Canny southerners stretch their wish lists

First held in 1982 at the Bowmar's property, and attracting 60 exhibitors, this year's event – two years in the planning – saw 762 trade exhibitors and a 3ha increase in the site area over the 2014 event.

About 42,000 people passed through the turnstiles over the three-day event, peaking at 20,000 on day two. They experienced hot, dry days looking at the latest technology and innovation for the farming sector, or perhaps enjoying a quart of Dunedin's finest in the on-site bar.

Despite the less-than-rosy outlook for the dairy sector, increasingly important part in Southland's economy, farmers and contractors spoken to were reasonably optimistic, but careful, having moved opportunistic purchases to the wish list, but happy to take a close look at products or services with potential to reduce costs or increase profits. This outlook was confirmed by exhibitors who reported fewer sales 'on the day' but saw good levels of enquiry for subsequent follow-up.

To keep the field days looking fresh, new events such as a Southern Man Competition, Speed Shears and the Golden Pliers augmented the tried-and-tested classics such as the Tractor Pull and the Young Farmers Fencing Competition.

The region's affinity with the oval ball was also reinforced in the new Farmlands Cup – a pre-season rugby game between the Super 15 Champion Highlanders and the neighbouring Crusaders. This was held on the Thursday evening at the Booth family park adjacent to the showground, a hard fought game in which the Crusaders scored a last-minute try to tie the game 19:19. Bring on 2018 for a re-match?