This year, the Wānaka A&P Show team will be sporting some special attire: new uniforms made from award-winning wool. The merino wool used in the team’s zip-neck long sleeve tops and T-shirts comes directly from Armidale, the farm of Simon and Sarah Patterson, the back-to-back winners of both the Supreme Merino Sheep and Supreme Merino Fleece titles at the Show. Some of the T-shirts are also crafted from wool grown by Hugo and Kelly Pitts of Blenheim, whose fleeces are regularly showcased in the flock section at the show. The team will essentially be wearing the champions of the Show ring, creating a meaningful connection between the community’s best farmers and the heart of the Show.
This special project is made possible through Devold, a historic Norwegian outdoor clothing brand and proud partner of the Show for the past 5 years. Established in 1853, Devold is renowned for high-performance, sustainable merino wool clothing, blending Scandinavian design with the natural warmth and breathability of New Zealand wool. Traceability is central to their philosophy. Every garment carries a story from Sheep to Shop
Craig Smith, General Manager of Devold NZ and Upper Clutha A&P Society board member, says the uniforms perfectly capture the essence of the partnership. “There is something truly special about seeing our Show team wearing garments made from wool grown by our own Supreme champions. It is a perfect example of genuine traceability, knowing the farmers, knowing the story, and celebrating the journey from “Sheep to the Show.”
From award-winning fleeces to world-class garments, these uniforms are more than clothing. They are a celebration of excellence, community, and a remarkable fibre celebrated at the Wānaka A&P Show.
The Paterson family and co at the 2025 Show. From L-R: Allan Paterson, Simon Paterson, Hugo Paterson, Sarah Paterson, Andrew Calvert, Matthew Codington, Craig Smith, Bede Paterson.
