For three days this weekend, Waimate Showgrounds could have the same population as the town next to it, if the annual March Hare motorcycle rally reaches its full potential.
The March Hare Motorcycle Club organises the annual rally to Waimate and its president, Craig Rowley, is hoping for between 2000 and 3000 people on the main day tomorrow.
Waimate's population is about 2800 people, which puts the rally into context as a big boost for the town's economy.
The event started 26 years ago when a few mates with motorcycles gathered at the Waihao Forks Hotel. It got so big, the hotel and surrounding area could not cope, so it was moved to the Waimate Showgrounds.
Last year, just over 2000 people were at the rally, but Mr Rowley said competing events, the weather and the February 22 Christchurch earthquake had a big impact on numbers.
So far this year, about 500 "pre-bookings" have been sold - slightly fewer than last year.
However, Mr Rowley is not worried. Most people leave it until they know what the weather is like before committing.
They start arriving on the Friday morning, particularly regulars, who want their favourite camp site again.
Bands will play tonight but the big day is tomorrow, starting at 11am with the trike show in Waimate.
A wide range of events has been organised for the rest of the day, with entertainment expected to go into the early hours of Sunday. The motorcyclists leave on Sunday.
