Tapawera will be buzzing again this weekend with sheep shearers coming together from across the Top of the South and as far as Kaikōura and Canterbury to compete in the annual Tapawera Speed Shear competition.
Last year the competition drew a big crowd with the annual Music in the Mountains event being held at the same time.
“Last year people were really entertained, and many people said what a good day it was,” event organiser and local sheep and beef farmer Kerry Irvine says.
Kerry will once again take the stage as a competitor in several sections on Saturday. He says sheep shearing competitions are very competitive which makes for interesting watching. Judges assess the quality of the shearing, looking for clean and well-finished work, so it’s not all about speed.
Speed is a main factor, but shearers must balance speed with precision to avoid any nicks or cuts that could harm the sheep or affect the quality of the wool. And, like any other sports, shearing competitions have their stars and legends.
“Floyd Haare took the Tapawera Shears Open shearing title last year, he did a great job in the final shearing twenty sheep in 19 mins and 24.22 seconds, beating the runner up by more than two sheep. It was an enjoyable watch,” Kerry says.
There is a range of different competitions on the day including junior, senior, and women’s sections.
“It’s always a good day, something different for those who haven’t experienced it before, come and have a look,” Kerry says.
The event is being held on Saturday, 27 January, at the Tapawera Recreation Centre from 10am - 3 pm. Entry is free. Coffee and food carts on site.
