From March 15-17 farmers, their families and other visitors descended on Feilding's Manfeild Park no matter the weather.
Despite blustery winds on Thursday people came out in droves to visit the 541 sites spread across the racecourse.
Events manager Cheryl Riddell was pleased with the numbers attending from across the region from Taranaki to Wellington and Hawkes Bay. "We had 38,910 people through our gates during the three days, more than last year."
And the field days general manager Craig Chapman says on Saturday people came from farther away. "I talked to someone who had made the trip from Waiuku. We're pleased with that."
Roger Fielder, Feilding, won the draw prize of a Suzuki quad and Brent Smith trailer filled with farm and home related prizes.
Riddell drew the name of New Plymouth resident Bryce Ballantine to win the goody basket from the Tastes of Central Districts marquee. This was the first year of Tastes of Central Districts and several stall holders who attended were happy with the number of sales and enquiries they fielded during the event.
Tony and Janet Johnson representing Prenzel were so happy with the results they want to return next year.
"We would do this again," Johnson said. "One woman came in
and knew exactly what
she wanted. She spent $300."
Ms Riddell said there were 112 new exhibitors and many more who have returned to the Central Districts Field Days after being away for some time, one of these being Westpac.
Palmerston North's Westpac rural manager Dave Hutchison said he and other rural managers were busy connecting with their customers and potential customers at their stall.
"It has been five years since we have come out to Central Districts Field Days," Mr Hutchison said. "Our customers are glad that we're back. Our tent's been full in the last two days. They're coming to talk about growing their businesses."
