Second East Otago Field Days 'fantastic'

Michelle and Kevin Fayen, from North Canterbury business Kev's Pickled, discuss their products with visitors Lanee and David Harkness and daughters Edie (1) and Ruby (4). Photo / Sally Brooker

The second annual East Otago Field Days was "a fantastic event'', organising committee chief executive Paul Mutch says.

After being held at the Palmerston showgrounds last year, a bigger site was needed this time.

The Palmerston Saleyards proved ideal, with plenty of room for the increased number of exhibitors to have larger displays, plus ample car-parking in adjacent paddocks alongside State Highway 85 just west of the town.

The weather also played its part, the dry, sunny conditions in stark contrast to last year's sea of mud.

"We had a good crowd and terrific weather,'' Mr Mutch said.

More than 4000 people attended across Wednesday and Thursday last week, an increase on the crowd at the inaugural field days.

Some of the exhibitors had record sales, including those whose wares featured in fashion parades.

"That's heartening to hear,'' Mr Mutch said.

He had asked exhibitors what changes they would like for future events. Most said they liked it how it was, and had already secured their spots for 2018.

The field days would be held a week earlier next year, Mr Mutch said.

The committee, which he described as "a great group of people'', was keen to continue. It is an offshoot of the Palmerston and Waihemo A&P Association, which has also expanded its summer show from one to two days.