As well as bees, bugs and butterflies, Council will be showcasing another 'b' at this year's Ashburton A&P show - biodiversity.

Democracy and Engagement Group Manager Toni Durham said Council staff are busy planning attractions for the Council’s marquee, which would be located between the food court and the emergency services area, the same spot as in 2022.

“We’re supporting the show’s theme of creating a buzz with bees, bugs and butterflies - none of which are possible without healthy biodiversity."

She said the show is expected to time in nicely with the Council's draft biodiversity strategy, which should be out for community consultation if the document is approved at next week’s Council meeting.

“We believe it takes a whole community working together to improve biodiversity around the district, so we'll be keen to talk to people, farmers and others about the draft strategy and hear what they think.”

Visitors to the marquee will be able to talk directly with staff about the strategy and take away a free kanuka seedling, grown in the Ashburton Domain nursery. There are 80 seedlings to give away on each day of the show, while stocks last.

Toni said the district's younger residents were encouraged to visit as well.

“We’ll have all the materials needed to make their very own bug hotel, which they can decorate and take home to their garden to encourage crawlies of their own."

There’ll also be a showcase of the things that Council currently does to support biodiversity, such as through its parks and reserves, and planting days.

Eco Educate will share Council’s site, giving out clever recycling and sustainability tips.

The Ashburton A&P Show will be at the Ashburton Showgrounds on 27 and 28 October.