After nearly 29 years with the Wānaka A&P Show, Jane Stalker is stepping down from her role as General Manager, handing the reins over to Maria Ottley as she takes on the next chapter of her journey.
Maria joined the Wānaka A&P team in 2023, initially bringing her skills and experience to the Trade and Sponsorship portfolios. Since then, she has become an integral part of the team, taking on the Event Manager role and developing a strong understanding of the many moving parts involved in delivering one of New Zealand’s largest agricultural and pastoral shows.
Maria brings a background in event management, marketing and commercial operations, along with a real appreciation for what makes the Wānaka A&P Show so special – its rural heritage, community spirit, dedicated volunteers and the people behind the scenes.
Jane’s journey with the Show began in 1997, working alongside President Jerry Burdon in preparation for the 1998 Show. Starting out alongside Kay Curtis, with Jane as Secretary, grew into a lifelong commitment to an event that has become such an important part of the Wānaka and Upper Clutha community. A special thank you goes to her family for their unwavering support and many years of volunteering.
Over the years, Jane has seen the Show grow enormously, with plenty of changes, challenges, milestones, memorable moments and, of course, lots of laughs along the way. Through it all, one thing has remained constant – the people, passion and community spirit that make the A & P Show so special.
Jane is incredibly proud of what has been achieved and, in particular, the fantastic team of staff, Presidents and Board members, committees, volunteers, competitors, exhibitors, sponsors and the local community who make the Show happen. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many wonderful people and be part of an organisation with such a strong heart and proud heritage.
A very special thank you goes to her family for their unwavering support and many years of enduring Show talk round the dining table!
As Jane hands over the reins, she does so knowing the Show is in very capable hands. She wishes Maria and the entire team every success for the future and looks forward to seeing the Show continue to grow and embrace new opportunities.
While Jane may be stepping away from the office, she won’t be disappearing altogether! She looks forward to catching up with familiar faces and seeing everyone in the President’s Tent over Show weekend.
We look forward to seeing Maria lead the Show into its next chapter, particularly as we prepare to celebrate our 90th Show in March 2027!