High-speed shingle shovelling and giant excavators pouring cups of tea are just some of the events planned at the Central Districts Field Days.
The biggest of the regional field days opened its gates at Manfeild Park in Feilding on Thursday.
Events manager Cheryl Riddell says the Met Service is forecasting fine weather and organisers are hoping that a more positive farming outlook, especially for dairying, will help to bring the crowds in.
Tractor pulling, featuring super-modified machines, is making a comeback to the field days after more than 20 years.
On the final of the three days, another event that will appeal to the machinery buffs is taking place: the national excavator competition, in which the machines are made to pour cups of tea.
