One of New Zealand's largest agricultural events is the latest casualty of the COVID-19 crisis, cancelling this year's show and launching a public fundraising campaign to stay afloat.
The annual New Zealand Agricultural Show in Canterbury attracts a crowd of over 100,000 across three days in November.
But now the Canterbury A&P Association who organise the event has announced this year's show has been cancelled, due to financial pressure and the health risk to the public because of COVID-19.
It said in a statement the decision was made with a heavy heart.
"This is the first time that the South Island will not see its biggest springtime event since its last cancellation owing to World War II."
Event director Geoff Bone said there would be a huge sense of loss by everyone associated with the show.
"The show is a highly anticipated part in many of our calendars. From the kids who begin training their cattle to compete in April to the families that look forward to the Shetland Steeplechase and the candy floss.
"The amount of work that goes into putting on the show is colossal, and the volunteers should be extremely proud of what they have grown the show to be. This is a hard time for all involved," said Bone.
The event was now fighting for survival and in a precarious financial state.
"The Association was adamant that it made the decision while it was still in a financial position to meet its current obligations and return money to those businesses that had already invested in the 2020 Show.
"This has meant that we have exhausted our reserve funds and are in a situation where restarting in 2021 is in doubt."
A fundraising initiative has been launched to try and save the event from going under.
The Show Saviour campaign calls on anyone who has a connection with the show to help it fight for survival.
Bone said without external support, the future of the show was unlikely and there was the potential that this community and a significant pillar of New Zealand's history would be lost.
"The Association will continue to promote rural excellence and share information on the great achievements happening in our industry. Now, more than ever, we must push for community spirit.
"Whether it is big or small, your donation could just save the show and ensure the community is back together in 2021."
