The much-anticipated winter Fieldays is back, showcasing agricultural trade, entertainment, education, and innovation.
The event’s opening day witnessed a perfect blend of Waikato winter weather, breathtaking views with sunrise streaming through bouts of low-lying fog, and an overwhelming sense of excitement.
The event commenced with a traditional pōwhiri and raising of the New Zealand National Fieldays Society and New Zealand flags, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the society’s chair, Jenni Vernon.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins and representatives for Tumuaki o te Kiingitanga Hone Thompson, attended the opening of the 55th annual Fieldays.
Peter Nation, CEO of the society, said it was truly heartwarming to witness such loyalty and enthusiasm in a climate of economic uncertainty.
A spokesperson for Fieldays said exhibitors were encouraged by the foot traffic.
Nation said that in the face of current and foreseeable challenges, particularly for those living and working in recently cyclone-affected areas, Fieldays aims to bring a ray of hope.
“The mood today from those through the gate has been buoyant and we hope that a day out at Fieldays will shed a bit of light on an otherwise difficult situation,” he said.
Addressing sustainability and climate change, Fieldays this year launched the long-awaited Fieldays Sustainability Hub. The grand opening ceremony commenced with a karakia and featured speakers, including Hipkins and Associate Minister for the Environment Hon Peeni Henare.
The prime minister acknowledged the value of New Zealand’s produce and exports, and how the country’s clean, green, sustainability-focused record makes it one of the most desirable primary industry producers in the world.