Entries so far across the 11 walking, running, horse-riding, cycling and wagon trails were ''significantly up from last year, by about 40%'', cavalcade co-ordinator Terry Davis said.
''One walking trail is sold out already, and a couple of horse trails are very close to selling out.
''But the new bike-riding trail and running trail have plenty of spaces, so anyone half-interested should get in contact with us and get registered.''
The 26th edition of the annual event will begin on February 23, as trails head for Hawea at various places around Otago and Southland. All the trails will arrive in Hawea on on March 2, and preparations for the finale are well under way in the host town.
Cavalcade to Hawea committee chairman Warren Hewson said a lot of work had already been done by the committee.
''We've made all the big decisions; it's just about fine-tuning everything, I suppose.
''We've got a lot of volunteers who want to come on board and had some really good support from the local businesses.''
Mr Hewson said the finale at the Hawea Domain would feature shearing and woodcutting displays, craft breweries, wineries, several local musical acts, as well as a market that so far had garnered ''huge interest'', plus the traditional hoedown at night for cavalcade participants.
