Wellington and Hutt Valley Agricultural and Pastoral Association Inc.

History

HistoryThe Wellington and Hutt Valley Agricultural and Pastoral Association ran A & P (agricultural and pastoral) shows that were a major annual event in Upper Hutt from the 1950s to the 1970s, a period when Upper Hutt was evolving from a rural area to an industrial and suburban city.

The first shows were held under the auspices of the Hutt Valley Pony Club from 1946. In 1950 the show was run by the Hutt Valley Pastoral and Agricultural Association – it changed its name to the Wellington and Hutt Valley Agricultural and Pastoral Association the following year.

Initially featuring horse, cattle and dogs, the show grew over time to include everything from pigs, pigeons, sheep and shearing to wood chopping competitions, national dancing, jam and baking contests, dahlias and gladioli shows, a children’s pet parade, beauty contests, and of course an array of sideshows and rides. Wi Tako (now Rimutaka) Prison regularly took out top prizes with pigs from the prison’s pig farm. The Grand Parade of prize-winners was always a highlight, and entertainment included novelty acts such as escapologist Ian Joy and Echo the Wonder Horse, live music, skydiving demonstrations and a ‘catch the greasy pig’ contest.

A & P shows were held in Upper Hutt until 1976, when the Association was wound up. From 1977 they were replaced by a Summer Carnival.

Photos

Grand Parade, A & P show, c. 1970

Details

Date established1950Date disestablished1976

Also known as

Alternative nameHutt Valley Pastoral and Agricultural AssociationFor the years1950

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Wellington and Hutt Valley Agricultural and Pastoral Association Inc.