The 2024 Wānaka A&P Show is a week away, so it's time to start planning your visit. If you're watching your budget this year, you're in luck. There are oodles of activities, performances, and events that won’t cost you a cent, including some of the Show's most iconic events and well-known entertainers.
The Wānaka A&P Show has a jam-packed two-day schedule running Friday, 8th March and Saturday, 9th March. This year, all the crowd favourites are returning, plus there will be a special appearance on Saturday by one of New Zealand's most treasured duos, The Topp Twins.
Here’s a round-up of just some of the free events you’ll find at this year’s show covering entertainment, must-dos and animals.
Entertainment
The Topp Twins performing live on Saturday. It's hard to think of a better-loved New Zealand duo than Dame Jools Topp and Dame Lynda Topp. The last time we saw the pair at the Wānaka Show was in 2017, and we are thrilled to have them back again. The Topp Twins will join other renowned Kiwi acts on the entertainment lineup, including Adam McGrath from country-rock band The Eastern, singer Barry Saunders and Lieutenant Lou the clown police officer. Don't miss The Topp Twins on stage as they deliver their toe-tapping tunes and hilarious banter – and maybe even a visit from alter-egos, Camp Mother & Camp Leader and Ken & Ken.
The Rural Village. The Wānaka A&P Show attracts some of the best in the business when it comes to farming and agricultural skills. Head to the Rural Village to see top-notch talent like the farriers, sheep shearers and woodchoppers on display. The Rural Village is located close to Gate 2, and live demonstrations will be running throughout the show.
The must-dos
The Jack Russell Race. The Show's most chaotic and hilarious event. Arrive early to secure a good ringside position and watch these pint-sized athletes vie for first place.
Sheaf Tossing Competition. Join in the sheaf tossing competition, to be held at 3pm on Saturday, in front of the Home Industry Pavilion. The sheaf tossing competition has a long tradition at the show with its origins coming from the days before the advent of mobile harvesters. Sheaves were used to store crops such as oats and grain as they ripened. Sheaf tossing is always a highly competitive event! Sign up on the day and join in the fun.
The Grand Parade. Head to the Main Ring at 12:45pm on Saturday. The Grand Parade is a celebration of livestock excellence and a highlight of the show. One not to miss.
Home Industries. Get inspired by the impressive work on display at the Home Industry Pavilion. The Home Industry Pavilion is where talented sewers, bakers and artists display their hard work. Check back in on Saturday afternoon to see who has taken out the blue ribbons.
Farmyard Friends. Visit the Farmlands Farmyard and get up close to some wonderful farmyard friends. Perfect for young visitors.
Animals
Best-in-class fleece. Visit the wool shed and see the best fleeces in the business at The New Zealand Fine Wool Supreme Competition. Do you know your micron yields from your fleece weights? Can you spot the difference between a Merino and a Romney. You may just learn something new about wool during your visit, and there will be plenty of experts on hand to help you.
Pets & Dogs Judging. Whether it's the cutest, funniest or most unusual animal, there will be something for all animal lovers at the Pets and Dogs Judging happening at 11am on Saturday.
Dog Trials. Watch some clever canines at work and catch the Dog Trials in the Pembroke Ring on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.
Equestrian events. Whether you're a horse-lover or not, it's hard to go past the skill and elegance of the equestrian events. Events will run across both days of the show, with highlights including the Hunter Jumping on Friday morning and the Championship Pony & Hack Hunter Jump on Saturday afternoon.
The Wānaka A&P Show will be held on March 8th and 9th, 2024, at the Wānaka Showgrounds. Book tickets here.