What's On Mid Canterbury

• It's $5 month at Ashburton Hospice Shop! All clothes just $5 for all of February. Pop in and grab a style bargain, 71 Tancred Street. 

• Ashburton’s cadet units are opening their doors to new recruits this month. The Ashburton Cadet Unit is holding open nights on THURS evenings from 19 FEB, running from 6pm to 9pm at Mania‑O‑Roto Park, Chalmers Ave, for young people aged 13 and over. Meanwhile, Ashburton Air Cadets, No. 24 Squadron, are welcoming new members aged 13 to 15 every Thursday night in February from 7pm at Hangar 4, Ashburton Airport. A great opportunity for young people to learn leadership, teamwork and new skills.

• The Nor’ Westers Musos Club two-day 25th anniversary starts at the Devon Hotel SAT 21 FEB from 2pm until late, with a major Jam Day.The club will provide instruments. Light food will also be provided. Celebrations continue Sunday. All welcome.

• The South Island Motorhome Show and Country Fete is a not to be missed motor-caravanning event, held annually in Ashburton. ​This is the ultimate event for those interested in purchasing a new or used motorhome or caravan, looking to sell an existing motorhome or caravan, wishing to purchase accessories for a present or future vehicle or just wanting to look at ‘what’s new in the marketplace’ and socialise with like-minded people. It's on at Ashburton Showgrounds the weekend SAT 21 and SUN 22 FEB. Open to the public 9am - 4pm on Saturday, and 9am - 3pm Sunday. Entry just $5!  Electrical Warrant Inspections available, as are Self Containment Green or Yellow Certificates to NZMCA members. Members of the public, trade exhibitors and others associated with the event are encouraged to take their time and have fun savouring the vehicles and accessories on site. Also look out for the 2007 Swift Vogue 560 4-berth caravan which is being sold, with a hefty part of the proceeds being donated to Lions. Hosted by the Lions Club of Ashburton. To find out more, or to book your spot at the event, click here: https://www.southislandmotorhomeshow.co.nz/

• The Ashburton Domain oval will host the first of two international cricket matches this SUN 22 FEB, when England plays Canada in an over 70s tournament. New Zealand will play England at the oval on SUN 1 MAR, as part of the same tournament. Both matches are free to watch and start at 10am, so grab a camp chair and a viewing spot on the boundary. The tournament brings together players from around the globe for a celebration of skill, camaraderie and life-long passion for cricket.

• A heads up from NZTA Waka Kotahi - There will be overnight road resurfacing works on State Highway 1 through Tinwald starting SUN 22 FEB. There will be temporary traffic lights and temporary speed restrictions, as milling and paving of a new asphalt surface is undertaken. Access to the highway from side streets will be closed, 7pm to 5am. This work is expected to run until THURS 5 MAR, weather depending. There is also road reconstruction work just south of Tinwald, at the Longbeach Road intersection with SH1, where it is currently scheduled to be reduced to a single lane on weekdays TUES 24 FEB until WED 11 MAR. From 7am to 6pm, northbound traffic will be detoured, southbound will remain on SH1. From 6pm to 7am, the site will operate under temporary traffic lights. At weekends, both lanes are due to be open but under speed restrictions.

• Retired Family Court judge Rosemary Riddell will speak at U3A Hakatere/Ashburton on TUES 24 FEB. At Ashburton Event Centre, Wills St Ashburton. Doors open 9.30am. Lecture begins at 10.15am. Casual Visitors pay $10 at the door.

• Run and Walk Ashburton is back with the Summer Series in the Ashburton Domain. Join them for the final run TUES 24 FEB, starting 6pm from the Walnut Ave Pavilion. It's a 1km course with 1km, 3km and 5km options. All ages and abilities welcome. Dogs (on leads) and prams also welcome. Just $2 for adults and kids U18 are free, with some great spot prizes to be won!

• Ashburton Community Alcohol and Drug Service is hosting the CAAP Drink Driving Campaign Launch Night, with a free public panel discussion on the ‘‘What would you say’’ campaign. IT's being held at Ashburton Library THURS 26 FEB, 6.30pm to 8pm. Panel members include Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Hato Hone St John. Register at events.humanitix.com/caaplaunchnight

• Tinwald Garden Club is hosting its next meeting THURS 26 FEB at  the Church Hall, corner Grahams Road and Thomson Street. 2pm start. Displays, speakers, raffles, afternoon tea. All visitors welcome. 

• A big change to this year's Rakaia Fishing Competition - there will be no fish taken to the hall for weigh-in, and no requirement to fish to take part. Instead, simply purchase a ticket and go in the draw to win from $50,000 worth of prizes — think of it as a giant raffle with a purpose. A photo competition will also run during the event, encouraging participants to share images of their catch, or simply enjoying time on the river. All proceeds from the competition go directly back into the Rakaia River, supporting river care, habitat improvement, and long-term fishery recovery. The competition runs THURS 26 FEB to SUN 1 MAR. While early bird entries are now closed, general entries will be taken right up to the event. Enter by phone: 028 255 35419, or online at rakaiasalmon.co.nz. 

• Hakatere Marae is hosting a Hauora Health Day on SAT 28 FEB, from 11am to 2pm at Hakatere Marae, 438 Rakaia Highway, Fairton.

• Dairy Women’s Network is now calling for nominations for the next Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year Award. This is a great chance to recognise women who are not only making a difference on their farms, in their businesses, or in their communities, but who are also inspiring others to lead, connect, and contribute to a better future for the dairy sector. For many recipients it is about more than recognition, it enables new opportunities, connections, and growth. Mid Canterbury’s Frances Beeston was a finalist for the award this year, just pipped by Jo Sheridan. The award also opens up opportunities in the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme. Applications close SAT 28 FEB. For more information on or to nominate, visit https://www.dwn.co.nz/fonterra-dairy-woman-of-the-year/

• Ashburton District Council has its annual grants round opening SUN 1 MAR. This is the chance for local groups, volunteers, and community projects to access funding that helps great ideas grow. With nine grant categories and additional support through Creative Communities and the Sport NZ Travel Fund, there’s something to support a wide range of initiatives. From biodiversity to heritage, and even mountain bike trail maintenance. There's a new online tool called "Grant Guru" designed to make the process easier. The resource helps groups navigate what funding is available and how to strengthen applications. If your group has a great idea and needs a boost, this is the time to start planning and get your application ready. Learn more and apply at ashburtondc.govt.nz/grants. Applications must be submitted by TUES 31 MAR. 

• International cricket is coming to Ashburton, with New Zealand’s Over‑70s team set to take on England at the Ashburton Domain on SUN 1 MAR. The match forms part of the Over‑70s World Cup, bringing world‑class veteran cricketers to mid‑Canterbury. Spectators are encouraged to head along and enjoy a high‑quality contest, celebrating experience, skill and a lifelong love of the game.

• Mid Canterbury Children's Day Celebration is back at Plains Heritage Park on SUN 1 MAR, 10:30am til 2:30pm. A free day of fun!  Find more here. 

• The Ruralco Golf Classic is back at Tinwald Golf Club FRI 6 MAR. Pitched as an opportunity for the rural community to come together, the event is in support of Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust. Last year it raised $10,000 for the trust. Open to teams of three to four players, with sponsorship opportunities also available for businesses looking to support this worthy cause. For registration or sponsorship inquiries, visit www.ruralco.co.nz or contact the Ruralco team on 03 307 5100. 

• Terrace View in Tinwald is opening its beautiful grounds to the community for a fun, family‑friendly Open Day on SAT 7 MAR! Pack a picnic, bring a blanket or some chairs, and enjoy a relaxed day out with pony rides, a sausage sizzle, live music, face painting, and a range of games for all ages. Visitors can also take a tour of Terrace View’s stunning villas from 10:30am, with all the fun day activities starting from 11:30am at 37 Carters Terrace. Come along, explore the grounds, and enjoy a great day with the community! 

• The Love Grace Appeal is once again calling on the community to support women escaping domestic violence by donating handbags filled with essential items. The appeal honours the memory of Grace Millane and provides women using Women’s Refuge services with a small but powerful gift of dignity and choice. New or near-new handbags can be filled with everyday essentials such as toiletries, along with small luxury items if desired. The appeal runs until International Women’s Day on SUN 8 MAR. Filled bags can be dropped to Beauty Worx on Tancred Street. Each donated bag helps restore confidence and comfort during an incredibly difficult time. Find a list of items that could be included at facebook.com/lovegracenz. 

• "Dearly Beloved: 100 Years of the Wedding Dress" is an exhibition on at Rokowhiria Ashburton Art Gallery & Museum until SUN 8 MAR. Twelve wedding dresses spanning a century are on display in this celebration of bridal fashion and personal stories, all with Mid Canterbury connections. From classic and coloured gowns to hand-crocheted designs and unexpected materials, the exhibition also features bridesmaid and flower girl outfits, wedding accessories, and unique local treasures. Some historic gowns are on public display for the first time. There's even Greek Orthodox Stefana crowns, wartime parachute silk, and LEGO bridal bouquets. 

• The Zonta Ashburton Women’s Art Awards (ZAWAA) return to Rokowhiria Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum for their 10th year, celebrating the creativity and contribution of artists who identify as women. This year’s awards attracted 84 entries, with 47 finalists selected across two categories. Twenty-four artists are finalists for the Premier Award, while 23 young artists aged 16–20 have been shortlisted for the Young Generation Award. Aligned with the values of Zonta International, ZAWAA aims to raise the profile of women in the visual arts and acknowledge their role in shaping contemporary art discourse. Organisers say the standard of work submitted once again reflects a high calibre of artistic talent. Judging the awards are Anna McLean (Forrester Gallery Ōamaru), Dr Bridie Lonie (former Head of the Dunedin School of Arts), and Kim Pieters, established practising artist. Award winners will be announced at the exhibition opening on FRI 6 MAR at 7pm, which also coincides with the opening of a solo exhibition by Julia Holderness, winner of the Premier Award at ZAWAA25. Visitors are also invited to take part in the People’s Choice Award, voting for their favourite work during the exhibition.

• Arts on Tour NZ presents Prima Facie. This stunning one woman tour de force is directed by NZ acting royalty Michael Hurst and performed by Cassandra Woodhouse. An acclaimed Oliver and Tony award-winning play, Suzie Miller's Prima Facie is an unforgettable story that has the power to question the structure of the legal system and takes us to the heart of where emotion and experience conflict within the system as we know it. At the Ashburton Event Centre on FRI 13 MAR, 7pm. Tickets just $25. Group discounts available. Find more and book at www.asheventcentre.co.nz, or see Gudrun at the box office. 

• Cricket fans are in for a special night as Mid Canterbury Cricket hosts a fundraising dinner featuring cricketing greats Garth Galloway and Chris Harris. The event aims to raise funds to refurbish the Ashburton Domain oval pavilion and improve indoor training nets, supporting the future of cricket in the region. Guests will enjoy a buffet dinner, hear stories from the speakers’ cricketing journeys, and learn about the importance of strong facilities for developing players of all ages. The fundraiser will be held at Hotel Ashburton on TUES 17 MAR. Tickets $120pp. To secure yours call Jane 027 942 1500 or email [email protected]

• The Relay for Life is back!  Book in SAT 21 MAR at the Ashburton A&P Showgrounds to get the step count up in support of the Cancer Society. This community event is our chance to celebrate, remember, and fight back against cancer. Teams are encouraged to dress up for the chance to win a prize. Now's the time to rally friends, family, classmates, and colleagues. Early bird registration is just $10 per person. Sign up online at midcanterbury.relayforlife.org.nz. 

• The Methven Ute Muster returns on SAT 21 MAR, as part of the Methven A&P Show. Celebrating rural pride, horsepower, and community spirit. This year’s headline attraction includes a Ford Ranger world record attempt, alongside crowd‑favourite events like tug‑of‑war, multiple judged categories, and the popular Her’s Not His section. With a strong focus on inclusivity and giving back, proceeds support local groups and charities, making this a must‑attend day for ute lovers and families alike. Find more and sign up via www.methvenshow.co.nz or www.proudtobeafarmernz.com. 

• Celebrate local talent at Live on the Lawn, a relaxed outdoor music event at the Ashburton Domain on SAT 28 MAR. From 11am, enjoy live performances from Molly Harrison, Tyrone Schwalger, The Mavericks, and Amelia and Cam Luxton. Bring a picnic blanket, soak up the atmosphere on the Long Lawn near SH1, and enjoy food trucks and market stalls for a perfect day of home‑grown music and community vibes.

• Award‑winning country duo Wicker Suite are bringing their intimate, heartfelt sound to Woodbury Hall for a one off show on SAT 11 APRIL. Fronted by Ashburton‑raised musician Liam Kennedy‑Clark, the duo has built a strong following with their honest songwriting and stripped‑back performances. Joined by Molly Harrison as the opening act, this promises to be a warm, authentic night of live music celebrating community, connection, and great country storytelling.

• The 2026 New Zealand Ploughing Championships are coming to Methven alongside the popular Methven Country Fair the weekend SAT 18 and SUN 19 APRIL. Held at Dip Road, the event will showcase the very best in competitive ploughing, with classes including Silver Plough Conventional, Reversible, Horse Plough, Vintage Ploughing and Contemporary. A great weekend out for farming families and anyone interested in rural skills, machinery and tradition.

• Rakaia Rugby Club, one of New Zealand’s oldest rugby clubs, will celebrate its 150th jubilee the weekend FRI 17 - SUN 19 APRIL at Rakaia Domain. The milestone weekend begins with an informal catch-up on Friday evening. Saturday features a full club day with games across all grades, followed by a jubilee banquet headlined by former All Black captain David Kirk. The celebrations wrap up on Sunday, with a brunch and farewell. The club has also been a pioneer — holding the record as the first club to win the Watters’ Cup four years in a row. All events will be hosted at the club’s new purpose-built clubrooms at the Rakaia Domain. Find more on the Rakaia Rugby Facebook page. 

ONGOING

• 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 every WED from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

• 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.

• 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.