Each year, Agrodome opens its gates for Locals Day – a chance for the Rotorua community to enjoy the farm, catch up with friends, and give back to local causes. This year’s event, on Saturday, 9th November, celebrates Shaun the Sheep’s 30th anniversary, with a share of the day’s takings supporting Dementia Lakes and The ChildRen First (CR1) Project – Ngongotahā Football Club.

Locals can enjoy $5 Farm Shows and $10 Farm Tours (just bring proof of address), along with free activities like face painting, crafts, giveaways, and games hosted by More FM. Shaun the Sheep and Bitzer will be out meeting fans, and there’ll be plenty happening across the paddocks from 9am to 5pm.

“It’s so important because we’re all connected to the community,” says Natasha Hislop, Sales Executive at Agrodome. “Most of our staff have their own whānau locally, so giving back in a genuine way really matters to us.”

Since opening in 1972, Agrodome has been part of Rotorua life. Families, schools, and visitors have long gathered here for the farm shows and tractor tours, but it’s the community events – like Locals Day – that keep the place feeling close to home.

Staff from Dementia Lakes will be there on the day, running games and activities and chatting with anyone curious about dementia | mate wareware or looking for advice or support.

“We’re honoured to be part of this year’s Locals Day and grateful for local support,” says Senior Dementia Advisor Janine Appleby. “Events like this help people see dementia as part of everyday life – not apart from it.”

Agrodome’s annual event has become a local favourite – a day that celebrates what makes Rotorua special: its people, its generosity, and its strong sense of community. For Dementia Lakes, it’s a moment to share what living well with dementia looks like, and to be part of a community that genuinely cares.

Agrodome Locals Day – Saturday, 9th November 2025, 9 am to 5 pm.
Bring your proof of local address and enjoy a day of farm fun for a good cause.

Find out more at www.agrodome.co.nz.

Dementia Lakes, covering the Rotorua and Taupō regions, is part of the Dementia New Zealand network – working together to help people across Aotearoa live well with dementia | mate wareware.