Final numbers have been tallied and a record breaking 45,000 people streamed through the gates – surpassing 2024’s previous record of just over 44,000. Two days of settled, warm weather and several new attractions helped make it a memorable outing for locals and visitors alike.
The 2026 Wānaka A&P Show brought the very best of rural New Zealand to the Upper Clutha, welcoming competitors, exhibitors and visitors from across the country for two vibrant days of agriculture, entertainment and community connection.
Held at the Wānaka Showgrounds on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 March, the iconic event once again celebrated the strength and spirit of New Zealand’s rural industries, while creating plenty of opportunities for urban and rural to come together.
Upper Clutha A&P Society chair Keith Cooper paid tribute to over 450 volunteers who gave their time and passion to make the Show the success it was once again.
Visitors enjoyed a packed programme featuring livestock competitions, equestrian events, music, trade exhibits, food and wine, live demonstrations and family entertainment – all set against the spectacular backdrop of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains.
This year’s livestock competitions showcased some of the country’s finest cattle, sheep, fleece and Boer goats, judged by leading national and international experts. Among them was internationally respected cattle judge PJ Budler, whose presence highlighted the calibre of competition at the show. Budler also spent time supporting the next generation through the new All Breeds Beef Youth Round Up, guiding participants as they developed their cattle handling and judging skills. The programme brought together young people aged 8-25 for workshops, competitions and mentoring opportunities.
Alongside the traditional agricultural competitions, the Gallaway Cook Allan Agri Exchange hosted a series of discussions and events designed to strengthen understanding between rural producers and the wider community. Conversations ranged from innovation in agriculture to thoughtful discussions about bridging the gap between urban and rural New Zealand.
The showgrounds were also buzzing with hundreds of trade exhibitors from across the country, offering everything from agricultural machinery and rural services to artisan food, crafts and lifestyle products.
Wānaka A&P Show General Manager Jane Stalker said the event was about far more than ribbons and results.
“The show is a celebration of rural life and the people behind it. It’s an opportunity for farmers, families, businesses and visitors to come together, share knowledge, have a great day out and celebrate the industries that help shape New Zealand.”
Inside the home industry pavilion, the creativity of the Upper Clutha community was on full display. From baking and preserves to flowers, art and crafts, entries filled the pavilion to the brim.
Home Industry Co-Convenor Liz Buggs said the section received a record number of entries this year.
“It’s fantastic to see that gardening, baking, arts and creativity are as strong as ever in the Upper Clutha,” she said. “The pavilion was buzzing all weekend, with hundreds of people streaming through to admire the entries. There’s something really special about seeing the pride and talent behind each exhibit.”
Thousands of visitors passed through the gates across the two days, reinforcing the Wānaka A&P Show’s important role in connecting communities and showcasing the very best of rural New Zealand.