Rain Or Shine, The Show Will Go On; Auckland Easter Show Prepares ToWelcome Tens Of Thousands Through The Gates

Despite the forecast wind and rain, the Easter Show is going back to its roots with a focus on farming and sheep dog trials alongside a string of modern attractions as it prepares to open its gates tonight.

A beloved annual tradition, last year’s show saw 65,000 people attend, and this year organiser Dave Mee from SMC Events is expecting even bigger numbers.

“It’s an iconic part of the Kiwi easter calendar for both young and old. Even with rain forecast tonight and into Good Friday we’re expecting plenty of people through the gate especially with the huge range of indoor attractions we have on offer to keep families dry and entertained.”

From humble beginnings in 1843 the Easter Show started out as an agricultural event aimed at demonstrating excellence in farming practice, and after nearly two centuries in operation, it has evolved into one of New Zealand’s most iconic shows.

The four day show will play home to some thrilling new features including the indoor lifesize Dinosaurs of Patagonia exhibition, but also drawing on the show origins, attendees will be treated to a taste of nostalgia as around 60 sheep will be brought across from the neighbouring Cornwall Park to take part in the time-honoured tradition of sheep dog trials.

“The last time we saw this happen was around 10 years ago. It’ll definitely be a site to behold having sheep dogs herding in the central city suburbs. The attraction certainly speaks to the heart and history of the show.”

Adding to tradition, two generations of Mahons carnival operators will oversee all of the family favourites including the tea cups and New Zealand’s oldest carousel.

“The Mahon family is an Easter Show institution having run the rides as part of the show for decades. It’s great to see the traditional rides make a return, but they’re also going bigger and better than ever with their new Ali Baba ride and Ferris Wheel acquired from the Czech Republic.”

“Rain or shine they say the show will go on with the skilled team keeping a close eye on the forecast and making sure all the rides still operate safely through the conditions.”

A long-standing tradition for Kiwi adults and kids alike, the petting zoo will also make a return, opposite the sheep dog trials.

For the adrenaline junkies among us, a strongman competition and the Action Arena will provide all the thrills, showcasing some of the most dangerous and difficult tricks in FMX & BMX.

“The show features legendary FMX rider Nick Franklin, BMX superstar Jed Mildon - the first rider ever to complete a triple & quadruple backflip and the world’s top female BMX rider Ellie ‘Flying Kiwi’ Chew.”

“There’ll also be an appearance from up and coming BMX riders Oscar, William and Harry Pluck. Oscar left school to run away to join the circus and is performing at the Easter show with his brothers for the first time. At just 19, 16 and 13 years old they are definitely ones to watch.”

Other indoor activities include smaller amusement rides, an inflatable obstacle course, bouncy castles, laser strike, an ice skating rink and a free gaming zone with Just Dance and Fortnight challenges.

“It’s the perfect way to stay entertained until the weather clears up on Saturday.”

After a two-year covid hiatus and a tough economy Mee wants the show to provide laughter, entertainment and escapism for Kiwis who have been doing it tough lately.

“We are trying to increase the quality of entertainment but also keep our entry fee at an affordable level for families. Day passes are just $15 at the gate for adults and $10 for children, but if people take advantage of our early-bird online special now they can get them for $12.”

“We have a large amount of free entertainment at the show this year including a Gaming Zone, farm animals, sheepdog trials and the Action Arena. Amusements include a large $2 inflatable zone.”

The Easter Show brings families together and creates lasting memories. Don’t miss out on the action - join us for an unforgettable celebration at the 2025 Auckland Easter Show.

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