‘Great day’ as A&P show highlights best of region

Attendees enjoyed a great day out and about as the West Otago A&P Show enjoyed it’s 111th...
Attendees enjoyed a great day out and about as the West Otago A&P Show enjoyed it’s 111th anniversary on Saturday. PHOTO: GERRIT DOPPENBERG
The West Otago A&P Show has finished for another year, marking 111 years in Tapanui.

Attendees were delighted with a large variety of stalls, activities, and awards to entertain and celebrate rural life in West Otago.

There were petting zoos, paint ball, cotton candy, and a few more refreshments for adults and children alike.

On the fairground, awards were given to farmers and special livestock, celebrating their success in breeding and raising animals.

West Otago A&P Society president Bruce Weller said he was extremely happy with how the event went.

"It’s been awesome, a great day. The weather leading up has been iffy, but today I think there’s plenty of people.

"Very happy with the local turnout," he said.

An estimated 1800 people came through the gate, and Mr Weller said the response was terrific.

"I’m happy with the numbers I’ve seen walking around. It’s been awesome; few new things today,

"We changed things slightly, but we like filling up the trades, market stalls, plenty of variety,

"Hopefully a bit of everything for everyone."

Mr Weller said it was an important day for the area to bring eyes to a major industry.

"We’re showcasing the whole area we live in, bringing the town and country together.

"It’s all about welcoming everyone to what West Otago has for the day," he said.

An award was also given to life members of West Otago A&P by the Royal Agricultural Society.

West Otago A&P Society life member Murray Robertson said it was a great day for all the life members, past and present.

"It represents a lot of fellowship and friendship, for the past 111 years."

Mr Robertson, who has been a part of the society since 1964, said the organisation has still been going strong.

gerrit.doppenberg@odt.co.nz