The annual Tauranga A&P Show returns to Tauranga Racecourse today with all of the usual agricultural and pastoral events including equestrian, western riding and shearing competitions.

Isabel Meija, 8, being taught archery by Wayne Phillips dressed as a 13th Century archer. Photos: Tracy Hardy.

Plus, there's the popular wood chopping demonstrations, the Bay of Plenty Strongest Man contest, Medieval Faire, dog jumping contest, miniature ponies, and more.

There'll be pony rides, a Clydesdale wagon, petting zoo, fairground, water slides, face painting, climbing wall, bungee run, karate, games and a chance to pat the alpacas and have a go at hand-milking a cow for the children.

People can also browse through the range of trade sites and stalls including vintage tractor display, cars, tractors, outdoor furniture, artists, craft and clothing stalls, information sites and an entire section devoted to lifestyle block owners.

If the taste buds are tingling, there's a variety of food stalls providing refreshments and everything from candy floss to gourmet.

Event-goers can also go in the draw to win $1000, along with many more prizes up for grabs.

The A&P Show at Tauranga racecourse begins 10am-4pm. Tickets cost $10 for adults and free for children aged 12 and under. Door sales only.

Mason Burgess, 3, having an en-cow-nter with the farm animals.

Reg Davis, 74, from Rotorua competing in underhand.

Afaese Paea from Otara competing in the Farmer's Walk carrying 200kg.

Andrew Wain from Tauranga competing in the Farmer's Walk carrying 200kg.

Jett Hannah, 11, and Aliana Wills, 10, making jewellery at the Medieval Faire.

Five-year-olds Lucy and Tara McBride playing tug-o-war.

Joanna Sharp, 10, and Keira Sharp, 8, patting the cows.