New residents of the Stratford district have been propped up, plumped with straw and final flourishes applied to smiles, scowls and smiles, as Stratford’s famous scarecrow trail opens for the 2024 hunt.

The Scarecrow Trail, which runs from November 1 to 17, is one of Taranaki’s biggest treasure hunts. There are more than 50 community-made scarecrows to discover across the Stratford district, with prizes worth $2,000 on offer for scarecrow makers and hunters.

Stratford District Council community and economic development manager Saba Afzal said the Scarecrow Trail is a must-do activity for anyone looking for a fun, whānau-friendly adventure.

“A scarecrow version of Girl with pearl earring from Scaler Swift, Spooky Spider to Iron Maiden, our community is incredibly creative. They’ve redefined what scarecrows are since the trail started eight years ago, so expect the unexpected.

The Stratford Scarecrow Trail is open from November 1 to 17, alongside the Taranaki Garden Festival, Fringe Garden Festival, Sustainable Backyards and Arts Trail. For the first time, Stratford’s King Edward Park is part of the Taranaki Garden Festival.