A new layout for the Upper Clutha A and P Show this year should provide better security for trade exhibitors and improve the flow of pedestrians between Pembroke Park and the Wanaka Showgrounds, co-ordinator Jane Stalker said yesterday.
The Wanaka show is on Friday, March 11, and Saturday, March 12.
It is the second-largest agricultural and pastoral show in the South Island.
With a steady increase in exhibitors in recent years, the event has spread out from the showgrounds, across McDougall St and into Pembroke Park.
This year, security fencing will go around the entire site. Internal layout changes have occurred to create a central stage and food court area at the McDougall St end of the showgrounds.
The number of trade exhibits has increased from 330 last year to 360 this year.
About 15,000 visitors are expected to attend the two-day event.
"I don't think we can fit any more [exhibitors] in ... It doesn't sound like a lot, but people want bigger sites," Mrs Stalker said.
The New Zealand Army Band is one of the special show guests this year and will perform two concerts at the central stage on the Friday, at noon and 3pm.
A chamber group from the band will perform in the grand parade on the Saturday, as well as on the stage from 11.15am and 3.15pm.
Raconteur Ginette McDonald will open the show on the Saturday morning, present ribbons and speak from the stage at 11am and 3pm on the Saturday.
Other entertainment on the Saturday includes the popular Jack Russell race at 12.30pm and the Ramsey Roundwood Lumberjack Show at 9.30am, 11.45pm and 2pm.
Central Otago Stud Merino Breeders will hold their 24th Merino ram sale at the show on Friday, March 11, from 3pm.
Equestrian events will be held both days of the show.
