Central Hawke's Bay A&P Show succeeds despite weather

From left, Paige Saunders, Mikaela Anderson and Casey Mohi of Waipukurau enjoy a ride at the show.

Despite the unseasonable weather and occasional chilly shower, Show Day at the 105th CHB A&P Show was a great success, organisers say.

Show secretary Julia Tatam said surprisingly good numbers made the most of the family day out and attended the main show day on Saturday November 11 and the bullriding event that evening, which closed the show.

The equestrian events that started on Thursday culminated in Andra Mobberley from Masterton on Monsteros Just N Pretoria, earlier named the Supreme Champion Pony, going on to win the Champion of Champions title.

In the shearing competition held on Saturday, Rowland Smith racked up his 23rd open event win, although this was the first time he had won at this event in Waipukurau.
Pongaroa farmer David Buick came second, John Kirkpatrick third and Jack Fagan fourth.
World champion Joel Henare won the woolhandling competition.

There were many novelty events held throughout the day, including the trolley derby revenge event and a new fixture this year, a Crufts-style dog show, which attracted lots of entries and was lots of fun, Mrs Tatam said.

A highlight was a dog dressed in a highland dancing outfit, and other standouts were a competitor dressed in a police uniform with her police dog, and a dog dressed as a Christmas elf.

A spectacular display of blooms was on show in the rose competition and a big crowd gathered for the terrier racing event, she said.

In its 105th year, the show continued to thrive, thanks to the efforts of a dedicated, hardworking committee, but long-time committee member Dan von Dadelszen warned that more volunteers were needed to secure the event's future.

"We need young, fit men to help with setting up, and we also need new blood for the committee."

Current vice-president James Parsons was one of the younger committee members and echoed this call.

"I grew up with the A&P Show - we came as kids with our parents and grandparents who were all on the committee.

"I want to see it continue its place as a traditional part of Hawke's Bay life.
"People need to give back otherwise there's a risk it will fold."