Farmer News
1 October, 2026
Family fun and country charm await
THE Coleraine Show is once again gearing up for a fantastic celebration of agriculture, rural life and the wider western district community, with the 2026 program offering something for everyone.
At the heart of the show (this year to be held on Saturday, November 7) is a strong focus on agriculture and the people who make our region what it is.
The show offers a wonderful opportunity for local producers, businesses and agricultural enthusiasts to showcase their skills, products and services, while also welcoming those from outside the industry to experience a taste of country life.
A highlight of this year’s program will be the Farmers Market, featuring Arteka Farming from Hamilton.
The market provides a great opportunity to discover locally produced goods and connect directly with the people behind them, celebrating the quality and diversity of agriculture across our region.
The ever-popular shearing and wool handling competitions will also return in 2026, coordinated by local Neil Langley.
These competitions are always a crowd favourite and provide a chance to see the skill, speed and precision involved in an important part of our region’s agricultural heritage.
Following the success of last year’s event, the Yard Dog Trials are also back and ready for another big year.
Run by Josh Latty, the trials showcase the incredible partnership between working dogs and their handlers.
This year, the show is pleased to expand the program to a two-day event, with a novice and training day held on the Sunday following the show.
The additional day will give up-and-coming competitors and dogs the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a supportive environment.
Wool will again have a strong presence at the show, with the wool competition hosted by Millie Austin from the AWN team.
Millie will bring her knowledge and expertise in the wool and wool fashion industries to the Coleraine Show, helping to highlight the versatility, quality and possibilities of a product that is such an important part of our agricultural story.
But the show isn’t just about competitions; it’s also about giving local producers and businesses a platform to tell their story and demonstrate what they do.
For visitors who may not have a connection to agriculture, the Coleraine Show provides a valuable opportunity to see firsthand the skills, knowledge and hard work that goes into producing the food, fibre and services that underpin our rural communities.
There will be plenty happening away from the livestock and agricultural events as well.
Live music, a special Kids Zone and rides will provide entertainment for families and visitors looking to simply relax and enjoy a day out.
The equestrian rings will once again be a major feature of the show, with talented horse riders taking to the arena to demonstrate their skill, horsemanship and dedication.
The equestrian events are always a fantastic spectacle and an important part of the show’s long-standing connection with the local horse community.
And, of course, no Coleraine Show would be complete without the Homecraft Pavilion.
This is where the creativity and talent of our local community really comes to life.
From knitted and crocheted woollen works to produce competitions, baking, preserves and crafts of all kinds, the pavilion celebrates what can be created from the produce, materials and skills found throughout our region.
The Coleraine Show is ultimately a celebration of community.
It brings together farmers, producers, exhibitors, competitors, families, businesses and visitors from across the western district for a day that celebrates both where we have come from and where we are going.
Whether you are involved in agriculture every day, have a passion for horses or working dogs, enjoy wool and craft, or simply want a great country day out with the family, the 2026 Coleraine Show is an opportunity to come together, support local and celebrate everything that makes our rural community special.
With so much to see and do at this year’s show, make sure you head to the Coleraine Showgrounds on Saturday, November 7.
The show will run from 8am until 6pm.