What's On Mid Canterbury

• Local community groups and organisations are invited to a public meeting to discuss the future of the Ashburton Sports Hall, and explore options for retaining the historic venue for community use. The meeting, organised by the Rotary Club of Ashburton, will be held at Community House on THURS 16 JULY at 7pm. Rotary says the Sports Hall is an important community asset, hosting a range of activities over many years, including the club's annual Bookarama fundraiser. With Ashburton District Council expected to call for tenders on the property, the meeting aims to bring together current users and other interested parties to discuss whether a viable community-led future for the hall is possible. Anyone with an interest in the future of the Ashburton Sports Hall is encouraged to attend. Enquiries to David Mead – 027 471 6661, or John Driscoll – 027 538 3816.  

• Holiday programme for children at St Marks Church, Rakaia on THURS 16 JULY from 9am to 3pm. Includes games, fun, music and crafts. Cost $5 per child or $10 per family. To register mid canterbury.org/holidayprogramme. 

• Dementia Canterbury is holding a free seminar on navigating the system through Older Person’s Health. At Community House on THURS 16 JULY from 10.30am to noon. The seminar is open to the public and would be helpful for anyone who has, or cares for someone with dementia. Speakers are Older Person’s Health registered nurse Greg Mills and clinical nurse specialist Sandy Mardell. Register via EventBrite or phone 0800 444 776. 

• The craft of quilting will be celebrated in Ashburton this weekend as around 100 quilters gather for Annie’s Mid-Winter Sewing Retreat at Hotel Ashburton FRI 17 – SUN 19 JULY. The three-day retreat will see participants working on quilting and sewing projects using both traditional hand-stitching techniques and modern sewing machines. Alongside dedicated sewing time, attendees will enjoy displays,demonstrationsand guest speakers.Organisedby Annie’s Country Quilt Store owner Rachel Maw.This year’s guest artist isGreitLombard ofWaitarereBeach.The quilting community will also be looking ahead to the National Quilt Symposium, which will be held at Burnside High School in Christchurch this October.

• POSTPONED - See details on the Ashburton Rowing Club FB page. Get ready to test your fitness and have some fun at the Ashburton Rowing Club's Erg (Indoor) Rowing Challenge! Set down for the Shed at Lake Hood on SAT 18 JULY at 10am, this event is perfect for both newcomers and experienced rowers. Whether you’re keen to compete, try something new, or challenge your mates and whānau, there’s something for everyone. Participants can enter as individuals or teams, with 1km and 2km race options available. Teams of four (male, female, or mixed) can decide how they split the 2km distance, adding a strategic twist to the competition. Categories include Male Under 18 & Senior and Female Under 19 & Senior. New to rowing? No worries — introductory training and a guided programme are available for early bird entrants, helping you learn correct technique and get the most out of the rowing machine. Rowing is a low-impact, full-body workout that builds strength and endurance — and this event is designed to be fun, social, and welcoming for all abilities. Plus, there are prizes up for grabs! Individual entry just $45, and teams of 4: $180. Registrations close FRI 17 JULY (discounts on offer for early birds who get in before FRI 3 JULY). Find more and register at https://www.sporty.co.nz/ashburtonrowing/events/erg-challenge, email [email protected], or check out Ashburton Rowing Club on Facebook.

• Mania-O-Roto Venturer Scouts is launching in Term 3, and they’d love to welcome new members! This is for young people aged 14–18 who are ready for bigger adventures, new challenges, and the chance to develop leadership, teamwork, and life skills while having fun and forming new friendships. From hiking, camping and kayaking to community projects, travel, and learning practical skills, Venturers is all about building confidence, making lifelong friendships, and creating your own adventure. No previous Scouting experience is needed. If you, your child, or someone you know is aged 14–18 and looking for adventure and to challenge themselves, come along to the Open Night TUES 21 JULY, 7:00–9:00 pm. At Mania-O-Roto Scout Park (south-end of Chalmers Ave). For more you can email: [email protected], or call Natalya (Zone Venture Leader) 0274488077.  

• Methven Lions and Methven Medical Centre present a free evening on lifestyle hacks and living well for longer. On FRI 24 JULY at the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall, starting 7pm. 

• Get ready for a night of fun, music, and plenty of sparkle at the Hampstead Netball Sparkle and Shine Disco for intermediate-aged children! On SAT 25 JULY at the Hampstead Club Rooms, Bridge Street. 6:30pm – 9:00pm. Dress up in your sparkliest outfit and hit the dance floor for a fantastic night. Great music, fun games, prizes for best dressed. There will also be snacks, drinks and glow in the dark accessories available to purchase. Tickets: $10, with proceeds helping support the Hampstead Netball Junior A & B Teams. Find more info and get your tickets from the Hampstead Netball Club FB page here: 
  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057644341829. You can also purchase WED 22 JULY from the Ashburton Intermediate Office between 8am- 8.40am.  

• Local youth are invited to a PJ Improv Night SAT 25 JULY at the Ashburton Library from 5pm–7pm. Pop on your favourite pyjamas and enjoy a range of fun improv games suitable for all abilities. Whether you're a seasoned performer, keen to try improv for the first time, or would rather sit back and enjoy the show as part of the crowd, there's a place for everyone. Bring along a pillow, blanket and your comfiest PJs. Snacks will be provided at halftime, and good vibes are guaranteed! Hosted by Hakatere Youth Advisory Group (YAG) & Ashburton Library.  

• A first for Ashburton! The Mid Canterbury Tri and Multi-Sport Club E‑Sport Arena Championship hits the EA Networks Centre SUN 26 JUL. Combining swimming, cycling, running, and cutting-edge technology in a high-energy, spectator-friendly arena environment. Athletes will take on a unique three-stage challenge: a 250 metre pool swim, a 10 kilometre Zwift ride, and a 2.5 kilometre treadmill run, all backed by live results and an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a social participant, or just keen to give something new a go, there are individual and team options, with youth (12+) and adult divisions. Best of all – all abilities are welcome. First race gets underway at 9:00am. For entries and full event info: 
  www.mctriandmultisport.co.nz. For enquiries, contact the Mid Canterbury Triathlon & Multisport Club via their website or social media pages. Swim. Ride. Run. Compete. Anyone. Everyone. Epic. 

• U3A Hakatere/Ashburton — for LifeLong Learning is hosting guest speaker, Olympic bobsleigh champion Aaron Orangi for “My Life in Sport”. On TUES 28 JULY. Doors open at 9.30am and lecture beings at 10.15am. Casual visitors pay $10 at the door. 

• Local businesses, organisations and community supporters are warmly invited to a Sponsors’ Evening to get the wheels spinning on Cycling Without Age Mid Canterbury. This inspiring initiative would provide free, volunteer-powered trishaw rides for older people and those with limited mobility, offering connection, companionship, freedom and a chance to enjoy the community around them. Originating in Denmark in 2012, the movement now operates in more than 3,500 communities worldwide. The goal for Mid Canterbury is to raise $56,000 to purchase two specially designed electric-assist trishaw bikes, allowing volunteer pilots to provide free rides that help reduce isolation and create meaningful community connections. The Sponsors’ Evening is WED 29 JULY, from 5.30pm to 6.30pm at the Ashburton Event Centre. Guests will hear about the project, learn how they can be involved, and discover sponsorship opportunities available to help get the initiative underway. A light supper will be provided and a cash bar will be available. Register for your free ticket online, email [email protected], or contact Kevin on 03 308 1395. Those unable to attend but interested in supporting the fundraising campaign are also encouraged to get in touch. 

• Hakatere Multi Cultural Council’s Multicultural Talent Show Night is on FRI 31 JULY at Tinwald Memorial Hall. Doors open 6pm, show starts 6.30pm. Contact Hakatere Multi Cultural Council ph 027 220 8791 

• Think you’ve got what it takes to be the quiz champions of Methven? Round up your friends, family, workmates or club members and head along to the Methven Golf Club Quiz Night on FRI 31 JULY for a great night of laughs, friendly competition and fantastic prizes. Teams of four will battle it out across a range of quiz categories, with cash prizes up for grabs. There’ll also be a great raffle table and a cash wheel during the breaks to keep the excitement going throughout the evening. At Methven Golf Club 7.00pm (doors open 6.00pm). $80 per team ($20 per person) – supper included. Pay on the night. Please note this one is for the adults 18+. Register your team now by email [email protected], or phone 027 502 8439.  

• Lauriston School Support annual Methven Craft Market is on at Mt Hutt Memorial Hall SAT 1 AUG, from 10am to 4pm. 

• Farming families are giving rural families a chance to get off farm for some fun and connecting with others from the rural community. They are providing a free ice-skating session on SAT 1 AUG at the Staveley Ice Skating Ring from 9am. A thank you to all those families who work hard to keep rural communities thriving. Register for tickets via Humanitix or the Farming Families Facebook Page.  

• Looking for some creative inspiration this winter? The Ashburton Society of Arts' annual exhibition is now on display at Rokowhiriia, Ashburton's art gallery and museum. The exhibition showcases work from society members, who will be on site throughout the exhibition period, providing a great opportunity to meet local artists, learn more about the organisation, and explore a diverse range of artwork. Opening Hours: 10am–4pm, seven days a week. Be quick, it’s only on until SUN 2 AUG. For further information, contact Rokowhiriia Art Gallery and Museum or the Ashburton Society of Arts.

• Mount Hutt College presents ‘So there was this plane …’ at the College from WED 5 - FRI 7 AUG, nightly 7pm. Tickets from the school cost $10. 

• Spray experts Tom Wolf and Jason Deveau are bringing their popular Sprayers 101 workshops to Ashburton, helping arable growers improve spray accuracy, reduce drift and get more from every application. Organised by FAR, the practical sessions will cover nozzle selection, spray timing, drift management and emerging drone technology. On WED 5 AUG. Register for the workshop on the FAR website at far.org.nz/events

• Get ready for an electrifying night of music asTheBoyzAre BackInTownbrings the timeless hits of Gavin Templeton's celebratedJust theBoyzproduction to life. On stage FRI 7 to SUN 9 AUG, this high-energy concert promises outstanding musicianship, unforgettable songs, and a fantastic night out for music lovers of all ages. Best of all,all profits will go towards the Future Fundraising Campaign, helping support the Ashburton Event Centre. Adults $35,Seniors/Students $29. Tickets available from the Ashburton Event Centre.

• Need funding for your club, charity or community group? The Mid Canterbury Funders Forum Funding Clinic is being held at 5.30pm WED 12 AUG in the Ashburton College Auditorium. This free event is designed for Mid Canterbury charitable organisations, clubs and not-for-profit groups looking for funding opportunities. Local funders will explain which organisations they fund, what projects and costs are eligible, how much funding may be available, and tips for writing a successful funding application. Each funder will present a short overview, followed by the opportunity to speak with funders one-on-one and ask questions. A representative from all local not-for-profit groups is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact the Ashburton Community Foundation (AACF), which currently chairs the Mid Canterbury Funders Forum. 

• Kai for Kids is holding a Flourish and Nourish evening celebrating women's health, wellbeing and financial empowerment. Guest speakers include Zoe Wallis (a CFA investment strategist with Forsyth Barr), Loretta Hogg (strength and conditioning coach) and Cara Calvin (identity transformation coach). The evening is a fundraiser for Kai for Kids who provide meals and morning teas to children in local schools and kindergartens. On THURS 13 AUG, 7pm at the Ashburton Event Centre. Tickets $62.25 and available via Humantix.  

• Ashburton Volunteer Fire Brigade is launching a new 10-week cadet course for students in Years 9 to 13. It’s a hands-on programme to develop real life skills, teamwork and leadership, and learn firefighting skills alongside experienced local firefighters. It starts MON 17 AUG. An introduction evening is being held MON 10 AUG. Email expressions of interest today to: craig.[email protected] 

• Ashburton Christian School present Narnia the Musical at the Ashburton Event Centre WED 19 and THURS 20 AUG, 12.30pm and 6.30pm. Tickets $20 from the Event Centre.  

• Southern Netball are celebrating their 25th anniversary and organisers are looking for photos and memorabilia associated with the club. The event will be acknowledged with an afternoon tea, cake cutting and prizegiving at the Hinds Community Centre on SUN 23 AUG. Anyone with information can contact Jo via email [email protected] 

• NZTA is asking for community feedback on a proposed variable speed limit outside Hakatere Marae on State Highway 1, south of Ashburton. The proposal would see electronic signs temporarily reduce the speed limit from 100km/h to 60km/h for around 300 metres on either side of the marae entrance when vehicles are entering or leaving the highway. The signs would only activate when needed, aiming to improve safety while minimising delays for motorists. NZTA says community feedback, along with safety assessments, travel time impacts and costs, will help inform the final decision. Find out more and have your say before 5pm, TUES 25 AUG at: nzta.govt.nz/targeted-speed-limit-reviews-central-and-lower-south-island. 

• Wakanui School is celebrating a remarkable milestone – 150 years of growing the future. Former pupils, staff, families and members of the community are invited to join the celebrations from THURS 17 – SAT 19 SEPT. The festivities begin with a 150 Years Showcase at the Ashburton Event Centre on Thursday, followed by an open afternoon at the school on Friday featuring bell ringing, tree planting, cake and afternoon tea. Saturday's programme includes friendly hockey games, a bus tour of the Wakanui district, and a special 150th Celebration Dinner at the Ashburton Hotel. To register your interest, visit the Wakanui School 150 Years Facebook page, email [email protected], or call 03 302 3899. 

• Meanwhile Fairton School is planning its 125th anniversary with events also set for September 18. Registrations via [email protected] 

• Run and Walk Ashburton is inviting past and present members, along with the wider community, to join in celebrating 75 years of the club on SAT 3 OCT. Founded in 1951 as the Ashburton Harrier Club, the organisation has grown and evolved alongside the sport itself, from cross-country harrier racing and road relays to today's popular trail running, walking and endurance events. Over seven and a half decades, generations of Mid Canterbury residents have laced up their shoes through the club, creating friendships, memories and a lasting legacy of fitness and community spirit. The celebrations will begin with a group walk and run at Lake Hood at 1.30pm, before moving to the Hotel Ashburton from 5pm for an evening social gathering and dinner. The event will provide an opportunity for former and current members to reconnect, share stories and reflect on the club's rich history. Special guest speaker wll be John McBrearty. For more information or to register your interest, contact Noel Batty: 027 608 4003.  

ONGOING

• The ‘Buy-a-brick’ campaign with Mid Canterbury Cricket Association is aiming to raise $25,000 to complete its indoor net facility upgrade. It is the final push needed for the facility. Anyone interested in supporting the campaign can contact Jane Fowles at [email protected] or by phone on 027 942 1500. 

• A boost for young people looking to get behind the wheel. 25 licence scholarships are now available thanks to $6500 in funding from Advance Ashburton Community Foundation to Y Drive, the driving school operated by The Y Central South Island. It will cover 15 learner licence scholarships and 10 restricted licence scholarships for deserving local youth. A driver’s licence can be life-changing for young people, particularly in rural communities where transport options are limited. Scholarship recipients will receive professional driving instruction and mentored practice sessions to help them gain the skills and confidence needed to sit their tests. Applications are open now. For more information on eligibility and the application process, contact Sharyn Kake at [email protected] or call 027 368 7018. 

• Did you know that Mid Canterbury Netball run walking netball on a Tuesday? It's low impact exercise and a lot of fun! It's netball with a few rule alterations - no running or jumping allowed, but you do get a bit more time with the ball and you won't get pulled up if you take an extra step... Whether you're a retired player wanting to get back in to it, or if you've never played netball before but want to have a go - this is for you!! All ages and all abilities - you're never too old to start. Why not come along and give it a crack this week? There's 2 time options - 9.30am or 5.30pm - and the first game is free! Netball MC would love to see you. 

• CanBead is marking its 15 year anniversary by launching a fundraising campaign on Givealittle to raise $20,000. It’s to keep their workshops running and extend their reach to more kiwis who need them. The charity, founded by Sarah Clifford of Ashburton, offers free creative therapy workshops to people facing illness, trauma, and loss. It started as a quiet act of personal healing as she went through melanoma treatment; she make one necklace every day. Those necklaces were auctioned and the proceeds used to launch CanBead. It is now a nationwide movement of creativity, compassion, and community. Last year, more than 1400 took up the option. CanBead — officially the CanInspire Charitable Trust — works with other registered charities to reach people through organisations they already trust. To donate givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-us-celebrate-15-years-of-canbead 

• Ashburton Writers’ Group members have put together their second anthology of interesting tales. It’s called Group Therapy: The Sequel. Proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to Mid Canterbury Riding for the Disabled. The anthology showcased the ‘‘wonderful and wide-ranging pieces’’ of members, as well as short stories from the top three writers in each category of the annual Ashburton short story competition. Writers’ group members were encouraged to submit their best story or two from topics given at meetings during the year for inclusion in the book. Nine members took up the challenge and submitted 31 stories, each up to 500 words. Youngest member Meghan Nish, 14, also illustrated the front cover. The group did their first anthology about five years ago, and following its success decided to repeat the process. Group Therapy: The Sequel costs $20 per book and can be purchased via the Ashburton Writer’s Group Facebook page or via Nigel Dean on 027 232 8174. 

• Hotel Ashburton has a new card group. You're welcome to come along every TUES for 500 and Euchre, starting 1:30pm. Entry $3. Cards and Board Games on FRI starting 1:30pm, gold coin donation. You're welcome to join a lunch held beforehand. Then FRI evenings join in fun Housie. Doors open 6:30pm, first call 7:15pm. Cards from $2. 

• 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. 
• Kai's Up offers a free meal for anyone - no judgement, no criteria. Every THURS (yes, even in the rain), 6pm in The Catholic Church carpark, corner of Havelock and Park Street. Feel free to bring your own containers. Meal, hot/cold drink, sweet treat provided. Stick around and eat on site, or bring your own container and take home to eat. Families welcome. Thank you to all the volunteers behind the scenes that make this happen. Follow Kai’s Up on FB.

• 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 every WED from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

• Need a van? Does your sports club, dance club, social club or school go on trips or outings as a group, and you would like to travel together? Community House has a 12 seater van available for hire. For more details or to book please visit the website https://www.communityhousemc.co.nz. You can also give them a call 03 308 1237, or email [email protected]. 

• Hampstead Sports Club is back hosting Housie! Come along for a night of fun, laughs, and the chance to win some great prizes. On every TUES, doors open at 6:30pm, with Housie starting 7pm. At Hampstead Sports Club off Bridge Street. New faces are always welcome — it’s a great way to catch up with friends and start the year with a bit of excitement. Don’t miss out — fun, prizes, and laughter guaranteed! Find more on the Hampstead Sports Club NZ Facebook page.

• Rakaia Sunday Market and "Art & All" museum and antiques is on every first and third SUN of the month (weather permitting). On the corner of Railway Tce West & Rolleston Street - Near the dog park. 10am-3pm. Plenty of parking. Please bring  cash, although there is some EFTPOS available. Food, entertainment, arts &crafts, farm fresh meat, baking, plants & compost and fishing gear all on offer. If you wish to sell - single stall $20, double $40. Food vendors also welcome. To find out more and book your spot call 0224192781.

• Citizens Advice Bureau Mid Canterbury are celebrating having 500 entries in their community directory. It’s a free resource for people who are looking for information and groups within the district from starting a new sport or hobby, hire a hall for an event or need support from a social service. Access via ashburton.cab.org.nz

• A flood warning text-alert service is available in Ashburton, giving residents early notice when rivers start to rise and there is a risk of flooding. Canterbury Regional Councilsaysthe system – available on 12 river floodplains across the region – provided a crucial extra layer of early warning and can make a life-changing difference for people living or working near rivers.These text alerts give people precious time to prepare – time to move stock, shift equipment, protect property, and keep their families safe.The free opt-in service sends automated text messages when river flows reach thresholds that may result in flooding. Residents can sign up by texting the relevant river name to 3730. When the selected river reaches a critical flow threshold, subscribers receive an early-warning text. To opt out, text cancel to 3730.