Crane Towers Over Variety Of Displays (Press, 14 November 1963)

The Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association's showgrounds featured a spectacular array of attractions in 1963, highlighted by a towering crane that stood at 145 feet, supporting an eight-and-a-half-ton concrete bridge beam. This impressive machinery was part of a large display occupying 250,000 square feet, aimed to match the excitement generated by the traditional ferris wheel. Among the machinery, the spotlight was on the diminutive “cub” tractor, measuring only 3 feet in height with a power of 7½ horsepower, significantly less than the usual farm tractors which average around 35 horsepower. These small tractors, recently imported from the United States, were put to practical use by the Dunedin City Council for tasks such as towing mowers, and during the show, they entertained children by towing carts. Another fascinating feature of the show was the percussion-rotation rock drills, capable of drilling 4-inch holes in solid rock up to 250 feet deep. With a price tag of £7500 each, these machines were primarily deployed in quarries and were currently in operation on the Manapouri tail-race project, utilising tungsten carbide bits for efficiency. The side-show alley expanded significantly this year, attracting crowds with a variety of activities, including “dodge ’em” cars and entertaining attractions such as a recently transitioned performer promoting their unique story. Early visitors from Templeton Farm enjoyed a quieter experience as they explored the exhibits, including a bustling Canterbury Court where judges sampled an array of home-baked goods like fruit cakes, preserves, and cheeses. In addition to culinary delights, the show featured displays beneficial to prospective farmers. The Department of Agriculture provided a geographical map of central Canterbury, delineating land quality and offering soil samples. There was also a display from the Canterbury Horticultural Society, showcasing a diverse selection of plants for alpine gardeners and an exhibition on herbs including thyme, sage, and majoram. Promotion of New Zealand lamb in international markets was illustrated through vibrant posters in the New Zealand Refrigerating Company's building, featuring appetising images of lamb dishes, including a whimsical one of Japanese wrestlers being served New Zealand lamb. Notably, attendees ventured to the Canterbury Frozen Meat Company's tent to admire a striking 3-foot high block of ice enveloping a frozen bouquet of rhododendrons, lilacs, and azaleas. Lastly, Lincoln College set up an educational tent titled "Bossmanship," offering guidance on effective employee management for farmers. A lively poultry tent added to the atmosphere, with roosters of various colours vocalising throughout the day, providing a quintessential element to the vibrant show.

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