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]

  • Two awesome Year 12 students from Mount Hutt College, Milla Leadley and Ruby Fuller, have created their own colouring-in books to support mental health and wellbeing. As part of the Young Enterprise Scheme, they designed these books for all ages, with 20% of every sale going to the I Am Hope Foundation, helping young people get access to the support they need. The girls put months of hard work into creating beautiful, calming designs — from animals to nature scenes — and you can grab a book for just $15. Keen to order? Flick them an email at [email protected] or [email protected]. Go support them!
  • Scouting groups from across the Mania-o-Roto area are again banding together for the popular Fert Drive! This major fundraiser helps in training of Adult Leaders, uniforms for adults, and gear used by Keas, Cubs and Scouts, such as tents, kayaks, new ropes. Pick up a bag of general lawn mix, garden mix, nitrogen, lime, rose fert and blood and bone for just $10 per bag. Place your order by THURS 21 AUG to [email protected]. Please note, no deliveries this year. Phone orders also accepted on 027 288 6946. Thanks to Balance Agri-Nutrients and Wilsons Bulk Transport. An opportunity to support local scouting, which is about helping young people to learn life skills, be part of a team and supporting all team members. Scouting is inclusive for all. They would also love to hear from any prospective Adult Leaders. Not just for parents; older siblings, aunts, uncles and grandparents are more than welcome. New adult knowledge and experience is great and sharing that knowledge is beneficial to our youth and brings diversity to the learning platform. For more on that call Dave Strong 308 8700. 
  • Kāhui Ako o Hakatere is a education community made up of thirteen local schools and fifteen Early Childhood Centres in the Ashburton area. They are are looking for volunteer van drivers to pick up children and take them to school. This service has already improved attendance at the schools in Ashburton. The children are primary and middle school students in Ashburton township. It's a great opportunity to help improve attendance rates and give these students the support they need. Drivers are need in term time and only in the mornings. The students find their own way home. Find more and apply: https://vmsc.org.nz/roles/1309/kahui-ako-school-van-drivers. You can also find more on the Kāhui Ako website: https://www.hakaterekahuiako.nz/. 
  • Ashburton Society of Arts 61st annual exhibition is on at Ashburton Art Gallery until FRI 1 AUG, allowing artists to showcase brand new pieces of art with multiple awards available. Guest artists include Gawie Bosman (metal sculptor) from Southbridge who won last year's premier award, Renata Pryzgona (landscape painter), Maysie Willis (pencil drawer), Mark James (Raku pottery) and Jan Byres (landscape painter). For information go to ashburtonsocietyarts.co.nz. 
  • Skatescool NZ Roller Disco is on at Tinwald War Memorial Hall FRI 18 JULY. Get your skates on (or theirs for $5 rental). Lessons from 6pm, Disco begins 7pm. More on Facebook.
  • Get ready for a night of songs, surprises and sweet treats with Beats By Bingo – A musical twist on classic bingo, swapping numbers for hit tracks At Celtic Clubrooms on Keenans Road FRI 18 JULY, doors open 7pm for 7:30pm start. Silent auction, spot prizes and mystery balloon surprises! Supporting Fairton School and the Baptist Preschool.  Tickets just $40 per person which includes 5x rounds of Bingo and supper. Get yours from Fairton School 308 9205 or Ashburton Baptist Preschool 308 2325. Please note this is an R18 event due to cash bar.  
  • 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. 
  • Get your dancing shoes on! Join Chertsey Home and School on SAT 19 JULY at Chertsey Hall for the Chertsey Dance, a vibrant fundraiser in support of Stage 2 of the School Bike Track. From 7 PM till late, this R18 event promises an evening of rhythm, raffles, and revelry featuring the lively sounds of The Chrome Tones Band. Dress to impress in smart casual or glammed-up attire, and enjoy a light supper, auctions, and silent auctions. Tickets are $40 and available for cash purchase at Chertsey Café. For more details you can also contact Liz on 027 537 3527.
  • Get ready to swing your partner and dance the night away with Ashburton Country Scottish Society at their Ceilidh Night on SAT 19 JULY at Ashburton MSA. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or have two left feet, you're in for a brilliant time. They've got a live ceilidh band and a friendly caller who’ll teach you all the classic Scottish dances as we go—no experience needed! The evening kicks off with an optional gin tasting (limited tickets available, so grab yours fast!), followed by a traditional haggis ceremony and supper that'll warm your heart and fill your belly. Bring a friend—or make a few on the dance floor—and join us for a night full of music, laughter, and that unbeatable ceilidh energy. Everyone who's come before has called it a great night out—come see what the buzz is all about. Tartan optional. Good vibes guaranteed. Ceilidh only: $45 per person, Ceilidh + gin tasting: $75 per person. Call 021 222 9974 or email [email protected] to secure your tickets. 
  • The Jackson Holmes Car Rally organised by Friends of Methven Primary School is on SUN 20 JULY from 10am to noon. It’s like Amazing Race meets small-town adventure - teams will follow clues, solve puzzles, and complete fun challenges all around the local area. It’s the perfect mix of teamwork, laughter, and friendly competition for all ages. For more information contact [email protected]. 
  • Artist Talk with Nadia Curnow is on at Ashburton Art Gallery SUN 20 JULY from 2pm to 3pm. Nadia will discuss her new exhibition Small Paintings Dedicated to Big Namesdrawing inspiration from an international canon of art history. 
  • 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 on Bridge Street. The sale will feature stalls selling pre-loved women's and kids' clothing. It’s a great opportunity to shop sustainably, support local netball, and find some hidden gems! They will also have Monarch cakes onsite, a coffee van and candy floss machine. All welcome. 
  • Mid Canterbury Disc Golf Mixed Championship is being hosted by Ashburton Disc Golf across SUN 20, 17 JULY and 3 AUG. Tee off 3pm. Open to those born in or currently living in Mid Canterbury. 3 guaranteed games per participant. Entry fee $6. Enter early to secure your spot - Message the Ashburton Disc Golf Facebook page, or email [email protected]. 
  • Ever wanted to play Mahjong? It's a great hobby for the cold winter months. If you're curious, why not come to the Have a Go session on FRI 25 JULY, 1pm - 3.30pm. Keep Learning Mid Canterbury is organising the event and it's suitable for complete beginners (or those wanting a refresh). It's just $5 and held at the Waireka Croquet Clubrooms. Registrations are essential.  
  • Join the Mid Canterbury TimeBank & Newcomers Network for a heartwarming Mid Winter Christmas celebration on SAT 26 JULY, 6pm. Whether you're new to the district or a long-time local, this free community event is the perfect chance to connect, share stories, and enjoy some festive cheer during the winter chill. Please bring a plate to share for the potluck dinner, and a small gift for the Danish present game. Come for the food, stay for the laughter, and leave with new friendships. Grab your free tickets today and be part of the magic! Details on the Mid Canterbury Timebank FB page. 
  • Get ready to rock to the dead! Bulletproof Convertible is a high-energy Dunedin trio bringing their popular Dead Rocker's Ball to the Mt Hutt Community Hall next SAT 26 JULY. A full-production night of music, raffles, auctions, and classic Kiwi snacks and supper. Supporting Methven Lions Club, which will also be running a courtesy coach home. Dress up as your favourite dead rock star, glam up, or just come as you are—everyone’s welcome. Doors open 7:30pm. Presale $40, Door $50 (includes supper). Tickets from the Methven Community Centre or online www.bulletproof.nz. Don’t miss this epic winter party—rock hard, dance free, and support a great cause!
  • Climb on board and sail away with Mt Hutt College and their 2025 production Unsinkable II. When a passenger is murdered, the investigation begins, with the inept inspector and a raft of other unique characters. Rumours flood the ship as to who might have committed the crime, and why. Haul up your anchor and come find out 'whodunnit'! At the MHC School Hall WED 30 JULY - FRI 1 AUG. All shows 7pm. Tickets just $10, on sale now at the school office, or you can reserve tickets by emailing [email protected] with the performance date and number of tickets required. Reserved tickets can be collected and paid for at the door on the night.
  •  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.
  • Get your thinking caps on and join Allenton Netball Club for a Quiz Night at Allenton Rugby Clubrooms on FRI 1 AUG. Doors open 6:30PM, quiz starts: 7:30PM. Teams of 4–6 people, $60 per team. Joker Round (buy an answer!), Chocolate Wheel, Silent Auctions, and Spot Prizes galore. Book in with Ashleigh Robertson at 027 659 3485. Support the Allenton Netball Club and enjoy a fantastic night out. Please note it's R18. See you there!
  • Are you involved in an arts show or project in the Ashburton District? You may qualify for financial help through the Creative Communities Scheme. Council administers the scheme on behalf of Creative New Zealand and applications open FRI 1 AUG. You can find out how to apply and see the conditions on Council’s website. 
  • Get ready for a night of trivia, laughs, and community spirit—all to help Terry reach the starting line of the New York Marathon 2025! Join for a quiz on FRI 15 AUG at Hampstead Rugby Club. Doors open 6:30pm, quiz kicks off at 7:00pm. Entry: $15 per person. Teams of 4–6, BYO drinks and nibbles. Fabulous prizes to be won! Terry needs to raise $13,000, and your support can help make it happen. To book your spot, email [email protected] with your team name, number of players, and phone number. Can’t make it? You can still support Terry via his Givealittle page. 
  • 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. 
  • Daffodil Rally for Cancer is on SUN 24 AUG at Ashburton Vintage Car Club, 86 Maronan Road, Tinwald. Show 'n Shine from 11 am to 2 pm. Open to all vehicles — any age or type welcome. Display fee: $10 per car, Spectator entry by donation. Coffee cart & food available onsite. All proceeds go to the Ashburton Cancer Society as part of the Vintage Car Club’s National Day, with similar rallies happening across NZ to support local cancer societies. More info at www.vcc.org.nz. 

 

  • 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. 
  • The National Guinea Pig Show is on SAT 20 SEPT at Mt Hutt Memorial Hall, 9:30am til 2:30pm. Come and watch the finest guinea pigs from across New Zealand compete for the title of Best in Show! Entry just gold coin donation. View rare and amazing breeds, learn about the NZ Cavy Fancy, check out the breed display and enjoy something yummy from the cafe. 
  • The Ashburton Art Gallery and the Zonta Club of Ashburton are calling for entries to the annual Zonta Ashburton Women’s Art Awards. A major cash prize and solo exhibition will be awarded to the premier winner, and all selected finalists get to have their work shown in the awards exhibition. The competition is open to all emerging and mid-career visual artists in Canterbury. The award seeks to raise the status of women artists and recognise their excellence in fine parts.  A Young Generation Award will also run for women artists between 16 and 20. The 2026 event will be mark the awards’ 10th anniversary. Entries close on TUES 8 OCT, with the finalists announced in January. The winners will be revealed in March, at the awards exhibition opening. 

  • Ashburton A&P annual two-day show is set for October 31–November 1, themed “Cultivating Community”, with preparations already underway for the show’s 150th anniversary in 2027. A celebration of evolving with the times while honouring the association’s long history. The first show took place in 1877. ‘At that time, NZ’s population was around 400,000, and farmers were transitioning from bullock to horse drawn ploughs. They are calling for people to share stories, artefacts, and ideas for the 150th celebration. Contact: [email protected]

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