Media Release
4 March 2016
DIY living, robots and gastronomic delights
The countdown is on for the annual Central Districts Field Days, the largest regional agricultural event in the country,
featuring the latest farming technology, agricultural developments and rural innovation. From 17-19 March, more than 550
national and international displays look to attract more than 30,000 visitors from around New Zealand.
The three day event offers something for everyone from farming and food production to marketing, research and
technology. One key attraction for the more DIY-savvy attendees is the Rural Lifestyle Pavilion, a marquee dedicated to
home and lifestyle goods, focusing on rural homes and family. DIY extraordinaire and The Block NZ season three
contestant Jo Neal will host two sessions a day on Friday and Saturday on ‘finding your interior style.’ Jo will use her
experience to inspire Kiwis and offer tips on new and unique ways to add their own personal touch to their homes.
Events Manager, Cheryl Riddell says it’s exciting to see fresh Kiwi talent at the Central Districts Field Days.
“New Zealand has seen a ‘nesting’ craze emerge in Kiwi homes over the past six months, and having access to Jo Neal is
bound to motivate even those less-inclined to DIY to express their personal style.”
Showcasing innovation and supporting local businesses is at the heart of the Central Districts Field Days, and 2016 will
see the latest in robotic pasture sensing at the Massey University stand, and local wine and produce at the Taste of
Central Districts marquee.
Massey University is using robots to transport specialised sensors over pasture to gather information on both the
pasture and the soil to help farmers make the best management decisions. The robot prototype will be on display, and
staff will be on-hand to discuss how the sensors on the robot can make pasture maps that show the amount and exactly
where nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorous and selenium are.
For foodies, the Taste of Central Districts marquee will be providing sustenance and tantalising taste buds with the
likes of Ruahine Wines, Pheasant Creek Wines, Base Camp Venison Salami and seasonings from Down at the Farm.
The ever popular Rural Prize will be up for grabs where one lucky rural address visitor will walk away with a brand new
Suzuki ATV & Brent Smith trailer full of donated gifts for the farm and home.
Central Districts Field Days will be held at Manfeild Park in Feilding from March 17-19, 2016 and is proudly supported
by Massey University, Bayleys, Meal Time and CLAAS Harvest Centre.
For more information or to purchase tickets visit: http://www.cdfielddays.co.nz/
ENDS