This four-day extravaganza pays homage to New Zealand's rural heritage while introducing a host of exciting new experiences for the whole family.
"The 10th edition is a significant milestone," said Annaliese Atina, managing director of Ford New Zealand. "Ford is supremely proud to support rural sports and communities across the country, and this event showcases the best of Kiwi rural culture and talent."
World-Class athletes featured:
- Jack Jordan – 3rd consecutive Stihl World Champions Trophy Champion
- Steph Dryfhout – The 2024 International Women's Tree Climbing Champion
- Matthew Ragg – NZ's strongest man and the fourth strongest man in the world!
Exciting Sporting Championships – The Rural Games will host a range of thrilling championships, including:
- NZ STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® Championships – Men's, Women's, and Rookies categories
- NZ Speed Tree Climbing Doubles Championship with Guardian Trees and Husqvarna
- NZ Speed Fencing Championships with Future Post, StockAde and NZ Fencing Competitions
- The Tony Chapman NZ Speed Shearing Championship
- The Sir Eion Edgar Southern Hemisphere Highlander Championship with TransAg and New Holland
- NZ Egg Throw & Catch Championship with Steve Hollander
- NZ Gumboot Throwing Championship with Skellerup
- NZ Coal Shovelling Championship with Bathurst Resources and McIntosh Farm Machinery
- NZ Cowpat Throwing Championship with Speights and Federated Farmers
- Sam Strahan Memorial Sheep Dog Trials with PTS Logistics
- The Mutt & Mate Derby with Skellerup
Steve Hollander, Founder and Trustee of the New Zealand Rural Games, reflects on the journey:
"It took many years of hard work to get the Games off the ground, but here we are, celebrating our tenth edition! It's amazing to see how the event has grown and how it continues to bring rural communities together."
This year's event promises a unique mix of world-class athletes, historical games, and exciting new activities, including:
- Exclusive 10th Edition merchandise – Caps and T-shirts available at the Cocky Store
- ANZAXE Throwing Championship – In association with Neighbourhood Bar and Restaurant, showcasing New Zealand's best axe throwers (Sunday, March 9th)
- Have a Go Prizes – Complete five or more 'Have a Go' activities and stand a chance to win one of 30 spot prizes.
- Feilding Steam Engine Traction Rides – Hop on iconic steam engine rides around The Square for just $2 per ride (Under 5s ride free) – Sunday only
- Farmyard Putt Putt – Bringing the fun to the heart of Palmerston North's shopping district at The Plaza
- Expanded Permobil Relaxation Zone – A bigger, better space to relax while still watching all the action
- Chainsaw Sculpture Exhibition – Four talented artists showcasing and selling their work
Despite economic pressures, Hollander says the entry to the event remains free.
"Our board is committed to keeping the event free for everyone thanks to support of our sponsors and partners.” Alongside that residents of Palmy, Ashhurst, and Feilding will enjoy free bus rides all weekend thanks to Horizons Regional Council.
Special guests:
- Olympians Erica Dawson and Dylan Schmidt, Paralympian Cameron Leslie MNZM, former All Black Coach Sir Wayne Smith, Shearing legends Sir David Fagan and World Champion shearer Rowland Smith and Agri Edutainer Tangaroa Walker
- Minister of Sport Mark Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture Todd McClay, the Minister of Rural Communities Mark Patterson, the Associate Minister of Agriculture Andrew Hoggard, Opposition Agricultural spokesperson Jo Luxton alongside a dozen MPs from around the country
