT and Novartis-sponsored competition was judged by Maniototo couple former Silver Fern Belinda Colling and former Otago rugby player Charlie Hore.
It preceded a grand parade at 2pm, which included vintage tractors and a full brass band.
Stalls offered food, entertainment, crafts, clothing, home appliances, farm equipment, toys, and local produce.
Some raised money for Haiti earthquake victims, and others fundraised for Maniototo community groups and organisations.
Results were:
Sheep: Supreme champion, Alan and Simon Paterson (Gimmerburn), merino; supreme champion ram, Alan and Simon Paterson (Gimmerburn), merino; supreme champion ewe, Alan and Simon Paterson (Gimmerburn), merino.
Wool: Supreme champion fleece, Alan and Simon Paterson (Gimmerburn).
Horses: Supreme champion hack, Isaac family (Italian Rascal); supreme champion paced and mannered hack, Kirstin Darby (Amberleigh Annalish); supreme champion pony, Isaac/Kennedy (Glencree Glizzard); supreme champion led sporthorse, Tracy Crossan (H. V. Wolftone); supreme champion led pony, Erica Pine (Brooklyn Airs and Graces).
