110 years strong: Amuri A&P Show set for big day out

There will be the crack of axes, the rumble of jet boats, the thud of hooves and the smell of hot pies in the air.

For one day, Rotherham will come alive as the Amuri A&P Show marks 110 years, bringing together everything that makes a country show what it is - livestock, competition, community and a good dose of entertainment.

Held on the first Saturday in March, the show has long been a highlight of the North Canterbury calendar, blending tradition with a few fresh additions to keep things interesting.

Show president Guy Blomfield says while the show has evolved over the years, the heart of it remains the same.

“It’s a really strong show. We’re lucky to have a good community behind us,” he says.

“It’s about getting people together, farmers, families, locals, and just having a good day out.”

This year’s programme offers plenty to draw a crowd, with traditional elements sitting alongside some new attractions.

One of the standout features is the woodchopping, which will see a New Zealand versus Australia test series held as part of a three-day timber sports programme.

For a rural show of this size, attracting international competitors is no small feat.

“It’s pretty special,” Blomfield says.

“To have world champion axemen coming over from Australia, and the best in New Zealand here as well, that’s huge for us.”

The event has grown steadily in recent years, driven by the efforts of passionate organisers working behind the scenes to bring it together.

Also new this year is a large-scale jet boat display, with more than 40 boats expected to attend.

Organised by locals, the display reflects the region itself, with the Hurunui and Waiau rivers on the doorstep and jet boating a big part of local life.

“It’s something a bit different, but it fits the area,” Blomfield says.

Alongside the headline attractions, the main ring will be busy throughout the day, with horse and pony events running from early morning through to the afternoon.

Sheep shearing will be running from 10am, and Akaroa Salmon  will be giving a presentation in the entertainment tent.

The grand parade, young achiever award and ever popular terrier races will all feature, before the action shifts to the rodeo.

Steer riding classes for juniors, novices and experienced riders will be followed by the chance to see some of the country’s bigger bucking bulls in action.

“There’s always a big crowd for that,” Blomfield says.

The show traditions are still strong from the produce shed and trade displays through to a full range of food and stalls.

A pie eating competition, using Culverden Bakery mince pies, is expected to draw a crowd, with competitors given two and a half minutes to eat as many pies as they can. “We’re just going nice and simple, a good old mince pie,” Blomfield says.

The event is open to those aged 13 and over, with a $10 entry fee.

Local singer songwriter Lexi Sandford will perform during the day and again at the community barbecue, which rounds out the event from 5pm.

Run by the local Young Farmers, the barbecue is free for attendees.

An auction of prizes, including a helicopter ride and accommodation packages, help to carry the day into the evening.

For Blomfield, who has been involved in the show for many years, it is that sense of community that matters most.

He and his wife Marie farm at Longbrook Dairy where they are equity partners and contract milk around 970 cows.

Marie’s family also has strong ties to the show, with her grandfather serving as president in 1978 and her aunt in 2011.

“It’s a full day,” Blomfield says.

“There’s something for everyone and it’s a good chance for people to come together.”

Amuri A&P Show: What you need to know

Where: 15 Heaton Street, Rotherham

When: March 7, gates open 8am

Tickets: $15 adults | $5 children | preschoolers free

Payment: Eftpos available at the gate