Northland Field Days patron reflects on event's rain-soaked beginnings
Northland Field Days patron Ross Newlove remembers the inaugural field days he attended 40 years ago.
The event has long been a highlight on NRC’s annual calendar, with the council proudly supporting and attending the Field Days for more than two decades. It provides significant opportunities for staff and councillors to connect face‑to‑face with communities from across the region, as well as visitors from further afield.
Over the years, NRC’s presence at the Field Days has continued to grow and evolve. The council’s stand has showcased a wide range of business areas- from land management advice on highly erodible soils to hands‑on pest management guidance.
Northland Regional Council consistently uses the event to raise awareness of pests and diseases threatening the region, including freshwater threats like the invasive clam.
Visitors have come to expect engaging displays, memorable features, and practical demonstrations.
Highlights from past years include a towering kauri tree complete with a wash‑down station, the much‑talked‑about ‘pest hut’ and trap shop, impressive sculptures such as Guy Bowden’s ‘Hinaki Waharua’, fish tanks featuring unwanted pest species like ‘Snappy the Turtle’ and the ever‑popular weed garden and trap demonstrations.
Regular attendees return each year to see what’s new - whether it’s the latest pest‑food giveaway, updated advice, or simply to share stories of their own environmental progress, from possum trapping successes to wetland restoration photos.
In 2024, NRC’s site won “Best Outdoor Site,” recognising the significant planning, coordination, and dedication of staff across multiple teams.
The Field Days are also a valuable economic driver, drawing exhibitors and visitors from outside the region who support local businesses across Kaipara and beyond. Adding to the community experience, NRC has collaborated with various agencies over the years - one of the most popular partnerships being with NorthTec cookery students, who helped create the council’s well‑loved pest‑based food giveaways.
In 2025, the wallaby quesadillas proved a standout attraction, drawing large crowds and sparking meaningful conversations about pest impacts and biosecurity.
This year, NRC will once again be located at its familiar sites I1 and I2, with a strong focus on current biosecurity threats including Madagascar ragwort and the invasive freshwater clam. Alongside the regular features - pest plants, pest animals, biodiversity, climate action, and land management. The team looks forward to welcoming visitors to celebrate the 40th anniversary of this iconic Northland event.
Natasha Stubbing is marketing and engagement manager, Northland Regional Council.
