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About the Poverty Bay Showgrounds
Set across 40 hectares of country in the city, the Poverty Bay Showgrounds is one of Tairāwhiti’s most iconic community venues and the proud home of the Poverty Bay A&P Association. Rich in history, tradition, and rural heritage, the grounds have been bringing town and country together for more than 150 years.
Established in 1875, the Poverty Bay Agricultural & Pastoral Association is one of the oldest surviving organisations in the Gisborne district, formed even before the Borough of Gisborne or Cook County Council. Originally located in a paddock behind Steggall’s Hotel near Bell Road, Makaraka, the Association moved several times through Waerenga-a-Hika, Patutahi, and the Makaraka Racecourse before finding its permanent home at Showgrounds Park in 1930. This was made possible through the generous donation of more than 36 acres of land by the Show’s first patron, Henry J. Tucker.
Today, the grounds remain one of the most picturesque and recognisable showgrounds in New Zealand. Surrounded by established trees, heritage buildings, and expansive green spaces, the venue continues to evolve while maintaining the traditions and community spirit it was founded on. Historic livestock facilities built more than 80 years ago are still used today, standing alongside modern additions like the Farmers Air Event Centre and the popular Motor Camp.
At the heart of the grounds is the annual Poverty Bay A&P Spring Show, held every October on the weekend before Labour Weekend. Attracting more than 30,000 visitors each year, the Show is renowned throughout New Zealand for its mix of agriculture, entertainment, competition, and community. Visitors can enjoy equestrian showing, dressage, carriage driving, show jumping, speed shearing, chopping, fencing, dog trials, livestock competitions, cooking, dancing, debating, the ever-popular Farmyard, live entertainment, food vendors, amusement rides, and more than 200 trade exhibits across the two-day event.
The Showgrounds, however, are much more than just the A&P Show. Throughout the year the venue hosts weddings, trade shows, equestrian competitions, community fundraisers and private functions. The Farmers Air Event Centre offers a spacious and versatile indoor venue suited to events of all sizes, while the surrounding grounds provide plenty of outdoor space and flexibility.
The Showgrounds are also home to a peaceful and family-friendly Motor Camp, offering powered and non-powered sites, cabins, and pet-friendly camping close to Gisborne city and beaches while still retaining a relaxed country atmosphere.
Weddings at the Showgrounds have become increasingly popular thanks to the unique rustic setting. As a blank canvas venue with plenty of parking, couples can even enjoy beautiful photo opportunities without ever needing to leave the venue.
What truly sets the Poverty Bay Showgrounds apart is the people behind it. The Association is supported by a passionate committee, volunteers, members, sponsors, exhibitors, and supporters who dedicate countless hours each year to ensuring the grounds and events continue to thrive for future generations. With more than 1,100 member families, membership remains among the highest in New Zealand and reflects the strong connection the community has with the Showgrounds and the annual A&P Show.
The Poverty Bay A&P Association remains committed to celebrating rural life, supporting agriculture and local industries, creating memorable community experiences, and preserving the heritage and traditions that have shaped the region for generations.
Meet Pat Sherriff
President of the Gisborne A&P Association
When Pat Sherriff first came to help at the Show nearly two decades ago, it was only meant to be for a day. Now he has proudly taken on the role of President of the Poverty Bay A&P Association.
Pat continues a proud family legacy, following in the footsteps of generations of Sherriff's involved in the Show. Coming from a strong equestrian background, with parents who were highly accomplished riders, Pat also rode and competed from a young age.
Raised at Mangaheia Station, Pat later spent time in Whanganui, Taihape, and overseas before returning home to Tairāwhiti. Today, he and his wife Aimee lease 500 hectares at Māhia, where they run a bull finishing operation while raising their two boys, Pete and Mac.
For Pat, the Show is about more than just the event itself. It marks the start of spring and is a chance for the community to come together, a time when people head in from the hills and out from town to reconnect. It’s also something special for his own family, with his kids now growing up enjoying the Show just as he once did.
As President, Pat is proud to lead a dedicated executive and acknowledges the vital role volunteers play. He believes they are the real strength behind the Show, contributing countless hours to ensure its success and the continuation of a long-standing community tradition.
Behind the scenes, Pat is focused on carrying forward the legacy of those before him, while ensuring the Showgrounds remain a sustainable and thriving hub for the region into the future.
Meet Stephen Thomson
Vice President of the Gisborne A&P Association
Stephen Thomson, known to many as Dumpa, is a valued member of the Poverty Bay A&P Association and currently serves as Vice President, playing an important role both behind the scenes and on show day.
Stephen lives in Manutuke with his wife Nicole and their two young children, Jasper (6) and Sylvie (3). Family life keeps him busy, and like many involved in the Show, it’s something they can all be part of and enjoy together.
Professionally, Stephen works as a rural agent with Bayleys, giving him strong connections within the local farming and rural community. He is also one of the drivers behind the “Surfing for Farmers” initiative. These connections, along with his understanding of the industry, are reflected in the contributions he makes to the Show each year.
On show day, Stephen takes on a number of key roles. He helps MC the Bayleys Breakfast, brings energy to the Turihaua Heifer Challenge, and is involved in running the Rural Support Trust Community Challenge — all important parts of the programme that showcase the strength and spirit of the region.
For Stephen, the Show is about much more than just the two days. It’s the traditions built over generations, the camaraderie shared with the committee throughout the year, and the lead-up to the event that make it so special. There’s a real sense of pride in knowing you’ve played a part in creating something the whole community can enjoy.