The beginning of the show season has been blessed with fine weather despite the various Spring storms throughout the month.

The Lifestyle Fieldays in Maungaturoto was held in a  wonderful setting beneath the volcanic peaks, and was enhanced by a warm day that never became uncomfortable thanks to a cooling breeze off the Kaipara Harbour.

The turnout, both exhibitors and public was considerably down on last year’s record attendance. Those who came had the opportunity of plenty of ‘one on one’ time with stall holders.

The purpose of the day was educational and there was a running series of lectures in the club buildings on a variety of topics relevant to the ‘lifestyler’.

The star speakers were Ian and Dianne Grant, authors of ‘The Small Farming Revolution’, and Owen McShane of the Centre for Resource Managment Studies.

All three had very positive messages, and encouragement, for those thinking of tackling the dream of ten acres in the country. Much innovation has come from those on smaller blocks, of which the three presented many examples.

Dr Colleen Jamieson spoke on the issues of climate change and how they could effect the small block holder. She suggested that as a nation we could plant trees and make money watching them grow using the Emissions Trading Scheme as a vehicle. Manuka in particular is the ‘wonder plant’ recommended for this idea, far superior to Pinus Radiata from just about every angle.

First held as long ago as 1842, The Bay of Islands A&P show is the oldest in the country. Big crowds were much in evidence as usual, and even if there is a recession on, all the usual prizes and activities seemed to be well patronised.

The large marquee at the entrance was filled with some of the best wines in the North, plus examples of the various oils - Olive and Acovado – appropriate for the climate and now assuming a quality equal to anything in the world.