The fun-filled open day in Feilding that was postponed in October due to a water-logged showground is all set to go ahead this weekend (Saturday, 20 February).
It will be the town's first Combined Armed and Emergency Services Open Day featuring the Army, Airforce, St John Ambulance, Coastguard, Civil Defence, Fire, Navy and Police.
Not only is the event free but there is a grand prize draw with the chance to win a helicopter trip for 4 with the Square Trust.
Gates open at 9am and close at 3pm with plenty of free parking. All of the services will have equipment and vehicles on show and there will be four action-packed demonstrations throughout the day with flying, winching, armed police, dogs and much more.
At 2.40pm a recently restored World War II Spitfire will carry out a practice flight over the venue.
Other elements of the day's programme include recruitment and careers advice, competitions and challenges between the different services, and musical entertainment. There is plenty to please both kids and adults and food and refreshments will be on sale.
Local children have already been involved with the event designing images that have been incorporated into a poster to advertise the day.
Sgt Michael Lawton of Feilding Police said: "This is a great opportunity for us all to stand side by side and raise awareness of our roles and to interact with the local community in a friendly and informal environment. The first experience youngsters often have of our services is during an emergency, and this is a chance for them to see us in a less distressing situation and leave them with a more positive impression of who we are and what we do."
Media enquiries should be referred to Kim Perks on 06 351 2456 or 027 234 8256.