Ashburton A&P Show president Ben Stock is heading into his second and final year at the helm, and he’s determined to go out with a bang.

With the theme Cultivating Community, this year’s show is all about connection, collaboration, and good old-fashioned country fun.

“The A&P is about being that link between town and country,” says Stock.

“At least once a year we want to bring everyone together in a fun, educational way. Communities achieve much more collectively than as individuals, and the show is a great way to celebrate that.”

The 2025 programme promises plenty of fresh highlights.

Pendarves and Hinds Young Farmers are teaming up for a Bark Up, bringing their Huntaways and stock dogs into the bar area on Saturday.

The show will also host its first-ever chili eating competition, run by Christchurch-based Spicy Boys.

Contestants will pay $50 to enter, with prizes for the top three and plenty of fiery entertainment for spectators.

The Clash of the Colleges returns, double the size of last year, with more than 200 intermediate and secondary students testing their skills in practical, farm-themed challenges.

Food also takes centre stage, with Formosa Restaurant and LeaderBrand teaming up to give away free vegetable stir-fries, while the Pacifica community will prepare a traditional umu - similar to a hangi.

Local restaurants will once again compete in the Burger Bash, creating burgers with Mid Canterbury produce for the public to judge.

The Celebrity Shears are back too, with reigning champion Kim Reid defending her title against local personalities.

For those looking to make a day of it, boutique picnic spots around the main oval can be booked, giving families or businesses prime real estate at the heart of the action.

Alongside the new attractions, the favourites remain firmly in place.

The animal and pet shed - a hit with children last year - returns even bigger, joined by vintage machinery, go-karts, and pony rides.

An alpaca show will take place on November 1, while the Trans-Tasman dog trials, hugely popular two years ago, will also return.

Stock says the committee has been key to keeping the programme fresh.

“We’ve been really lucky to attract new members with fresh energy and ideas. Times are tough, so we’re working harder than ever to give people a great experience. The show is about the whole community, and it only happens because of the community.”

With ticket prices now set at $20 for adults, and free entry for school-aged children, Stock says providing value is top of mind.

“If we’re asking more, we need to give more too. That’s why we’re adding new ideas on top of the old favourites.”

As his presidency draws to a close, Stock has a simple message for Mid Canterbury:

“Just come along. Get yourselves through the gate and let us entertain you. We’re working really hard to make sure the Ashburton A&P Show is something the whole community can be proud of.”