Methven Show revs up with ute muster and Ranger record attempt
- Claire Inkson
- Mar 11
- 4 min read
The Methven A&P Show is set to return on March 21, with a growing ute muster and a Ford Ranger world record attempt running alongside the day’s traditional programme.
The ute-focused events have quickly become one of the show’s biggest drawcards, bringing an extra layer of energy and competition to the showgrounds.
“There’s been a lot of talk about it. Every time I go out, someone mentions it,” show president Mike McKenzie said.
With over $6000 worth of prizes up for grabs, his message to those thinking about entering is simple.
“People are paying to come into the Show anyway, so just bring your ute. Instead of parking on the street, you might as well park in the paddock and be part of it.”
Adding to the ute line-up, Gluyas Motor Group will have the new Ford Ranger Super Duty on display, giving locals a chance to see it in person.
Sales Manager Chris Hart says there has already been strong interest.
“It’s exciting for us to be able to showcase the all-new Ranger Super Duty at the Methven Show. There’s been a lot of talk about it, especially with people needing a bit more towing and carrying capacity, so it’ll be good for locals to see it up close.
“It’s really designed for those who are pushing their vehicles every day - whether that’s on farm, towing, or carrying heavier loads. There’s nothing quite like seeing it in person to get a feel for what it can do.
“The Ranger’s a big part of rural life around here, so being involved in the world record attempt is something we’re really looking forward to. We’re a local business, and supporting events like the Methven Show and the Ute Muster is something that matters to us.”
While the utes might grab the headlines, it’s the kids who often steal the show.
The Lions Top Team Competition is back, giving primary school children the chance to get stuck in, get competitive and have a bit of fun.
Teams of four take on everything from tyre races and wheelbarrow relays to sack races and three-legged races - equal parts teamwork and good old-fashioned fun.
There is also a strong line-up of activities for younger competitors, including a sheep shearing competition for kids, giving them a chance to have a go and be part of the action.
For McKenzie, who has been involved for around 15 years, it is the community behind the event that keeps it going.
“It’s a community show,” he said.
“There’s a lot of different events that involve the community and a lot of people behind the scenes making it happen.”
While around 40 people sit on the committee, more than 200 people are involved on show day itself, helping run everything from the stock yards to the pavilion.
This year, the show is also taking time to recognise a part of the rural workforce that is often behind the scenes, with the theme celebrating the region’s immigrant workforce.
“It’s about saying thank you really - for what they bring to the productivity and life of our region,” McKenzie said.
The theme will be reflected through food stalls, pavilion displays and competitions, including baking entries featuring different national flags.
In it’s 110th year, the Methven Show still delivers all the traditional elements. Livestock and equestrian events run throughout the day, alongside woodchopping, pavilion competitions and the grand parade at 2pm.
There is also expected to be a strong showing from visiting competitors, including a number of woodchoppers travelling over from the West Coast.
As the afternoon rolls on, the focus shifts to the main arena - and things start to ramp up.
“That’s where it all happens from about four o’clock onwards,” McKenzie said.
Events like the ute tug of war, human tug of war, gumboot throwing, sheaf tossing bring a mix of competition and entertainment, often drawing a strong crowd.
“There’s always something going on. It’s a lot of fun.”
Behind the scenes, the show also plays a role in supporting the wider community, with proceeds going back into local initiatives, including the Ōpuke Innovation Hub.
For McKenzie, the reason the Methven Show continues to thrive is simple.
“It’s about getting people off the farm and together for the day,” he said.
“It’s a good chance to catch up and be part of the community.”
Methven A&P Show
When: March 21 2026
Where: Methven Showgrounds, Canterbury
Methven Ute Muster & Ford Ranger Record Attempt -running alongside Methven A&P Show
Ute Muster (open to all ute makes and models), Ford Ranger world record attempt, multiple judged categories, ute tug-of-war and the new Hers Not His category.
Register (optional):
Ford Ranger owners are encouraged to register ahead of time to help organisers plan numbers.
More information:
Methven A&P Show – https://www.methvenshow.co.nz
Follow:
Instagram: @methvenutemuster
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