What's On Mid Canterbury

  • Geraldine High School is hosting a Back-to-School social on FRI 10 JULY. Former students, staff, board members, parents, and partners are invited. School alumnus Jordan Luck is going to play acoustically. There’ll be tables and leaners, a light supper, platters, tea, and coffee. People can bring their own alcohol. For people coming from outside Geraldine, tours of the school are on offer. Motorhomes and caravans are welcome to park on the playing field, with the gym’s showers and toilets available for use. At the school’s hall from 7pm. Tickets $40 adults; $20 seniors at events.humanitix.com/back-to-school-social or cash at Joosh or at the door. Please note this is an R18 event. School tours, from midday, can be booked by contacting Liz on 021 786 511. 
  • Matariki star gazing with Ashburton Astronomy Group is back SAT 11 JULY at Argyle Park from 5.45am until 7am. Free public viewing of the star cluster, weather permitting. All welcome. 
  • Hakatere Marae welcomes everyone to join them for a fun community Matariki event at the marae SAT 11 JULY. Also tied in with the All Black vs Italy rugby game. Event starts 5pm. Take your drinks or cash to purchase drinks and kai. 
  • Geraldine Lioness Lions Club Garden and Home Expo is on SAT 11 JULY at Geraldine Primary School Hall, from 10am to 3pm. 60 stalls with a great variety of goods. Entry $10 per adult, children free. All profits to Westpac Helicopter Trust and Geraldine Bus Trust. 
  • Ashburton Musical Club will host jazz band After Five of Christchurch at their club concert SUN 12 JULY, from 2pm at the Sinclair Centre, Park St. Public $25, members $10 and students free, Afternoon tea to follow. 
  • 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. 
  • 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.
  • 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.  
  • 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. 
  • 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.
  • 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
  • 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 August 17, Intro day 10 Aug. Email expressions of interest today to: craig.[email protected] 
  • 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] 

  

ONGOING

  • Matariki is being celebrated at Ashburton Museum with a new immersive exhibition titled ‘Matariki herenga waka: A mooring place for all canoes’. There will be waka hourua decorated by students of Ashburton Intermediate School which ‘sail’ through the space, representing Whakatere Ashburton as a community of many ‘canoes’: diverse people and identities who call Mid Canterbury home. The interactive exhibition of light and sound is free entry. 
  • Te Reo Ma ¯ori classes are being offered at He Waka Tapu from 9am to 11am on Tuesdays. Its an opportunity to learn basic day to day Ma ¯ori. For information or to register ph 03 745 4181. 
  • 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.

Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you