Field days loss comes as a blow

• Published date: 02 November 2021
• Publication title: Ensign, The

The fixture, the largest event of its type in the South Island and second only to Mystery Creek nationally, is held every second year and draws a crowd of about 40,000.

It is the first time in its 40-year history it has been cancelled.

Gore Mayor Tracy Hicks said cancelling the event would have a significant impact on the district.

‘‘The income stream loss is going to be substantial.

‘‘There is no doubt the district will miss the vibrancy and the value that the field days bring [every second year].’’

That was not only about the sale of products at the site.

‘‘It’s the flow-on effect to the restaurants, food providers and accommodation providers.’’

Many community groups used the event to fundraise, Mr Hicks said.

He sympathised with the committee which made the call.

‘‘Who knows what February is going to bring.

‘‘In reality definitely the right choice and probably the only choice they had.’’

Mataura Licensing Trust general manager Mark...