Entries in the Maniototo A & P Show were the highest they had been in several years, a 40-year stalwart of the show said.

The 114th annual show was held at Maniototo Park in Ranfurly yesterday.

Maniototo A & P Association life member Neville Wahrlich, of Ranfurly, said the horse and pony events were particularly popular this year, with nearly 500 entries received.

The number of trade exhibits was also "exceptional" and several companies and organisations had bought a stall at the show for the first time.

The association's president, Chris Steele, of Kyeburn, said the number of trade exhibitors at the show fluctuated, because every second year it clashed with the biennial Southern Field Days at Waimumu near Gore, which were held on even-numbered years.

The date of the Maniototo show could not be changed because all A & P show dates were allocated by the national body.

Entries in the sheep and wool classes were similar each year, but strong, Mr Steele said.

It was not known how many people attended the show before The Southland Times went to print, but there was a good crowd by early afternoon enjoying an eclectic mix of entertainment which A & P shows provide - from bouncy castles to baby animals and dog trialling to tractors.

There were also a couple of more serious messages, with an exhibit on the need for water conservation and the local St John Ambulance advertising its dire need for volunteers.

The fine weather experienced on show day is forecast to continue for the 13th annual Ranfurly Art Deco Festival tomorrow and Saturday.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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