More than 4 thousand sheep and shearers from all over the world are in New Zealand for the World Sheep Shearing Championships.

Categories include blade shearing and wool handling. Shearers are judged on speed, wool quality, and the look of the sheep once it is shaved. Organizers say it is not just about competition, it is also a lot of fun.

"We got a good chance of blowing the roof off, so it's down to us as commentators to get the crowd going but I don't think that's going to be difficult at all to be honest," says commentator Huw Condron.

Competitors work through a series of rounds with hopes of making the finals on Saturday night where large crowds are expected.