Kids & Family
After two years of cancellations due to Covid-19, the Southland A & P Show is back for 2023.
Twelve months of planning are coming together, as the Southland A & P Association gears up for its 2023 show.
The show weekend has been extended in 2023, starting with the Friday Night Market on Friday, March 3, with food, crafters and entertainment from 5:30pm and all proceeds going to Ronald McDonald House.
On Saturday, March 4, Donovan Park on Bainfield Road will be transformed yet again for the 103rd Southland A & P Show.
With almost 10,000 people traversing the association’s last show in 2020, the committee has been working hard behind the scenes to bring together a show that promises to be the best one yet, Southland A & P Association president Paula Bell says.
“This year’s theme is Celebrate Southland, to bring everyone together after a couple of really tough years and recognise the fantastic community we have here in the south,” Paula says.
“We’re thrilled to have Dad, TV personality, mental health advocate and all round good bugger Matt Chisholm headlining this year’s show.”
“Somehow our amazing committee have managed to bring even more attractions and entertainment to this year’s show.
Woodchopping is back in 2023 along with the XO Carnival, with a range of children’s entertainment. This year features a new event – the Murihiku Strength Challenge, where competitors from all over the region will battle it out for the title of Southland’s Strongest Person.
Two stages will showcase southern talent, with the Kiwiskips Food Court and the community stage featuring a large array of community groups.
The Lifestyle Block has been locked in as a show regular, as a trade section dedicated to businesses that are tailored to suit those living on lifestyle blocks.
More than 50 crafters will also have their goods up for sale in the PowerNet Crafters and there will be animals galore in the popular VetSouth Petville petting zoo.
New for 2023 is the Whats On Invers ‘Kids Corner’ with bouncy castle and other fun things for kids to play on.
An A & P Show would not be complete without the usual attractions, with the equestrian section, sheep, cattle and donkeys all securing similar entries to last year, rounding out the show.
“We could not be more excited for this year’s Southland A & P Show, which continues to grow as well as showcase and celebrate our rural way of life in the deep south.”
Gates open on show day, Saturday, March 4, at 9am. Tickets are $10 for adults and children under 16 are free.
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