A century of community - and pigs on the run
- Claire Inkson
- Mar 11
- 4 min read
There aren’t many events that can claim a century of crowds, competitions, and community spirit. But on March 14, the Mayfield A&P Show will do just that, celebrating its 100th show with a day that promises to be as lively and family-friendly as ever.
From livestock judging to trade stalls, tractor pulls and the famous pig racing, the Mayfield Show has built a reputation as one of Canterbury’s most relaxed and entertaining country days out.
Show president James Murdoch says the event has evolved over time, but the heart of it has stayed the same.
“I guess its current format was probably established with the downturn in farm subsidies in the eighties,” he said.
“It went from the traditional A&P show - and it still has those traditional features - to more of a fun day out for the family.”
The pigs that stole the show
For many, the first thing that comes to mind when the Mayfield Show is mentioned is the pig racing.
It’s been running for more than three decades and has become the show’s unofficial trademark.
“Pig racing’s been going for about 32 years,” Murdoch said.
“It’s been the flagship of the Mayfield Show really.”
While companies sponsor the pigs, it’s not quite the science some might expect.
“They bet on a number more than the pig, because the pigs all look the same. The numbers get changed, so it’s a real luck of the draw. But it’s fun. They’re quirky creatures and people just love it.”
And that’s exactly the point.
“It just makes people smile,” Murdoch said.
New twists and old favourites
Alongside the pig racing, the ever-popular tractor pull will return, along with a full programme of traditional livestock and equestrian events, trade stalls, food, shearing, vintage machinery and family entertainment.
There’s also the return of a piano demolition contest.
The challenge? Rugby teams will compete to break a piano down into pieces small enough to fit through a seat.
“Some people would say they’re just smashing a piano,” Murdoch said.
“But it’s just a bit of fun.”
Other attractions include a digger driver competition, Pedalmania bicycles for the kids, and a fire brigade rescue demonstration.
“It’s just a good day out,” he said. “The usual things - food, trade sites, and plenty to see.”
A show built to lift spirits
While the 2026 show marks a major milestone, its community-first approach has deep roots.
Murdoch recalls that when farm subsidies were removed in the 1980s, the show committee at the time made a simple decision.
“Farming took a big hit. I believe that year they didn’t charge anybody at the gate. They just wanted people to come.”
That focus on affordability and community still shapes the show today.
Centennial project leaves a legacy
To mark the 100-year milestone, the show committee formed a special centennial subcommittee to come up with a lasting project.
“We wanted something more than just planting a tree,” Murdoch said.
The result was a full refurbishment of the historic produce shed - a building with its own wartime history.
“During the Second World War it was used as a rifle range and stored blankets and children’s clothing in case people needed to be evacuated out of Christchurch.”
The building has now been completely upgraded, with new cladding, lining, shelving, wiring, and lighting.
“It’s turned an old building into a modern one. It’s now bird- and vermin-proof, which will make the show set-up much easier. It’s got a really cool feel to it.”
What began as a pipe dream became a $110,000 project, funded through grants and community fundraising.
“We’ve actually got surplus funds left over to put the finishing touches on it.”
The renovation has also earned the produce shed Royal Show status, a significant recognition.
“We made an application to the Royal Agricultural Society and got royal status for the produce shed as an event, which is very fitting.”
Generations of connection
Murdoch himself is a fourth-generation farmer in the district and has been involved with the show since the 1980s.
“I think I was selling back numbers for horses back then,” he said.
For him, the show’s value is simple.
“It’s a great place for people to get together - through working bees, projects, and the show day itself. Historically it’s been where farmers exhibit their skills, but it’s also just about community.”
And the best part?
“Seeing kids being able to run around. Seeing families enjoying themselves.”
Show Day Info
Event: 100th Mayfield A&P Show
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Tickets: Adults $20, children free.
Venue: Mayfield Showgrounds, Mid Canterbury
Info: www.mayfieldshow.com
Show Highlights:
• Iconic pig racing (running for 30+ years)
• Tractor pull
• Piano demolition contest
• Digger driver competition
• Livestock and equestrian events
• Produce and home industries
• Fire brigade rescue demonstration
• Trade stalls and food vendors
• Family entertainment all day
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