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]

  • A Pre-Loved Clothes Sale supporting the Hampstead Ray White B Netball team is on SUN 20 JULY, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Hampstead Club Rooms. The sale will feature stalls selling pre-loved women's and kids' clothing, with each stall costing $15. Those interested in booking a stall early can call or text 021 167 1942. It’s a great opportunity to shop sustainably, support local netball, and find some hidden gems! Let me know if you need any additional details.
  • Hampstead Rugby Club is celebrating 100 years from July 4 to 6, 2025. Friday evening will be an opportunity to catch up to share memories. On Saturday, games of rugby across the grades from juniors to seniors will be played, followed by a reunion dinner in the evening with a speaker. On Sunday people will be able to watch a golden oldies game of rugby. For registration details and more information please contact Tracey on 0274058064 or email [email protected]

 

  • Hakatere Multi Cultural Council is calling for Mid Cantabs to showcase their talents at its Multicultural Talent Show. The show is being held FRI 13 JUN at the Holyoake Auditorium at Ashburton College.There's already a number of singers and dancers signed up. They welcome more of these types of performances, along with musicians, poets and others. Co­ordinator Ana Taufa said the show, a first for the Council, would provide an opportunity for people to shine and showcase their heritage. Registrations to Ana on 027 2208791. The doors will open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start for the two-hour show, which is free and open to the public.  
  • Celtic is hosting a Luisetti Seeds Combined Country Rugby Competition Semi-Final v Glenmark-Cheviot on SAT 14 JUN. At the Club on Keenans Road, kick off 2:45pm. 
  • "On the Plus Side" Pop-Up Shop is at Hotel Ashburton SAT 14 JUN from 9am-4pm. An array of new and second hand 14+ women's clothing on offer.
  • A Hāuora Day at the Pā is on at Hakatere Marae (439 Rakaia Highway, Fairton) on SAT 14 JUN, from 2 PM to 5 PM. This free event is focused on health and wellness, offering a mix of fun activities and essential services. Come along for spot prizes, entertainment, free kai (food), games, competitions, and soft play for tamariki. There will also be free health checks and vaccinations on offer, cervical cancer screenings, and various health & wellness resources. It’s a great opportunity to connect, learn, and enjoy some community spirit at the marae. There's also a noho marae/ overnight evening of fun and sleep over. Following the success of last year. Starts 7pm with dinner, followed by a quiz and movie night, then an early morning viewing of the Matariki star cluster and concluding with breakfast. Email hakatere. [email protected] to register. 
  • Celebrate Matariki this month with an exhibition of pou made by Ashburton College students with Katie Graham. Each pou represents a star in the constellation and symbolises the region's connection to Puaka. "Puaka Matariki: To Matou Wahi, In Our Place Exhibition is open for viewing at Ashburton Museum daily 10am-4pm. 

 

  • Lions Club of Ashburton County is searching for the next young Speechmaker. It is a competition giving participants between from 16 to 21 years of age the opportunity to participate in a national public speaking contest. Entry is free to the contestants. Contestants will be required to deliver a prepared speech of not less than 5 minutes nor more than 6 minutes. An impromptu speech of not less than one minute and not more than two minutes on a topic determined by the judges with one minute to prepare their impromptu speech. Closing date for applications is SUN 15 JUNE. For more information or to enter contact Sue Green suerod. [email protected] or Karen Christensen [email protected].  
  • Rugby clubs can now apply to something called the Bunnings Rugby Assist, which provides funding to help upgrade and maintain club facilities. A spokesperson said ‘‘These clubs tirelessly serve their communities, shaping young players and providing welcoming environments for all to enjoy our sport.” This year 10 clubs will be selected; each to receive $30,000. Despite no longer having a Bunnings here in Ashburton, local clubs have done well out of this in recent years with both Celtic and Hampstead getting a helping hand. Well worth giving it a go! Open for applications online via www.provincial.rugby/bunnings­rugby­assist until SUN 15 JUNE. 
  • The Feed Methven community meal is returning for the winter season. This free weekly event welcomes everyone to share a meal together, with donations appreciated. It kicks off SUN 15 JUN, 6:30 PM at All Saints' on Chapman Street, across from Four Square. The launch event will feature a BBQ sausage sizzle, followed by Night Church for those interested. Attendees are encouraged to join one or both parts of the evening—to connect, enjoy good food, and nourish both body and spirit.
  • Bake My Day is a community initiative running during Elder Abuse Awareness Week (15th–22nd June). The event encourages people to bake treats and create handmade thank-you cards to celebrate and honor older community members. These items can be dropped off at Community House from MON 16 til WED 18 JUNE. The goal is to show appreciation and brighten the day of elderly individuals while raising awareness about elder abuse. For more contact Anna Arrowsmith 027 722 3204.
  • The Kai for Kids Coins for Kids campaign is back this Matariki week (June 16–18). The initiative invites people to host a morning tea at their workplace or home, with the charity providing a delicious spread at no cost. In return, guests are encouraged to donate a gold coin (or more) to support Kai for Kids, which provides over 700 free school lunches daily to local children. To participate, individuals need to send a message to receive a booking form, where they can specify date, time, number of attendees, and dietary needs. The event aims to bring people together for a good cause—making a difference, one cup of tea at a time. 
  • 2025 DairyNZ Farmers Forum is chance to delve into topics that are key to shaping the future of farming and the world as a whole — such as trade, technology, on-farm innovation, policy, climate change, globalisation, and nationalism. It’s on TUES 17 JUN at Ashburton Event Centre 9am-3:30pm. A group of experts and farmers who are doing amazing and innovative work on-farm will share their experiences and knowledge. Registrations are open and free for levy-paying dairy farmers and their staff. For more information, the full programme, and to register, visit the DairyNZ website. 
  • Ashburton District Council is holding a drop-in session for the public about the future of Stoney Creek stockwater intake. It will be at the Mt Somers Hall on TUES 17 JUNE from 4pm to 5pm. Property owners who pay for stockwater from the creek intake are currently being surveyed about their needs, and the wider community will be able to give their feedback during the drop-in session. Council is planning to exit its stockwater delivery service by June 2027 and is considering the future of 17 stockwater intakes from rivers and streams.  
  • Potential local body candidates are invited to an information session at Te Whare Whakatere WED 18 JUN. The approximate 28,400 eligible voters in the Ashburton District are being asked to elect a mayor and nine councillors, as well as a Methven Community Board and other community representatives. Key documents will be available at the information session, including a pre-election report, nomination forms and candidate handbooks. Nominations open on July 4. Voting documents will be delivered in September, voting will close at noon on October 11. 
  • Rotary Clubs across NZ have set a goal to collect 1 million cans of food for their Cans for a Cause project. Rotary Club of Ashburton Plains spokesperson Carolyn Clough said the items collected in Mid Canterbury will go to the foodbanks at Hakatere Marae, St Vincent De Paul and the community foodbank operated by the Salvation Army. The collection runs through until WED 18 JUN. Cans of soup, vegetables, baked beans, spaghetti, fruit and other non-perishable consumables can be dropped off to Advance Ashburton’s office Level 2, 161 Burnett St, Allenton Pharmacy at 67 Harrison St, or Blacklows at 146 South St. Alternatively call 027 221 7143 to arrange collection. 
  • A Matariki Ambrose Tournament is being held at Tinwald Golf Club on FRI 20 JUN. Players should assemble at 10:30 am, with tee times starting from 11 am. The format is 3 Person Ambrose, open to both men and ladies, and the cost is $30 per team. To participate, players need an NZ Golf handicap — but there's no need to pre-register; teams can simply show up on the day. More details on the Tinwald Golf FB page. 
  • Mt Hutt skifield is hosting a special celebration to mark Matariki on FRI 20 JUN. For those keen for an early soak there are limited places available at an exclusive Opuke Thermal Pools Matariki session using both the discovery and tranquillity pools. The 90-minute sessions begin at 4.30am. Then make your way up the mountain for a unique opportunity where the public is invited to join Mt Hutt crew and members of Ngai Tahu and Hakatere Marae for spectacular views from 2086m high on the summit of Mt Hutt. Celebrations will include a karakia for spiritual guidance and protection. For those interested in skiing, there will be an opportunity to get in a few early laps as the sun comes up. Non skiing sightseeing / stargazers welcome. The loading of Summit lift starts at 6.45am with a 7am start for the Summit Six Matariki sight­seeing experience and karakia. Sign up via the website.  
  • Ashburton College Lip Sync 2025 is on TUES 24 JUN, 7:00pm. At the College Auditorium. Tickets just $5 from the College Office. 
  • Parents and teachers of neurodivergent children aged 0-8 are invited to a free workshop. It is on supporting social connections, with Talk Together talktogether.co.nz, at the Ashburton Library, THURS 26 JUNE, 6pm to 7.30pm. Talk Together are Christchurch speech and language therapists. They provide evidence-based affirming practices for speech and language therapy and social skills development groups. For more information or to register go to events.humanitix.com.  
  • Mt Hutt is hosting an exclusive Locals Day on FRI 27 JUN from 9am to 4pm. It’s their way of saying thank you to Mid Canterbury alongside raising funds for a local group. Anyone living between the Rakaia and Rangitata rivers for at least three months can ski for just $50 per person, and gear rentals at $25 a day. Money raised will go towards the Mount Hutt College climbing wall. Find more on the website.
  • Hilarious Comedy Hypnosis Show is a family-friendly performance by Chinese hypnotist Haiming, combining laughter, jaw-dropping hypnosis, and a touch of eerie fun. Happening FRI 27 JUN at Ashburton Event Centre, 7pm. Tickets from $35. Book yours at the venue direct, or via the website. 

  • Mt Somers Winter Ball is back SAT 28 JUN at Mt Somers Memorial Hall, 64 Hoods Rd. Doors open at 8 PM. Theme: Sparkles. Entertainment: Live band “Nick & Dan”. Tickets: $70 with proceeds to Mt Somers Museum and The Village Green Information Station. No BYO, cash bar available, and supper provided. Please note this is an R18 event.

  • The Ashburton Writers' Group is hosting a Short Story Competition, open to residents of the Mid Canterbury area. Sponsored by Creative Communities and Ashburton Paper Plus, the contest offers prizes across three age categories: 11 years and under, 12-15 years, and adults (16+). Schools with the highest participation will also receive trophies and book vouchers. Entries close FRI 4 JULY, and entry forms can be obtained by emailing [email protected], or visiting the group's Facebook page. Schools in the district have already received entry forms. A great opportunity for local storytellers to showcase their creativity! 
  • Hampstead Rugby Club is celebrating 100yrs the weekend FRI 4 - SUN 6 JULY 2025. They will kick off on the Friday evening with a catch up to share memories with those they have worked and played alongside. On Saturday, games of rugby across the grades from juniors to seniors will be held, followed by a reunion dinner in the evening with a speaker. On Sunday people will be able to watch a golden oldies game of rugby. They want to make sure everyone involved with Hampstead over the past century is invited. For registration details and more information please contact Tracey on 0274058064 or email [email protected]. 
  • Farming Families is putting on a free, rural family ice skating day at Staveley Ice Rink on SAT 5 JULY from 9am to 12pm. A chance to enjoy some quality time on the ice with others in the community. Free entry, but registration is required as numbers are limited. Register online via https:/ /events.humanitix.com. Note: All children under 18 must wear a helmet. 
  • The Ashburton Astronomy Group is hosting a free pre-dawn viewing of the Matariki star cluster at Argyle Park (East end carpark area off Middle Road). This special event will take place across two weekends SAT 5 and SAT 12 JULY, from 5:45am to 7:00 am (weather permitting, need clear skies). Dress warmly for the early morning conditions. For more, contact Greg Hay (308 8856) or Alistair Perkins (308 9219). A great opportunity to observe Matariki with fellow stargazers! 
  • Wellbeing Opuke is hosting two free arts and crafts sessions for children on TUES 8 JULY - First at Methven 10 am to 12 pm at Mt Hutt Memorial Hall (160 Main Street, Methven 7730). Then onto Mayfield 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm at Mayfield War Memorial Hall (2016 Arundel Rakaia Gorge Rd, Mayfield 7778). Supported by Ashburton District Council, Wellbeing Opuke, and Ashburton Gallery. A fun, creative opportunity for kids to enjoy hands-on activities.
  • POSTPONED SAT 12 JULY: Mt Somers Springburn School presents "An evening with Matt Chisholm" at the Mt Somers Hall on FRI 6 JUN, from 7pm. Join them for an entertaining community event with this authentic Kiwi storyteller, who shares his inspiring story about mental health, resilience and challenging stereotypes. Live music from local band "The Land Girls". Grazing platters supplied. EFTPOS bar, and courtesy van available. Tickets $70 pp. To get yours contact Jaimee Kearney 0274 625 610, or find more on the school FB page.
  • An Adoption Market Day by Puss 'N Boots Kitty Rescue is on SAT 12 JULY, from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm at Sinclair Centre, 74 Park St, Ashburton. This event offers a chance to meet adorable cats and kittens looking for a forever home, alongside a garage sale, artisan market stalls, a coffee cart from Cafe Tango, BBQ, bake stall, and more. It’s a great opportunity to support local vendors while possibly welcoming a new furry friend into your life. Jump on the Puss 'n Boots FB page for more. 
  • Adding to a busy weekend for the Puss 'n Boots team, they're also hosting an Ice-Skating Fundraiser is happening on SUN 13 JULY, at Staveley Ice Rink. The event is supporting Puss 'n Boots Kitty Rescue. Attendees can enjoy ice skating and curling, with prices including bus fare, skate hire, and three hours of skating. $15 for children under 5, $25 for ages 6 and older, and $15 for non-skaters. The bus departs Ashburton (West St Carpark) at 12PM. Registrations to Rebecca on 027 937 5533. Weather-related updates will be posted on the Puss 'n Boots Kitty Rescue and Beckley Coaches Facebook pages. Important Notes: Children must be accompanied by a mature adult, and organizers are not responsible for child supervision. A great opportunity to support animal rescue while enjoying the winter season!
  • Mid Canterbury Rural Support is hosting a breakfast gathering to celebrate the rural service sector. At Ashburton Hotel on TUES 15 JULY, from 7am to 9am, with the goal of recognizing the vital role rural service workers play in their communities. Attendees will hear from Dame Sophie Pascoe, a Multi Para Olympian and New Zealand’s youngest Dame, while also gaining insight into how to identify when rural clients may need support and what services are available to them. The event emphasizes networking, questions, and discussions over a hearty breakfast. Register by TUES 8 JULY via Humanitix, or contacting the organizers at [email protected]. 
  • Murder Mystery Interactive "Great Gatsby" is a roaring 1920s-themed murder mystery where guests participate in solving the case while enjoying comedy and optional platters. Encouraged dress-up for an immersive experience. On SAT 19 JULY at Ashburton Event Centre, 7pm. Tickets from $52 to $89.50 (table seating with platters). Find more and book via the Event Centre website. 
  •  2025 Ashburton College Production "The Addams Family" is on at the College Auditorium, 7:00pm, WED 30 JULY til SAT 2 AUG. Tickets available for purchase from the College Office from Wednesday 25 June. Cost - $15.00. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the incredible talents of our students on stage, back-stage and lighting/sound; plus those of staff who ensure this platform for student successes.

 

  • 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. 
  • Cabarnet III Pour Decisions sees the lads back delivering rock ballads from past and present. A must-see for cabaret and rock music fans. Running across two weekends: August 22nd & 23rd and August 29th & 30th. All shows 7:30pm. Tickets priced at $60 (Adults) and $55 (Gold Card holders). A fundraiser for the Ashburton Event Centre. Find more and book through the venue. 

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