Otago Field days a draw despite bad weather

Paul Mutch

Wet-weather gear and winter woollies were essential at the Otago Field Days yesterday but it didn't stop people attending.

The third annual event, being held at the Palmerston Saleyards, and will continue today with nearly 200 exhibitors.

Chief executive officer Paul Mutch said although the weather wasn't as good as he'd hoped, it didn't have a major impact on numbers.

"The cold weather means it makes it a bit tricky to do anything on farm for both farmers and contractors so will hopefully encourage people to get out for the day.

"Ultimately it will turn a few people away but, that's life and we just have to deal with it."

More than 6000 plants were available and there was a larger focus on gardening and horticulture, so urban visitors were catered for.

The field days were started three years ago as a way to use community facilities and encourage community development, Mr Mutch said.

"In the first year we outgrew the show grounds ... It's been great to see some new exhibitors this year and others who were here last year have made the most of having larger sites."

Although the field days ended today, as soon as the gates were closed, he would already be thinking about next year's event, he said.

"As soon as it's over, there will be a review ... and within the next month there will be framework for the next one."

He and the rest of the organising committee had their fingers crossed the sun would shine today, he said.

- Ella Stokes