Thousands of people turned out to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the fourth Annual Hilux New Zealand Rural Games held in The Square over the weekend.
The Games are New Zealand's premier celebration of rural sports attracting more than 200 athletes from a diverse range of disciplines from both sides of the Tasman.
New Zealand Rural Games founder and trust board member Steve Hollander says the aim is to celebrate rural sports, provide rural athletes with a national platform on which to perform and deliver some welcome light relief for everyone.
"It is a free fun event for families, and there is always something to watch or do."
![Competitors prepare for the annual NZ Rural Highland Games Heavies TransTasman Competition. Photo / Karla Karaitiana](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/67GWRFUGPNN2YNJDPKONBPF2R4.jpg?auth=bb33df3aba5a4cb1966c6c5623971598a63dd636a7becea04961bb91373c0429&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)