Showtime in Paparoa

Show organisers are encouraging families to make a day of it by also visiting nearby attractions.


Horses, sheep and cattle will take centre stage when the Paparoa A&P Show returns this summer, promising a full day of rural tradition, family fun and community competition.

The annual show will be held on Saturday, February 7, transforming Paparoa into a hub of activity with livestock events, food stalls, wood chopping, free children’s rides and a packed indoor exhibition.

Organisers are encouraging families to make a day of it, with nearby attractions such as the giant fig tree at Pahi, the Kauri Museum at Matakohe and Piroa Falls at Maungaturoto all within easy reach.

One of the highlights is the show’s popular Indoor Section, held in the Paparoa Hall, featuring dozens of competitive classes for both adults and children. Categories range from flowers, fruit and vegetables to baking, photography and knitting.

Indoor coordinator Melinda Birt says anyone can take part.

“There’s a competition for a collection of vegetables where you can enter anything you have, and the photography section is always popular,” she said.

This year includes a sponsored prize from Battensby Brothers Contracting for photographs capturing farming activities.

Full details of indoor categories are available at www.paparoashow.org.nz.

For something a little different, laser clay target shooting will again be on offer. Using a real shotgun converted to fire a harmless infra-red beam, participants can test their aim without noise or recoil. The activity is suitable for ages 12 and over, with costs starting at $5 for 10 skeets.

The heritage vehicle display is expected to feature more than 50 vintage and classic cars, trucks and other vehicles. Owners of pre-1980 vehicles are invited to take part, offering visitors a chance to get up close to lovingly-restored machinery.

The Paparoa A&P Show runs from 9am. Entry is $10 for adults, $5 for school-aged children, with under-fives free.