Move over snowmen, scarecrows now rule the roost! Stratford District Council (SDC) is calling on residents to register and create a scarecrow for this year’s iconic Stratford Scarecrow Trail.

The Scarecrow Trail is one of Taranaki’s largest scavenger hunts and a beloved fixture on the district’s calendar. From 31 October to 16 November 2025, trail hunters can discover community-made scarecrows tucked around corners and into gardens and businesses, with a share of $2,000 in prizes up for grabs for both scarecrow hunters and makers.

Online registrations are open at Stratford.govt.nz/Scarecrow until 4pm on Wednesday 8 October.

Those registering to make a scarecrow can enter one of four categories: Pre-school, Primary School, Business, and Open, with additional prizes across all categories for the best use of upcycled materials, and the coveted People’s Choice award.

“This is our ninth Scarecrow Trail, and we’re always amazed by what pops up in gardens, schools, farms, and shops,” says SDC Community and Economic Development Manager Saba Afzal.

“Last year we saw a scary crow scarecrow, Edvard Munch’s The Scream, and a gorgeous Queen Bee, to name just a few of the amazing entries, and we can’t wait to see what people dream up for this year’s trail.”

“Just entering to be part of the trail is something to crow about, but if you need extra inducement there are prizes on offer from our incredible supporters: CMK Chartered Accountants, New World Stratford, Fulton Hogan, Stratford Business Association, and Mitre 10 Stratford. We also want to thank Taranaki Electricity Trust for their continued support,” says Saba.

The Stratford Scarecrow Trail is open alongside the Taranaki Garden Festival, Fringe Garden Festival, and Taranaki Arts Trail.

In a Scarecrow Trail first, creators are being encouraged to keep their scarecrows up until 1 December so visitors to the Royal A&P Show, hosted in Stratford from 29 - 30 November, can do a little scarecrow hunting too.

“We have something unique here in Stratford; great eateries, cafés and art, our majestic Mounga, some of the best walks and scenery in Aotearoa, and we’re hoping for plenty of weird and wonderful scarecrows for people to discover. We can’t wait to show off what you make.”

“Let the scarecrow building commence!”

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