The first Morrinsville A&P Show was held in 1917 and, 107 years on, show committee chairman Bruce McRobbie says it’s a tradition which endures – and grows.

“A&P Shows, held up and down New Zealand, provide an opportunity to celebrate various aspects of rural life and, as importantly, provide an avenue for the community to get together,” says Bruce.

“The Morrinsville A&P Show is a showcase for some of the country’s top and aspiring equestrians with events from lead-rein ponies, through to champion hack and hunter events. Clydesdale and carriage horses are always a crowd pleaser.

“The dairy section will, this year, be complemented by the Milking Shorthorn North Island Championships and there are strong entries in beef cattle, alpaca, dairy goats and calf club pets.

“The day’s programme also includes shearing demonstrations and sheep dog trials.

“The show features one of the largest trade displays, outside the National Fieldays, with tractors, farm machinery and vehicles. There will also be a full complement of entertainment (bands throughout the day), food stalls and a display of vintage equipment.

The Morrinsville A&P Show will be held at the Morrinsville Recreation Grounds at Avenue Road, Morrinsville on Saturday, March 2.

Gates open at 8am. Parking is free and entry to the show is $10 for adults, $5 for 12 to 16 year olds and under 12 are free. A family pass is $25. The gate fee is the only fee with children’s entertainment free.