A new machinery event planned for Cromwell next Easter will attempt to set a world record for the largest gathering of Massey Ferguson tractors
Central Otago Tracks & Wheels will take place at the Cromwell Racecourse from 26 to 28 March 2027, with more than 1000 vintage tractors, trucks, earthmoving machines, steam engines and aircraft expected to be on display and in action.
The current Massey Ferguson record stands at 285 tractors, set at County Kildare in Ireland. Organisers have allocated 500 spaces for the Cromwell muster and are hoping to attract Masseys from throughout the South Island, from concours restorations to long-retired farm machines.
“We only need 286 Masseys to take the record off the Irish,” says Massey muster coordinator Peter MacDougall. “There are more than that sitting in sheds within an hour of Cromwell. Wash the bird muck off it, get it here, and be part of it.”
The event programme will include working earthmoving demonstrations, a 120m tractor pull, machinery parades, Clydesdales, steam and stationary engines, a local market and a kids’ zone. Aircraft will also fly into the adjoining airfield and form a static display along the fence line.
A permanent arena is being constructed at the racecourse, with local contractors and sponsors donating around $350,000 in earthworks and construction materials. Under the land-use agreement, a full-size rugby paddock will be incorporated into the centre of the parade ground and returned to the Cromwell community after the event.
“This is a community event,” says event lead Odette Hopgood. “The arena gets built by local firms for nothing, and when the show packs up, Cromwell gets a new rugby field.”
The not-for-profit event will be held every two years, with the 2027 show the first under a six-year venue agreement with Cromwell Racecourse. Organisers are expecting up to 10,000 visitors each day.
Machinery owners can register at tracksandwheels.co.nz
