The scaled back Christchurch A&P Show hopes to attract 60,000 visitors in three days

The Christchurch Show’s new administrators remain optimistic that the slimmed-down version of the show will be a success after a turbulent period for event directors.

This year’s show started on Thursday after it was initially canceled in April because most of the Canterbury A&P Association board claimed they did not have the money to stage a show.

A “scaled down” version of the show was confirmed after a $5 million deal was struck between the Christchurch City Council and the board.

The show was subsequently revived – albeit in a reduced and different format – by event management company Event Hire, with most of the board replaced.

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Cabinet Secretary Sir David Carter has since taken control of the board.

He told RNZ the response so far had been positive.

Carter said he was hopeful of 50,000 to 60,000 in the next three days, but indicated those numbers could be eclipsed.

“It would be nice if we could do that,” he said.

One obstacle for Carter and co appeared to be the elements, with rain and showers forecast over the next three days.

“It stopped raining (Thursday),” he said.

‘People here seem to be having a great time at the moment.

“We just have to wait and see what is delivered.”

Even operating on a smaller scale, simply getting to the starting line was an achievement in itself, Carter said.

“Considering that I joined the board 93 days ago, it is a remarkable turnaround that we have achieved with a very good, unified general committee and board that has worked very well.”

The proceedings include the traditional livestock competitions, in which approximately 600 sheep took part.

“We have beef cattle, we have dairy cattle, we have alpacas, so the animals are here,” he said.

The organizers’ goal was to incorporate the “traditional elements” of the A&P show, including stall holders, food vendors, competitions and carnival rides.

Some of the ingredients to getting an A&P Show 2024 off the ground were the staff involved.

Event management company Event Hire floated the idea of ​​a scaled-back version of the show earlier this year.

The company’s president, Phil Anderson, said they couldn’t fathom the prospect of no A&P show.

“I mean, we’re involved in so many events and it just made us go ‘no show’ during Cup and Show week, which seems so strange,” he said.

Many of the suppliers who worked with the company suggested that the company participate.

“It seemed crazy, but then we submitted a proposal and here we are,” he said.

“It feels great.”

However, there was room for some innovation and fresh ideas.

Drone racing and lawn mower racing have been introduced this year.

“Some of the live entertainment and other elements have not been seen before,” Anderson said.

“I can’t wait to see the lawnmower race.”

While several schools only had a teacher day on Thursday, some opted for a field day for the show.

A group of students from RNZ spoke to them saying that “food, animals and more food” was the plan for the day.

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