The Wānaka A&P Show has been a highlight on the local calendar for more than 85 years.

The Wānaka A&P Show is an annual community-led event, where country and town come together to celebrate our rural roots, share new ideas and enjoy food, music, art and a spot of shopping.

Where top equestrian riders compete and leading Kiwi farmers proudly display animals, where young and old enter arts and crafts, enjoy free entertainment and fill their boots at over five hundred trade stalls. “It’s an amazing exhibition of local talent, which thrills and inspires both overseas visitors and locals alike.” – Elizabeth Buggs, A&P Show Home Industry Co-convener.

Our Wānaka event has evolved to become one the largest A&P Shows in New Zealand, attracting over 40,000 attendees each year from around the district and country.  And as the Show grows, the driving force is and will always be our community. Read on to find out what’s on this year, highlights from the past, tips for getting the most out of your ticket and how you can invest in the future of the Show.

Celebrating our rural community

The Wānaka A&P Show is governed by the Upper Clutha A&P Society, an organisation that can trace its roots and boots back to 1895. Local people have always made up the Society, as well as the A&P Show Management Team and Committees, all who invest huge amounts of hard work and passion to deliver a highly anticipated event every year.

Many involved represent family generations that have supported the Show over time such as Noeline Dickey; an important part of the Show, followed by Geoff and Janice Dickey and now their daughter-in-law Toni Hyslop, a Home Industry Convenor. This multigenerational commitment exemplifies the dedication and love our community has for the Show.

The first Show was held at the Cromwell Racecourse in 1896, with many of the same events we still enjoy today such as equestrian show jumping, sheep competitions and Boer Goat judging.

The following year in 1897, the first ever dog trial in New Zealand took place. Handlers guide their dogs to expertly move sheep through obstacle courses and into enclosures, judged on both skill and style. It’s a true testament to the bond between farmer and dog, showcasing impressive teamwork through whistles and commands.

In 1934, the Show moved to Wānaka and has been held at the picturesque Wānaka Showgrounds ever since. Jump forward to 1998, and the world-famous Jack Russell Race was born. Introduced by then-President Jerry Burdon in 1998, the Jack Russell Race has become a Show highlight with many attendees planning their weekend around this one entertaining event. Last year, over 90 sharp-eyed, eager dogs competed, delighting crowds and sprinting their way into our fondest memories of the Show.

Top picks and tips for 2025

The line-up for 2025 is set to be goodie, with the traditions we know and love, and new additions to surprise and delight. We chatted to A&P Show Communications Manager Penny Bell, to find out her top picks and tips for this year:

• The Local Larder and Peter Gordon: A fresh addition featuring artisan food and drink exhibitors, with live cooking demonstrations from renowned chef Peter Gordon – a pioneer of fusion food and judge of The Great Kiwi Bake Off.
• Agri Exchange: A new hub focused on future-thinking, practical solutions, and emerging technologies to support and grow the agricultural sector.
• Livestock and Home Industry Competitions: Showcasing the best of rural creativity and skill. Keen to enter? Get inspired with our Home Industry Summer Guide for crafting entries.

To find out more, head to the Wānaka A&P Show’s ‘What’s On’ page.

How to get the most out of your ticket

1. Pack the essentials: Sunscreen, hats, reusable water bottles, and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
2. Explore something new: Take the time to visit new additions like the Local Larder or Agri Exchange, and discover fresh experiences alongside the traditional Show favourites.
3. Lower your impact: Utilise the park-and-ride options or bike parking to reduce your carbon footprint. Bring your own cup, reusable shopping bag, and utensils to support the Show’s low-waste ambitions.
4. Stay in the loop: Follow the Show on Instagram or Facebook for updates, sneak peeks, and helpful tips to make the most of your experience.
5. Take your time: There’s so much to enjoy—relax, explore, and soak in the incredible atmosphere at your own pace. The Plunket Playground and picnic zones are perfect spots to take a break, enjoy some food, and soak up the vibrant Show vibes.

Investing in the future of the Show

As an event run for and by the community, the Wānaka A&P Show wouldn’t be where they are today without the support of our local people. This year, they are inviting attendees to become ‘Society Members’ and enrich our connection to the vibrant world of the Upper Clutha A&P Society.

Memberships are $45 per person, per year and include a ticket, exclusive Show day discounts, entry to our Members Marquee with ringside seats, coffee carts and food vendor (with smaller queues), voting rights at the AGM and the ability to apply to our Wānaka A&P Foundation grants.

More than a spectator, you will become an integral part of supporting initiatives to encourage and promote the growth of our rural community.

“Everyone, town and country alike, is part of who we are. Not just a country show and not just a town show, but incorporating both parts to make the whole – if we can achieve this, then we are on the right track.” – Mike Elliot, Wānaka A&P Show President.

To find out more about the Wānaka A&P Show and how you can be a sustainable Show go-er, look out for our next journal over on Love Wānaka.

Blog in partnership with Lake Wānaka and Love Wānaka.