Speed Shear they say, yes Shearing Sheep quickly and this is how it all begun at the Te Puna Rugby club in January 1999.

Now 25 years later, it is still running in January, a few years missed and a number of venue changes, the 22nd Te Puna Speed Shear is on this Saturday at The Point Ale House in Whakamarama, “bringing a little bit of country to town”.

Some of New Zealand’s top shearers come to compete for prize money, it is a date that they have marked on their calendars each year, says a spokesperson for the event.

“Shearing a lamb in 16 seconds can you believe it, this event is not for beginners.

“Shearers that come and compete travel far and wide to test their skills in shearing a lamb really quickly.”

Te Puna Speed Shear is run by a small group of people that have been organizing and running it for many years, it is an event that is run not for profit and the money that is raised at the event is donated.

This year the money is being shared, it will be going to Assistance Dogs New Zealand and the local Rescue Helicopter.

A raft of sponsors and volunteers donate their time and effort to make this event happen.

“This would not happen without the support of the community and all the great volunteers.”

Te Puna Speed Shear is from 5.30pm and prize giving follows after all the shearing has finished.

It is gold coin entry, spot prizes, and also a chiller to be sold on the night.

There will be a range of food available and chilled drinks so come along and see some of NZ’s top shearers compete.

Check out Te Puna Speed Shear on Facebook.