While the hum of music, the thrill of show jumping and the buzz of the main arena are hallmarks of the Wānaka A&P Show, one of its most loved and enduring sections can be found inside the Shepherdess Home Industry Pavilion. This is where the Show’s heart beats strongest – through baking plates, preserving jars, flower displays and carefully crafted creations made by locals of all ages.
Home Industry competitions are a celebration of everyday skills, creativity and pride in a job well done. Entries range from baking, preserves, flowers and produce through to needlework, photography, woodwork, arts and crafts. What makes this section so special is its inclusiveness: preschoolers enter alongside grandparents, first-timers compete next to seasoned exhibitors, and everyone is welcomed with the same encouragement.
Home Industry committee member and long-time Show supporter Sarah Godfrey says the section brings the whole community together. Living in Wānaka on and off since 2003, she has attended the Show for more than two decades and joined the Home Industry committee last year after becoming a Society member. “After coming to the Show for so long, I wanted to give something back,” she says. “I enjoy baking and gardening, so Home Industry felt like the perfect fit.”
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers keeps Home Industry running smoothly. Planning chats happen throughout the year, then Show week sees the team in full action – setting up displays, welcoming entrants, supporting judges and ensuring everything runs seamlessly. “It’s a great group of people,” Sarah says. “I’ve picked up so many tips from other committee members, especially around gardening.”
The joy of Home Industry isn’t just for volunteers. Last year, encouragement from the committee saw Sarah and her family entering for the first time. Her mum placed second for ginger crunch, and her children earned commendations of their own. “They were absolutely thrilled,” she says. “It made the Show even more special for us.”
For anyone thinking about entering for the first time, the advice is simple: give it a go. Perfection isn’t required – Home Industry is friendly, relaxed and all about participation. The same goes for volunteering. “You meet great people, learn new things and it’s a really fun couple of days,” says Sarah. “And hot tip – summer holidays are a great time to keep kids entertained by planning and creating entries together.”
Whether you’re entering, volunteering, or simply admiring the displays, Home Industry is a reminder that the Wānaka A&P Show is as much about people and community as it is about agriculture.
Learn more about entering your flowers, preserves, photos, arts or crafts at www.wanakashow.co.nz. 13-14 March 2026.
