What's On Mid Canterbury

  • Downsizing? Decluttering? Consider donating good quality pre-loved furniture, clothing, jewellery, homewares and books to the St John Op Shop. They also welcome the likes of manchester, mirrors and artwork. Help them help you by raising money for Ambulances & Medical Support Staff. You can drop donations to the shop 129 Tancred St (opposite Westpac Bank), or they can collect/deliver. Call to book 307 4221. 

 

  • Downsizing or Moving? Whether downsizing, moving into care or clearing out a loved one's home, the task can be daunting. Mid Canterbury Hospice can pick up and collect all unwanted items such as furniture, bedding, clothing & shoes, homeware & small appliances. All donated goods are sold with proceeds used to provide support and services to locals with a life-limiting illness. Keeping it local, the Hospice Shop on Tancred Street. Contact Janis or Nicole 3078387. 

  

  • Ashburton Vintage Car Club has their Museum and Parts Shed open every SAT 10am-12pm. You can find them at 86 Maronan Road, Tinwald. Approx 30 veteran vintage and classic cars and motorcycles from 1906 to 1970s. Plus much more motoring memorabilia on display. Parts available from the parts shed. Museum open at other times on request. Phone Les Bennett 308 4705 or 027 612 1160. 

 

  • Litter Free Ashburton holds its group litter collection on the second THURS of each month, meeting 1:30pm on the corner of SH1 and Havelock Street near the former library. It is looking for more members. If you can help, please inquire via the Litter Free Ashburton FB page or simply turn up at the meeting. Resources supplied.  
  • Join the global movement that is Parkrun! Every SAT starting 8am, take a jog from Walnut Ave through our stunning Domain. If running or walking isn't your thing, you could consider volunteering. They need people in a variety of roles including: photographers, first timer welcome, time keepers, pre event course check, course marshals, tail walkers, report writers, barcode scanners, finisher tokens, warm up leaders, course setup and close down. If you are interested or would like to find out more, search for "Ashburton Domain" on Park Run website or email [email protected]. Run, walk, volunteer!!
  • Need something signed by a Justice of the Peace? JPs are available every TUES and FRI at their new spot in the Ashburton Library. Pop in between 12pm-2pm, no appointment needed. 

  • Mid Canterbury Citizens Advice Bureau is now offering drop-in sessions at the Ashburton Library on Wednesdays from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

  • Project Uplift encourages local women to donate bras which are given to women in need across the Pacific. In some cases they are also distributed to women and girls across NZ through schools, health boards and community groups. Having a bra provides comfort, dignitary and support. The bra she receives from Project Uplift is often the only bra that woman owns. Collecting both new and second hand nursing bras, crop tops and sports bras. Drop your donations to Sparrows on East Street. Find more at www.projectuplift.org.nz. 

  • Would you like to knit, weave or crochet for a veteran? In acknowledgment of 2025 being 80 years since the end of World War 2, 75 years since beginning of Korean War, 65 years since end of Malay Emergency and 50 years since end of Vietnam War, you are invited to knit, weave or crochet a scarf for a veteran. To let them know they haven’t been forgotten, they are "Wrapped in Remembrance" and their service is appreciated. Scarves can be any ply, any pattern and any colours. The project runs until November 11, 2025. Please drop completed scarves off to: Ashburton RSA, 12 Cox Street, Ashburton, Rakaia Mobil - 50 Bridge Street, Rakaia, Methven I site - 160 Main Street, Methven, Cafe Mayfield - 1992 Arundel Rakaia Gorge Road, Hinds School - Reed Street, Hinds, and Mt Somers Springburn School - Ashburton Gorge Road. Any questions contact Project Manager Dellwyn - [email protected]

  • On the back of the exciting new development at the Ashburton A&P Showgrounds, they are now up to stage 2 - a fence built around the new equestrian development. This permanent surround will match the western end of the oval. Smart, safe and long-lasting. They have 212 sections to fully fence. Each section is for sale at $140 for families, individuals or businesses to purchase. This is a wonderful way to give back for anyone who has enjoyed the A&P Showgrounds facilities in the past, and help it become a permanent part of the new Equestrian Arena for future events. Find more on the Ashburton A&P Association FB page, or make a donation direct to their bank account 06-0837-0154538-00 with the reference your name, and the code "fencing". 
  • Need help with your phone,tablet, laptop or other digital devices? Ashburton District Council has friendly digi coaches back at the Ashburton Library. Whether it's setting up an app,troubleshooting a tech issue, or learning something new, come in and sit down with a digi coach. They are available Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, from 1-3pm. No booking needed, just drop in.

 

  • Are you involved in an arts show or project in the Ashburton District? You may qualify for financial help through the Creative Communities Scheme. Council administers the scheme on behalf of Creative New Zealand and applications are now open. This round there is a pool of about $18,000 to distribute. Some previous recipients include Mt Hutt College for their school production Murder She Floats, Ashburton Festival of Pipe Band Music, the Hakatere Ceramics and Pottery group, the fairy walk at the Methven and Foothills Walking Festival and the Mid Canterbury Children’s Trust. Funds granted for arts projects must be used on things like production costs, materials, venue or equipment hire and promotion. There’s no limit to how much you can apply for, but most grants are under $2000. You can find out how to apply and see the conditions on Council’s website. 
  • ‘Kura pounamu: our treasured stone’ is an exhibit at Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum on until October 7. Presented by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa and Te Runanga Of Ngai Tahu, it features more than 200 taonga pounamu. The Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum is currently hosting a special exhibition of greenstone treasure. Developed by Te Papa and Ngai Tahu, the touring exhibition features more than 200 taonga pounamu and tells the story of this most precious of stones, its significance for Māori, and its enduring value from ancient times until today.

 

  • Farming Families, Rural Support Trust and FMG a hosting a series of rural brunches. Bring your farm team for a free coffee and burger at one of the stops: Lowcliffe-Coldstream Hall on TUES 2 SEPT, Dorie Hall FRI 5 SEPT, in front of PGG Mayfield TUES 9 SEPT, Alford Forest Hall THURS 11 SEPT, and at the intersection of Thompsons Track and SH77 Methven Highway FRI 12 SEPT. All sessions 11am-1pm. They look forward to seeing you! 
  • He Waka Tapu is proud to present the HAKATERE COMMUNITY PĀNUI. Starting TUES 2 SEPT they are hosting free Te Reo Māori classes. These classes will run fortnightly and are designed to give whānau an introductory taste of te reo in a relaxed, welcoming space. At 111 Tancred Street (front of the YMCA arcade) from 9:30am – 11:30am. Find more on the He Waka Tapu FB page.
  • Property Brokers Ashburton is helping support locals facing life-limiting illness and
    bereavement. Join as they crank up the BBQ this THURS 4 SEPT from 11am - 2pm and raise funds for Hospice Mid Canterbury! On the menu: Sausages in bread and juicy burgers. Drive through at the office 217 West Street. Can't make it? No stress, they are doing deliveries! Arrange yours by email [email protected] or call the office on 307 9176 by end of play TUES 2 SEPT. 
  • Hospice Mid Canterbury is inviting everyone to get out their brightest shirt to wear on FRI 5 SEPT. Make a donation to raise funds for this wonderful Mid Canterbury charity which supports locals facing life limiting illness and bereavement. There is a delicious morning tea shout for the winners of: best group photo and most money raised. For more information or to sign up go to facebook.com/ hospicemidcanterbury.
  • Variety Theatre Ashburton is hosting a Jingo (musical bingo) fundraiser on FRI 5 SEPT at the VTA Rooms on Wills Street (opposite the Ashburton Event Centre). Doors open 7pm, first round starts 7:30pm. Great prizes, raffle and light supper on offer. $20 per person, please RSVP to [email protected]. 
  • Ashburton District Council, Age Concern and NZTA are teaming up to run another refresher course for older drivers. The Staying Safe course will be on FRI 5 SEPT, at the Senior Centre on Cameron Street, from 10am-2pm. Phone 308-6817 to register, or email [email protected]. This is a free classroom course to refamiliarize yourself with traffic rules and safe driving practices. 
  • Enjoy an evening of storytelling about the coldest place on Earth. NZ Antarctic Society has curated a selection of captivating short films from the heart of Antarctica. On show at Ashburton Event Centre FRI 5 SEPT. The evening also includes guest speaker Rob Teasdale, of Methven, who was involved in a great traverse from Scott Base to Ross Ice Shelf. A spokesperson said the evening was about bringing Antarctica to the people, through science, art, humour, and personal connection. The Antarctic Film Festival 2025, with footage curated by award winning filmmaker Anthony Powell, will screen at the event centre’s Bradford Room on September 5 from 6.30pm. Doors open at 6pm. Cost $20. 
  • Ashburton Toy Library and House of Bricks is back with the Ashburton Brick Show on SAT 6 SEPT. Featuring local Ashburton exhibitors as well as other exhibitors from throughout Canterbury. At the Tinwald Hall from 10am ­til 4pm. 

  • Smiles4Miles is back to take those with special needs or facing day-to-day challenges for rides in big trucks, hot rods, even fire engines. At the Ryal Bush Yard on Maronan Road, 10am-1pm. More than 20 vehicles are expected. Also special thanks to Hato Hone St John and NZ Police who will be parked up at the event, and Rapid Relief offering their delicious barbecue for free. On wet or fine. The 5th event organised by Ryal Bush. If you can help please contact Dean Rattray on 0274962702.

  • The Mid Canterbury Hammers are back at home this SAT 6 SEPT, hoping to make it 4 wins in a row v East Coast. Catch the action at the Ashburton Showgrounds from 2pm, entry is free!
  • The Plains Railway & Historical Museum is open on Fathers Day SUN 7 SEPT. From 11am - 4pm.  Dads ride FREE on the passenger service with a fare-paying child! Hauled by K88, it operates on the half hour from 11am - 3.30pm. You could also treat Dad to a Cab Ride so he can watch the crew at work, for $25 (enclosed shoes must be worn). Also view Vintage Machinery Displays, Museum Village, working Stationary Engines, free kids activities and much more!  Coffee, Snacks and Pizza available. Find them at 20 Maronan Road, Tinwald. 
  • The Lifelong Learning Festival is on TUES 9 SEPT at Ashburton Library. Running 4-7pm. This festival includes two main parts: An event programme of 10 speakers, demonstrations and performances, including departing Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown talking on 21yrs of public service, and Harrison Doak on performing at the World Pipe Band Champs in Scotland. Also over 30 hands on, interactive experiences from providers of learning of all sorts... community education, tertiary providers, apprenticeships, clubs and groups. With watercolour painting, virtual reality training, sign language classes and more, there's lot of hobby and up-skilling options for adults of all ages! Also enjoy free sausage sizzle and chippies thanks to Ashburton Lions Club. Free activities and competitions to keep the kids busy, including scavenger hunt and prizes. This event is taking place during Adult Learners' Week, organised by Keep Learning Mid Canterbury and the Ashburton Library. Find more here: https://events.humanitix.com/lifelong-learning-festival. 
  • “That Bloody Woman” is Methven Theatre Company’s 2025 production. It’s retelling a historic moment, the show itself is a contemporary rework full of vigour, punk rock attitude and hilarity (mature themes and coarse language). On for three nights from THURS 11 to SAT 13 SEPT at the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall. Tickets from the Ashburton Event Centre box office or online, and at Cafe45 in Methven. 
  • Come and meet the team working on the second Ashburton River Bridge! NZTA and Ashburton District Council is hosting an information session on THURS 11 SEPT. Pop into Te Whare Whakatere (Ashburton Library and Civic Centre) anytime between 3:30pm - 6:30pm to see plans and ask any questions. 

 

  • The annual Peak to Pub multi­sport race returns SAT 13 SEPT. From the Summit of Mt Hutt at 2086m starting from 9am, to the comfort of the Blue Pub in Methven at 300m. Then a week after the Peak to Pub the mountain comes to Methven township with the Methven Chill Fest. It takes place on SAT 20 SEPT from 4pm to 9pm. Mt Hutt and Mt Hutt Parks has a street style rail/ jump session to rival all. Truck loads of snow will be transported from the mountain to Methven Bike Methven jump park (behind the medical centre) where there will be an exhibition of jumps, rails and viewing pleasure for all ages. There'll be live music, food trucks, bar, and more. Cost $5. Gate opens from 4pm. 
  • The Hakatere Noodle Festival is back SAT 13 SEPT. A celebration of our multicultural community featuring noodle dishes from around the world. 20 vendors will be onsite, including commercial food truck operators and community groups serving up the flavours of Korean, Thai, Singaporean, Filipino, Japanese, Cantonese, Mexican, Indian, Argentinian and more. There’ll be dessert options too! As part of Welcoming Week, seven new residents will share how they came to live in the Ashburton District, and their stories and photographs will be on display in Baring Square East in the week before the festival. On the festival night there'll also be an interactive whanau (family) zone that will have range of games, including games from different cultures to try out. Catch the event 3pm-8pm in Baring Square East. Jump on the Ashburton District Council website for further updates. 
  • Pull on your boots, dust off your hat, and get ready for a toe-tappin’ good time! The Ashburton A & P Association has teamed up with Smoke Restaurant to put on a country-themed night that promises delicious hot food, live music, prizes and a lively auction - all under one roof. This good old-fashioned celebration will feature live music by The Southern Man, along with fun prizes for the best dressed guys ‘n gals, and complimentary nibbles. The evening’s auction will offer an exciting range of items and experiences. Proceeds to the A & P Association towards the upkeep of the Showgrounds, and some new and exciting additions that will be added to the annual A & P Show, happening October 31 and November 1st, this year. The Great Ashburton Shin Digg will kick off 7pm SAT 13 SEPT. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased from Eventfinda, or go to www.ashburtonshow.co.nz or the Ashburton Show Facebook page.  
  • 'The Orange Box' is the creation of Naranjarte, an extraordinary Spanish puppet theatre and circus company. With the support of Arts on Tour NZ, the show is coming to Ashburton Event Centre on SUN 14 SEPT. All tickets $12.50.  Renowned for its unique fusion of puppetry and juggling, Naranjarte’s performances aren’t just shows; they are immersive journeys challenging perceptions and transporting audiences to realms of wonder and delight. Beyond entertainment, the show carries a deeper message, inviting us to step outside the box, where true magic unfolds. Join this one-of-a-kind adventure that transcends the ordinary and opens the door to the extraordinary. Book through the Ashburton Event Centre website, or the venue direct.  
  • Grey Power is hosting a “Meet the Council Candidates” forum on MON 15 SEPT, 2pm at the Seniors Centre on Cameron Street. If you’d like to know more, please contact Cath Carr – 308 2092 or [email protected]
  • The Mid Canterbury Career Fest returns THURS 9 OCT. Hosted by the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs, this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better, with a strong focus on practical, hands-on career pathways for those not heading into tertiary study. At the A&P Showgrounds off Brucefield Ave, 3:30pm til 7pm. They’ve made some changes based on past feedback, including moving the event away from the weekend to make it more accessible. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business to the local community, inspire future talent with interactive, hands-on activities, share insights into skills, training, and career pathways in your industry, and connect with potential future employees. Plus, there’ll be a free community barbecue and coffee cart to keep everyone refreshed! MTFJ nationally celebrated 25 years of service this year, and locally we’ve helped 74 people into employment in the last financial year. Local businesses/industry providers are asked to register their interest by TUES 16 SEPT.  
  • ANZ Ashburton is once again hosting their annual Daffodil Day Quiz Night and Auction at the Hotel Ashburton on THURS 18 SEPT, from 6.30pm. Teams of up to five, $75 entry fee to compete. It’s a fun-filled quiz evening to raise funds for the Mid Canterbury Cancer Society. Team entries via email to [email protected] or pop by branch. 

  • Westpac and the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust are bringing Sir John Kirwan to Hotel Ashburton on TUES 23 SEPT for a free talk on mental health and resilience. JK is an All Black legend, but it’s his contributions outside of rugby that have made him one of our most treasured New Zealanders. At this free event "Mind Matters", hear JK speak openly about his own struggles with mental illness while being at the top of his game. He offers insight into the steps he took to manage and learn about his own mental health and the things he does in his daily life to take care of himself not only for him but his family too. Doors open 11:00am for an 11:30am start. Even though it's free you do need to book here: https://events.humanitix.com/mind-matters-a-conversation-with-sir-john-kirwan  

  • The Mid Canterbury Career Fest returns THURS 9 OCT. Hosted by the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs, this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better, with a strong focus on practical, hands-on career pathways for those not heading into tertiary study. At the A&P Showgrounds off Brucefield Ave, 3:30pm til 7pm. They’ve made some changes based on past feedback, including moving the event away from the weekend to make it more accessible. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business to the local community, inspire future talent with interactive, hands-on activities, share insights into skills, training, and career pathways in your industry, and connect with potential future employees. Plus, there’ll be a free community barbecue and coffee cart to keep everyone refreshed! MTFJ nationally celebrated 25 years of service this year, and locally we’ve helped 74 people into employment in the last financial year. Local businesses are asked to register their interest by THURS 16 SEPT.
  • Get Ready to Shine at "Stars in Your Eyes"! Join Ashburton County Lions for a dazzling night of community talent on FRI 17 OCT, again at the Ashburton Event Centre, kicking off at 7:30pm. A fundraiser for deserving local causes. Whether you sing, act, or dance — this is your moment to take the stage! Auditions are now open. All ages welcome, and it's free to enter. Auditions close FRI 19 SEPT. Pick up your entry form at the Event Centre, or get in touch with someone from the Lions Club of Ashburton County. 
  • KPMG and The Y Central South Island are back with the Charity Golf Tournament at Tinwald Golf Club on SUN 19 OCT. Check in 11:30am for a 12-noon tee off. $200 per team of 4. Includes build-your-own gourmet burger meal, and on course sausage sizzle and refreshments. Raffles and great prizes on offer too. 100% of the proceeds support the Y's youth development programmes across Mid Canterbury. Find more and register via the Tinwald Golf or Y Facebook pages. 
  • The National Guinea Pig Show is on SAT 20 SEPT at Mt Hutt Memorial Hall, 9:30am til 2:30pm. Come and watch the finest guinea pigs from across New Zealand compete for the title of Best in Show! Entry just gold coin donation. View rare and amazing breeds, learn about the NZ Cavy Fancy, check out the breed display and enjoy something yummy from the cafe. 
  • The Ashburton Art Gallery and the Zonta Club of Ashburton are calling for entries to the annual Zonta Ashburton Women’s Art Awards. A major cash prize and solo exhibition will be awarded to the premier winner, and all selected finalists get to have their work shown in the awards exhibition. The competition is open to all emerging and mid-career visual artists in Canterbury. The award seeks to raise the status of women artists and recognise their excellence in fine parts.  A Young Generation Award will also run for women artists between 16 and 20. The 2026 event will be mark the awards’ 10th anniversary. Entries close on TUES 7 OCT, with the finalists announced in January. The winners will be revealed in March, at the awards exhibition opening. 
  • Mid Canterbury businesses, educators and community organisations are being invited to showcase their trade at an interactive careers event on THURS 9 OCT. Career Fest 2025 is aimed at showing the many different industries and jobs that are available. Interested in being an exhibitor? Email the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs co-ordinator [email protected].
  • The South Canterbury Aero Club is hosting "Timaru Run the Runway", giving runners and walkers of all abilities the opportunity to complete a loop of the Richard Pearse airport’s 1.28km main runway. The fundraiser will be held on SAT 18 OCT and will feature a static aircraft display, barbecue and raffle. Funds raised helping buy a new training aircraft. Thought to be a first for the airport. It's a 3.3km loop. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be bought from the South Canterbury Aero Club website. The barbecue and display will begin at 5pm while the walk/run will start at 6.30pm. 

  • Ashburton A&P annual two-day show is set for October 31–November 1, themed “Cultivating Community”, with preparations already underway for the show’s 150th anniversary in 2027. A celebration of evolving with the times while honouring the association’s long history. The first show took place in 1877. ‘At that time, NZ’s population was around 400,000, and farmers were transitioning from bullock to horse drawn ploughs. They are calling for people to share stories, artefacts, and ideas for the 150th celebration. Contact: [email protected]

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