The popular Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers' Free Farm Day is on again on Sunday, March 20, and everyone is invited to visit the McLeod's property in Welcome Bay to find out more about farming in New Zealand.

'Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers is the only province in New Zealand which holds a Farm Day event, with people coming from all walks of life, as well as many overseas tourists, enjoying where the ‘town meets the country' experience,” says farm day co-ordinator Steve Bailey.

The popularity of previous free farm days means another is to be held at Welcome Bay Sunday, March 20.

'Positive comments received and large crowds attending from previous years, has resulted in the continuance of this event.”

The farm day which runs from 10am to 2pm. is at McLeod's property located at 1189 Welcome Bay Road, just West of Te Puke. This is an easy location being the first farm on the right hand side down the Te Puke end of Welcome Bay Road.

'Not only is this day free, but it helps people learn about how farms are run, where their milk comes from and various other projects relating to farming. The rural sector is the base of the New Zealand economy and it is important that everyone has an insight into the industry and its workings.

'Farm Day is run to encourage a larger scale of interest into agriculture from future generations,” says Steve.

Farm Day has volunteers and businesses providing information, activities and some static displays which include shearing and drafting sheep, milking cows, feed supplies, fertiliser trucks, a range of farm animals, a milk tanker, tractors, etc.

There will also be lolly scrambles in a hay stack for children, plus on entry, children aged up to 12 years can pick up a colouring competition form to enter and be in to win a Warehouse voucher.

Fonterra will have some free drinks onsite, and other organisations such as DairyNZ, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, local farmers and shearers, will also be there to answer questions.

There will be free pony and cart rides as well as the opportunity to go in a gumboot throwing competition run by the Te Puke Young Farmers Club.

'This is a great day for all, and an experience in a lifetime for some. Limited food and drink will be available to purchase. Pukehina Fire Brigade will be providing a barbecue with tempting and tasty barbecue treats. A coffee vendor will also be onsite.

The day is sponsored by DairyNZ and Focus on Dairying Trust, Whakatane. DairyNZ's have provided free giveaway bags full of useful information.

'So don't forget to put this date on your calendar,” says Steve.

The free farm day is from 10am to 2pm at McLeod's property 1189 Welcome Bay Road, just West of Te Puke.