It could come down to a millimetre. They’ll come under the judges’ microscope at Arrow-town’s The Fork and Tap from about 5pm on Wednesday, when one will be crowned the winner of this year’s Arrow-town Autumn Festival Beard-Growing Competition. It’s one of the first events for this year’s festival, and one of several dusted off from years gone by to mark the 40th anniversary of the community-run, volunteer-led event. The hairy showdown follows — competitors are battling it out for longest beard, most creative, people’s choice and best moustache — while simultaneously the 40th anniversary fireworks and street party will get under way at Wilcox Green. The Autumn Fest continues till next Sunday — see next week’s Mountain Scene for more info.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 10, 2026 22:02 UTC