What's On Mid Canterbury

• U3A Hakatere/Ashburton for Life Long Learning is presenting a three-part mini-series on positivity and wellbeing in later life at the Ashburton Event Centre. The series features three guest speakers covering a range of topics related to healthy ageing and wellbeing. Continuing TUES 1 SEPT, Sarah Clifford will discuss the positives of ageing, highlighting local services, community groups, and practical resources that help people stay active, connected, and independent. The final presentation, on TUES 8 SEPT, features Jill Hawkey, who will speak about the work of the Christchurch Methodist Mission and the challenges surrounding housing for older people. The U3A Hakatere/Ashburton for Life Long Learning mini-series will be held at the Ashburton Event Centre, Wills Street. Doors open at 9.30am, with presentations beginning at 10.15am. Casual visitors are welcome, with admission $10 at the door. 

• Farming Families are encouraging farmers to take a break from the farm and join them for a free brunch shout at four spots around the district this month. Brunches, from 11am to 1pm, include barista coffee, bbq lunch, and a chance to catch up with neighbours, friends and the wider rural community. Events are at Clucas's Corner, Lismore Mayfield Rd, TUES 1 SEPT, and Lauriston Hall on THURS 3 SEPT.

• MS & Parkinson's Canterbury is looking for volunteers to support its Annual Street Appeal on FRI 4 and SAT 5 SEPT. Just two hours of your time can make a real difference for people living with Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's throughout Canterbury. Volunteers are needed as Street Collectors and Site Coordinators at collection points across the region. Workplaces, sports clubs, schools, whānau and community groups are also encouraged to get involved. Available shifts 9.00am to 11.00am, 11.00am to 1.00pm, 1.00pm to 3.00pm, 3.00pm to 5.00pm. Every volunteer contribution helps raise vital funds and support services for local people and their families. To register your interest or find out more, contact Lina Stroud [email protected] 

• Ashburton artist Heather Sarin is set to showcase her passion for colour, nature and conservation in a major new exhibition at the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum. Featuring 37 original works, Our Connection to the Natural World is Heather’s first abstract exhibition, bringing together pieces that are printed, painted and stitched. Inspired by the beauty of nature and the importance of caring for the planet, the exhibition explores movement, light, colour and space through vibrant abstract artworks, many incorporating animal themes. A respected local artist and educator, Sarin has spent more than two years preparing the collection. Her work has been exhibited internationally and she is a passionate supporter of wildlife conservation, particularly elephant conservation. All artworks have been created on paper or recycled cloth, reflecting her commitment to sustainability. Visitors will also be able to purchase art prints from the gallery shop, along with Heather's children's book Fidgety Fox, which she both wrote and illustrated. A special art workshop will also be offered at the conclusion of the exhibition. At Rokowhiria - Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum. Opening Night SAT 5 SEPT. Exhibition then runs until November 29. Please note: The Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum building will be closed from October 19 to November 15 while a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is installed.

• Y Central South Island is hosting its biennial Youth Survey, giving young people aged 12 to 24 the chance to have their voices heard. As the organisation's largest advocacy initiative, the survey explores a wide range of topics, from local opportunities and community connection to mental health and overall wellbeing. This year's survey, themed "Your Voice Matters," and provides an important snapshot of what life is really like for young people across Mid Canterbury. The insights gathered do not simply sit on a shelf. Findings are shared with local councils, health providers, schools, social service agencies and community leaders, helping to shape programmes, funding decisions and policies that respond to the real needs of young people. 12 to 24-year-olds are encouraged to take part. The online survey takes around 25 minutes to complete and is completely confidential and anonymous. As an added incentive, participants who complete the full survey will go in the draw to win one of 15 $100 Prezzy Cards. By encouraging young people to share their experiences, you're helping Y Central South Island advocate for a stronger, more responsive future for young people across the region. The survey is available online until SAT 5 SEPT at https://ymcasc.org.nz/event/youth-survey-2026/ or via the Y Central South Island NZ Facebook page. 

• Cycling Without Age Mid Canterbury is hosting a Quiz Night FRI 11 SEPT at the Tinwald Cycling Clubrooms, with all funds raised going towards purchasing a trishaw bike for the local Cycling Without Age programme and supporting the Tarbottons Ride Smart Park. Gather a team of 4 to 6 people and put your knowledge to the test. Doors open at 6pm for a 6.30pm start, with food available to purchase and the bar open throughout the evening. Entry is $20 per person. Local businesses can also get behind this worthwhile fundraiser by donating a prize for the Prize Wheel or a larger item for the Raffle Board. Prize donations can be dropped off to Kevin Clifford at Safer Mid Canterbury, or organisers can arrange collection. Cycling Without Age provides free volunteer-powered trishaw rides for older adults and people with limited mobility, helping create connection, inclusion and a sense of freedom in our community. To register a team or find out more, contact Donald Sutton on 027 436 1767 or email [email protected] 

• Take your tastebuds on a trip around the world at the Hakatere Food Festival in Baring Square East, Ashburton, on SAT 12 SEPT. This family-friendly event is part of Welcoming Week and will showcase a variety of international flavours, food stalls, and activities celebrating the diverse cultures that make up our community. In Baring Square East, the new space around the Clock Tower. 3pm to 8pm. Come along, enjoy great food, soak up the atmosphere, and experience flavours from around the globe right here in Mid Canterbury

• Welcoming Communities, Ashburton Conservation Trust, and Ashburton District Council’s biodiversity team are holding a Planting Day SUN 13 SEPT. At the Harris Scientific Reserve on Lovetts Rd, Tinwald. It’s a Welcoming Week planting day. Details and registration via humanitix. 

• 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. 

• ANZ Ashburton is back with its annual Daffodil Day Quiz Night and Auction on THURS 17 SEPT at Hotel Ashburton. 6.30pm start. Teams of up to five, $75. It’s a fun-filled quiz to raise funds for the Mid Canterbury Cancer Society. Team entries via email to [email protected] or online at https://www.trybooking.com/nz/BEOE

• Handbags & Gladrags is back, and set to be a fantastic night out while supporting a great local cause. Join the fun FRI 18 SEPT at the MSA from 6:30pm, headlined by a mystery handbag auction with your chance to win mystery items including beauty products and books, fashion items and gift vouchers. There's also silent auction, raffles, plus music and dancing throughout the evening. This is the 5th time the event has been held. Tickets are $35 per person, with tables of six available. Your ticket includes a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival and a shared table platter. All proceeds will go to Ashburton Safe Families, helping support local families in need. For tickets or more information, contact Anna Arrowsmith on 027 722 3204 or email [email protected]. Grab your friends, dress up, and enjoy a great night out for a worthy cause. 

• Past and present pupils, staff and community members are invited to join Fairton School as it celebrates 125 years of education in the Fairton district on FRI 18 SEPT. The milestone event will feature a tour of the school grounds, including the Kānuka Mid-Canterbury Regeneration Trust community garden, followed by a special assembly in the school hall. Guests will enjoy a presentation on the school's rich history, a roll call of former pupils and staff, afternoon tea and cake cutting. Current students will perform, with both a school singing group and the Kapa Haka group taking part in the celebrations. A special highlight of the day will be the installation of a new school bell, generously funded by a sponsor to replace the original bell that was stolen from the school. The celebrations will continue in the evening with a relaxed reunion dinner at the Celtic Rugby Club. To mark the occasion, a commemorative tea towel featuring the current Fairton School pupils is also being produced. Fairton School traces its history back to 1880, when it first opened as Newlands School in a private residence. The school later became Fairton School in 1901 and has occupied its current Fairfield Road site since 1968. Today, the school caters for students from new entrants to Year 6 and maintains a close-knit roll of around 30 to 40 pupils. Anyone wishing to attend the 125th anniversary celebrations, or who has photographs, documents or other memorabilia they would be willing to lend for the event, is encouraged to contact the school office or email [email protected]. 

• Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for the Ashburton community? Nominations are now open for this year’s Community Honours Awards. The four award categories are: Mayor’s Award for Public Service, Ashburton Medal, Environmental Champions Award (new), Civic Award. Nominations are being accepted until FRI 18 SEPT, with award recipients to be recognised at a special ceremony on 21 October. For nomination forms and full details, visit: ashburtondc.govt.nz/council/community-honours-awards. Help celebrate the people making a positive difference in our community by putting forward a deserving local today.

• Ashburton Cadet Unit is hosting comedy hypnotist David Upfold for one night at Ashburton Event Centre on SUN 20 SEPT, 7pm. Expect an entertaining night of comedy, magic and hypnosis. David is known for his energetic, engaging and enthralling live show involving audience participation and utilising the power of the mind. With no two shows ever being the same, Upfold has been entertaining audiences around the globe with his live hypnosis comedy show for over 30 years. Sponsored by Rainer Irrigation. Find more and book via the venue.  

• Gather your crew and get ready to test your knowledge at the "Set Sail for Quiz Night" Fundraiser, helping send local kids on a Spirit of Adventure voyage. Expect a fantastic night of fun questions, plenty of laughs, great company, and amazing prizes, all while supporting an incredible opportunity for young people. FRI 25 SEPT at Mt Hutt College Hall, 7pm start.  Teams of up to six people can enter for $100 per team, making it the perfect excuse to round up friends, family, workmates, or your sports team for a fun night out. To book your team or find out more, contact [email protected]

• Ashburton Rotary Bookarama is on the lookout for donations! The Ashburton Rotary Club is seeking good-quality books, CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, pictures, jigsaws, games and monthly magazines for this year's Bookarama 2026, running from MON 28 SEPT to SAT 3 OCT at the Sports Hall, Tancred Street. Bookarama has been a much-loved community fundraiser for 47 years, with proceeds supporting Rotary charitable projects both locally and overseas. If you've got items gathering dust at home, now is the perfect time to pass them on and help make a difference. Donations can be dropped off at the Sports Hall, Tancred Street, or collections can be arranged. To donate or organise a collection, contact David Mead (Convenor): 027 471 6661. Interested in getting involved with Rotary and supporting community projects? David Mead would also love to hear from you for more information. 

• Entries are now open for the annual Zonta Ashburton Women’s Art Awards, which aim to promote and celebrate the achievements of women in the visual arts. The awards are open to emerging and mid-career visual artists from across Canterbury. The Premier Award winner will receive a significant cash prize and a solo exhibition opportunity, while all finalists will have their work exhibited at Rokowhiria Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum. The event continues to grow, marking its 10th anniversary this year. The most recent awards attracted 61 entries in the Premier Award category and 23 entries in the Young Generation section for women aged 16 to 20. Entry forms are available on the Ashburton Art Gallery website, with entries closing WED 30 SEPT. 

• Run Walk Ashburton is celebrating a major milestone, marking 75 years of running and walking in the community. Former members, current members, supporters, family and friends are invited to join the club's 75th Jubilee Celebration at Hotel Ashburton on SAT 3 OCT, from 5pm. 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. To register, contact Noel on 027 608 4003 or Gary on 027 207 1478. You can also email [email protected] for more information or to secure your place. 

• The much-loved Ashburton A&P Show is set to return FRI 30 and SAT 31 OCT, promising two action-packed days celebrating rural life, community spirit, and family entertainment. Whether you're a country enthusiast, looking for a great family day out, or simply wanting to experience the best our region has to offer, this year's show has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy a fantastic lineup of attractions including children's face painting, the ever-popular Crazy Bikes, the Bayley’s Interactive Animal Shed, equestrian events, dog trials, a fiery chilli-eating competition, carnival rides and sideshows, a bustling market and of course, the ever popular Home Industries Shed. Friday night is the perfect way to kick off the weekend with FREE entry, giving families the opportunity to enjoy the carnival and food vendors, before the full programme begins on Saturday. Agriculture remains at the heart of the Ashburton Show, with impressive displays of tractors, agricultural machinery, shearing demonstrations, Highland Dancing, livestock, grain exhibits, and competitions featuring cattle, alpacas, sheep, and horses. Visitors will also enjoy exciting showjumping throughout the day, and there will be free cook-ups again on the Saturday featuring an in-ground umu, live cooking by Formosa Restaurant and free burgers by Smoke. For further information, event schedules, or exhibitor enquiries, go to ashburtonshow.co.nz or look up the Ashburton Show Facebook page. 

ONGOING

• Looking to learn something new, try a new skill, or connect with like-minded people? The Methven Summer School is back from TUES 5 – SUN 10 JAN 2027, running daily from 9am until 4pm at Mt Hutt College. This year's theme invites participants to be "Involved, Informed and Inspired" by our unique region. With expert tutors and a wide range of courses on offer, there's something for everyone. Learn how to make the most of your E-Bike, to create the best sushi, or even how to fuse glass. Full course information is available now at: www.methvensummerschool.co.nz/courses. You can also contact Rosa on 027 858 0912.  

• Hospice Mid Canterbury is looking for volunteers to join the team at its Hospice Shop on Burnett Street. Whether you can spare a few hours once a week or once a fortnight, every hour helps raise vital funds to support hospice care in Mid Canterbury. Volunteers enjoy flexible hours, the opportunity to meet new people, and full training and support. No experience is needed, just a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. For more information or to get involved, contact the Hospice Shop team on 021 067 9201 or visit them at 174 Burnett Street, Ashburton. 

• 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.