The Wanaka Rodeo has been running since 1963 and is held annually on 2nd January. 

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Since 2011 the Wanaka Rodeo has been held at the permanent, purpose built grounds located on the outskirts of Albert Town. The arena, yards and viewing amphitheatre are capable of catering crowds of up to 6,000 spectators, plus corporate tents, and food stalls.  

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Like many voluntary events these days, the Wanaka Rodeo Club is dependent on sponsors to produce the annual rodeo. The cost to organise and run the event, as well as provide prize-money worthy of attracting quality competitors, would be beyond the Club’s ability to fund-raise. The relationship between the Club, its sponsors and many local supporters is worked on throughout the year by the Club’s committee.

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Some 30 plus members and loyal supporters of the Club all work exceptionally hard to host what is now recognised as one of the best rodeo in the country and one of the most popular with rodeo competitors.

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The Wanaka Rodeo is part of the South Island Christmas Circuit, comprising five rodeos, while there is a similar circuit run in the North Island over the same period. Wanaka offers very valuable championship points that the competitors keenly seek as they chase the various national titles.

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The Wanaka Rodeo Club is proud to promote the sport of rodeo in New Zealand and is very appreciative of the support it receives from the community of Wanaka and surrounds. For more than 50 years, the Club has provided a top class event that is firmly part of the Wanaka New Year’s experience to many thousands of visitors and locals. It plans to still be in existence to celebrate its 100th anniversary with the next generation of visitors and supporters. 

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