POVERTY BAY A&P ASSOCIATION SPRING SHOW
Friday 16 and Saturday 17 October 2026

WELCOME TO THE
GISBORNE SHOWGROUNDS

The Gisborne Showgrounds is a versatile venue offering far more than just the annual A&P Show. Set across 40 hectares in Makaraka, the grounds are home to the Farmers Air Event Centre, camping facilities, weddings, equestrian events and many community functions. The Showgrounds also provides a peaceful motor camp close to town and beaches, making it a popular destination for visitors year-round. We are all about bringing the Tairāwhiti community together.

About us

Established in 1875, the Poverty Bay Agricultural & Pastoral Association is one of the oldest surviving organisations in the Gisborne district. The Association was first formed in a field behind Steggall’s Hotel near Bell Road, Makaraka, before relocating several times over the years through Waerenga-a-Hika, Patutahi, and the Makaraka Racecourse.

In 1930, the Association found its permanent home at Showgrounds Park after the generous donation of more than 36 acres of land by the Show’s first patron, Henry J. Tucker. From these beginnings, the grounds grew into the iconic 100-acre site recognised throughout the region today.

Over the decades, the Association has continued to evolve while preserving its strong agricultural roots. Historic livestock facilities built more than 80 years ago remain in use today, reflecting the long-standing traditions of the Show and the generations of volunteers, exhibitors, competitors, and families who have helped shape its legacy.

For more than 150 years, the Poverty Bay A&P Association has played an important role in bringing town and country together and celebrating the rural heritage of Tairāwhiti.

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What we offer

The showgrounds host weddings, equestrian competitions, trade shows, and community functions throughout the year. From the spacious Farmers Air Event Centre, livestock and equestrian areas to camping and motorhome facilities, we have plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces that are flexible for any public or private event or your next trip away.

Your next event venue

The Farmers Air Event Centre is a versatile indoor venue located within the Gisborne Showgrounds, ideal for weddings, conferences, trade shows, community events, exhibitions, and private functions. With spacious facilities, flexible layouts, and easy access to surrounding grounds, it provides a practical and flexible space for events of all sizes year-round.

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Your wedding venue

We offer a unique blank canvas style setting for weddings, with spacious indoor and outdoor areas that can be tailored to suit your special day. From rustic country-style celebrations to elegant receptions, the grounds provide plenty of room for guests, catering, entertainment, and memorable photo opportunities in a historic picturesque setting.

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Somewhere to stay

Peaceful and spacious our camping facilities are just minutes from central Gisborne. Popular with travellers, event-goers, and families, the grounds provide powered and non-powered sites, easy access for motorhomes and caravans, and plenty of room to relax. The campground is also pet friendly, making it perfect for the whole family.

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The Annual
Gisborne A&P Show

The Poverty Bay A&P Spring Show is one of Tairāwhiti’s longest-running and most loved community events, bringing town and country together since 1875. Held annually at the Gisborne Showgrounds, the two-day event attracts more than 30,000 visitors each year and is renowned throughout New Zealand for its wide range of attractions, competitions, and entertainment.

The Show features equestrian showing, dressage, carriage driving, show jumping, speed shearing, wool handling, chopping, fencing, dog trials, dancing, debating, cooking, livestock competitions, and the ever-popular Farmyard packed with animals, reptiles, birds, and poultry. Visitors can also enjoy the Grand Parade, main arena entertainment, amusement rides, live music, food vendors, and more than 200 trade exhibitors across the grounds.

Combining rural tradition with family entertainment, the A&P Show continues to celebrate the people, industries, and community spirit that make Tairāwhiti unique.

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