The Wānaka A&P Show, held on March 13 and 14 this year, attracted more than 44,000 attendees — the largest crowd in the event’s history.
The figures, from an independent economic impact assessment, found the show generated $19.3m in spending that would not have occurred in the absence of the event.
The assessment also found the show was continuing to attract new audiences with 15% of attendees visiting the show for the first time.
Upper Clutha A&P Society chairman Keith Cooper said the results demonstrated the importance of the show to the local economy and community.
‘‘These figures support what our community has known for many years — the Wānaka A&P Show is much more than a two-day event.
‘‘It attracts visitors from throughout New Zealand, supports local businesses, showcases our rural heritage and creates a genuine sense of community,’’ he said.
Mr Cooper said the benefits of the show extended well beyond the event weekend.
‘‘A successful financial result ensures the Upper Clutha A&P Society, through the Wānaka A&P Foundation, can continue reinvesting more than $85,000 annually into grants, projects and initiatives that support sports clubs, emergency services, rural development, wellbeing, environmental projects and education opportunities.
‘‘In this way, the success of the show directly contributes to the strength, resilience and future prosperity of the wider Wānaka district,’’ he said.
The Wānaka A&P Foundation distributed funding to a wide range of local organisations each year.
Planning for the milestone 90th Wānaka A&P Show, to be held March 12 and 13, 2027, was already under way.
