The hugely popular Wānaka A&P Show attracts more than 40,000 people to the picturesque show grounds alongside Lake Wānaka each year. So, with this many people attending and more than 520 stalls to visit, what’s the best way to navigate the crowds and make the most of your Show experience?

Event manager Jane Stalker says her best advice is to plan ahead.

“The Wānaka A&P Show is a unique event for our community and brings a very special town-meets-country vibe for two days. There’s truly something for everyone, and it’s an event we are very proud to host each year.

“My advice would be to familiarise yourself with the Show programme first. Pick your favourite events and make sure you plan enough time to get from place to place – especially as you might bump into a familiar face along the way or stop to purchase something that catches your eye.”

Some handy tips to make your Show experience the best it can be:

• Enjoy the range of free entertainment: Captivating speakers and artists will take their respective stages, starting from 10am over both days. The performance venues include the Pembroke Stage, Radio Wānaka Stage and the Life & Style Pavillion. Full details on speakers, times and locations are found in the Show programme.
• Don’t miss the Show’s traditions: The hilarious Jack Russell race. (12.30pm on Saturday) and the much-loved Grand Parade (follows immediately after, at 12.45pm) returns for the Show’s 86th year. Make sure you get to the Pembroke Ring early to secure your viewing spot for these popular events.
• The popular Park and Ride returns. Save the walking for the Showgrounds and take the Park and Ride shuttle. Free buses will leave every 15 minutes from the corner of Stone Street and Cardrona Valley Road – adjacent to the Wānaka Medical Centre – between 8am to 5:30pm.
• For trade exhibitors: The Trade Office – on the corner of Ardmore Street and McDougall Street – is the main base for trade exhibitors and any trade-related enquires. For vehicle access into the showgrounds, exhibitors can use Gate 1 but must be off-site by 8:30am.
• Need some extra help at the Show?
• If you find yourself feeling a little lost or needing extra help while at the Show, look out for the Show volunteers. They will be wandering the showgrounds throughout the day and are more than happy to provide any assistance needed. For any other enquiries, including lost and found, head to the Show office located next to the Home Industry area – adjacent to the Main Ring – on the Show’s map.