About the Marlborough A&P Show

The Marlborough A&P Association has a proud history dating back to 1876, when the first meeting of the newly formed Marlborough Agricultural Association was held on March 11. From the beginning, the focus was on delivering one high-quality show each year — a tradition that continues today.

The Association originally owned six acres of land on Maxwell Road, supported by a £150 grant from the Provincial Government - half the purchase cost. By the 1920s, the grounds had expanded to include neighbouring land such as Hull’s paddock and the Alabama Hotel site, forming the foundation of today’s showgrounds.

This decade also saw the construction of key landmarks including the Sheep Pavilion, main grandstand, and the iconic brick wall with iron entrance gates - all of which still stand today as a testament to the vision and hard work of those early members.

Like much of the country, the Association faced challenges during World War II, with the 1942 and 1943 Shows cancelled. During this time, the showgrounds were taken over by the army and used as a temporary camp.

By the late 1950s, the Association was thriving again, with growing membership and record show entries. The 1959 Centennial Show marked 100 years since the founding of Marlborough Province and was officially opened by the Governor-General, Lord Cobham.

A significant turning point came in the early 1970s, following extensive negotiations with the Blenheim Borough Council. This led to the Marlborough Agricultural and Pastoral Act being passed in 1974, and in 1975 the grounds - now known as A&P Park - were officially designated a public recreational reserve. This milestone helped secure the long-term future of the Association.

The decades that followed saw continued development and growth. The Laidlaw Pavilion was built in 1972 to house the Home Produce section, while strong exhibitor numbers and increasing trade participation highlighted the Show’s ongoing popularity.

Today, the Marlborough A&P Association remains a cornerstone of the region’s rural and community life - proudly honouring its heritage while continuing to evolve for future generations.

Credit: “A Grand Parade – A History of the Marlborough A&P Association” by Cynthia Brooks Published by Marlborough A&P Association, 1997