Central Districts Field Days 2027

What it is

Central Districts Field Days calls itself New Zealand’s largest regional field days. It attracts more than 27,000 people over three days each March to Manfeild in Feilding, in the Manawatū, to connect with and explore the future of New Zealand’s primary industries. The 2027 event runs from Thursday 18 to Saturday 20 March.

What to expect

Field days are part trade show, part entertainment. Expect hundreds of exhibitors with farm machinery, vehicles, technology and rural services, plus competitions and demonstrations. Recent programmes have included:

• The CD Field Days Tractor Pull, powered by Brandt
• The national final of the CCNZ CablePrice Excavator Operator Competition
• Power fencing and post driving competitions
• The Golden Loader Championship from the Southern North Island Wood Council
• A strongman qualifier, food courts and a Kids Zone with bouncy castles and inflatables

The 2027 What’s On guide is released closer to the event.

Who it suits

Farmers and rural businesses, but organisers point out it is for “farmers and foodies, tech-heads and townies” too. It is a good day out for families with kids who like big machines.

Tickets

Tickets are sold online or at the gate. Buying online gets you into the express entry lane. There are adult, senior (65+), child and family passes (two adults and up to three children), and children under 5 are free. There are no ATMs or cash-out facilities on site.

Getting there

Manfeild is in Feilding, about 20 minutes’ drive north of Palmerston North (an estimate). Enter the public car park off South Street or Kawakawa Road; parking is free. The 311 bus runs from Palmerston North to Feilding, but there is no stop at Field Days itself. Gold and Black Taxis have offered discounted packages in past years.

Accessibility

Mobility parking is signposted from South Street. Mobility scooters can be hired from Mobility Manawatū at the main entrance for $30 a half day or $50 a full day. Guide dogs are welcome; other dogs are not allowed.

Where to stay

Palmerston North has the widest range of hotels and motels, and organisers also suggest farm stays and glamping around Āpiti and Kimbolton. Motorhomes can park at Manfeild behind the grandstand for a fee.

What to bring

Comfortable shoes for a big site, a hat, sunscreen and a jacket, plus a card for purchases.

Make a trip of it

Organisers recommend the Friday morning Feilding Farmers Market, the Coach House Museum, the Cross Hills Gardens in Kimbolton and He Ara Kotahi, the riverside pathway in Palmerston North. The Manawatū sits on the route of our 10-day North Island road trip.