Golden Shears World Champs 2024: Masterton Event Draws Global Shearers & Boosts Economy

Masterton, New Zealand – The 64th annual Golden Shears World Sheep Shearing and Woolhandling Championships are underway in Masterton, drawing competitors and spectators from across the globe. The event, often referred to as the “Wimbledon of shearing,” is a celebration of a skill deeply rooted in New Zealand’s agricultural heritage, and this year’s competition is proving to be one of the most international yet.

Shearers from 26 countries, including Mongolia, Chile, England, and France, are vying for the coveted Golden Shears title, as well as championships in wool handling and wool pressing. The influx of visitors has significantly impacted the town of Masterton, with Mayor Bex Johnson noting that the population has nearly doubled for the duration of the three-day event. “The hotels are full, the car parks are full, everything’s full,” Johnson said. “We’ve got people banging on the doors of our businesses and retailers, it’s just amazing.”

The Golden Shears isn’t just a competition; it’s a significant economic driver for the region. Forecasts predict a 7% increase in meat and wool export revenue this year, reaching $13.2 billion. Trade Minister Todd McClay highlighted the global reach of New Zealand wool, pointing out that even the carpet in the Indian parliament is made from New Zealand product. “It’s a great thing we’re seeing young people wanting to be out in rural New Zealand, out on farms wanting to shear sheep,” McClay added, underscoring the event’s role in promoting the industry to a new generation.

The championships rely heavily on volunteer support, with over 250 individuals contributing their time, many of them students from local Wairarapa schools. A key logistical challenge is managing the approximately 7,000 sheep donated by farmers throughout the country. The event provides a unique learning opportunity for these student volunteers, offering hands-on experience in agriculture and event management.

Wairarapa College agriculture teacher James O’Connor emphasized the educational value of the Golden Shears. “The big thing I like out of it myself is the fact they do voluntary work and to do that and deliver back to their community first in an area that they’re also passionate about I believe is really important,” he said. Students like Sarah Linton are gaining practical skills, learning how to handle and calm the sheep during the competition. Another student volunteer, Bane Shenk, expressed aspirations to compete in the championships himself one day, drawn to the combination of animal care, farming, and community involvement.

The event’s impact extends beyond the economic and educational spheres. The presence of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon alongside Minister McClay and local MP Mike Butterick demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting the primary industries. The Golden Shears serves as a platform to showcase the importance of these industries to the New Zealand economy and to foster a sense of pride in the country’s agricultural traditions.

The championships are a testament to the enduring appeal of sheep shearing as a skilled trade and a cultural practice. The dedication of the competitors, the support of the volunteers, and the enthusiasm of the spectators all contribute to the unique atmosphere of the Golden Shears. For many, it’s not just a competition, but a celebration of rural life and a vital part of New Zealand’s identity.

The event’s success is also a boost for the Wairarapa region, providing a welcome influx of tourism revenue and showcasing the area’s hospitality. The positive economic impact is clear, but the event also offers a valuable opportunity to promote the region’s attractions and to foster a sense of community pride. As the championships continue, the focus remains on the skill and dedication of the shearers, the hard work of the volunteers, and the enduring legacy of the Golden Shears.