The competition is part of the PGG Wrightson National Shearing Circuit.
For only the second time in its 48-year history, the shears this year will feature a transtasman blade-shearing battle.
Mr White said the committee was hoping for about 160 entries over the two days.
Doors open at 6.30pm tonight for an official 7pm start, with the speed shears competition and challenges for Young Farmers groups.
Tomorrow, the competition starts with open woolhandling at 7.30am, followed by machine heats and finals later in the evening.
It had been a busy week for organisers, preparing about 1200 sheep, and the Waimate Stadium, for the event.
Next year, the shears will move to the Waimate showgrounds, in a redeveloped and extended Dempsey Pavilion.
Mr White said a donation box would be at the stadium tonight and tomorrow for anyone wishing to give money to the project.
