Stone-spitting competition offers another bite at cherry

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Competitors at the New Zealand Cherry Spitting Championships focus on distance not style. Photo: Stephen Jaquiery
Cherries have hit the shops in plenty of time to practise spitting the stones ahead of the national championships later this month.

The annual New Zealand National Cherry Stone Spitting Championship will be held on December 27 at McNulty House, in Cromwell.

Competitors register on the day from 11.30am and anyone wearing red this year will receive an extra cherry — and chance to set a record.

Cromwell & Districts Promotions Group event manager Kelly Cruickshank-Giles said there were competition sections for all ages.

"The event is always a hit with locals and visitors.

"With some entertaining competitiveness and lawn games for the kids.

"It’s a fun day in the sun, so come along and have a go."

Practice might be needed to beat last year’s men’s winner, seasoned competitor Aaron Collins, who sent his cherry flying 9.3m.

The women’s event was won by Anna Bassett with a distance of 6.8m after a tense tie-breaker with Dorothy McHugh.

While showcasing the sweeter and lighter side of life in Cromwell, the event also highlighted the region’s dedication to promoting horticulture, community spirit and family-friendly entertainment, Mrs Cruickshank-Giles said.