What's On Southland & South Otago

Southern Steam Train Open Day – F150 Restoration
Step back in time and discover the story behind a piece of Southland’s rail history at the Southern Steam Train Charitable Trust open day. See the restoration progress of steam locomotive F150 and hear about exciting future plans for heritage rail in the region.
Where: 95 Inglewood Road, Invercargill
When: Sunday 24 May 2026
Time: 11am – 3pm
Details:
View the restoration journey of locomotive F150
Learn about plans for future rail runs between Invercargill and Bluff
Hear about proposed heritage rail developments between Lorneville and Branxholme
Family-friendly open day with insight into local railway history
A fantastic opportunity for railway enthusiasts and the wider community to connect with Southland’s rail heritage.

Celtic Unleashed is back with a high‑energy variety concert blending the power of pipes and drums with rock ’n roll and country music — all in support of the Hokonui Celtic Pipe Band.
This popular fundraiser is a sell‑out favourite, offering locals and visitors the chance to enjoy a lively afternoon or evening of entertainment while supporting a band that gives so much back to the Eastern Southland community. The Hokonui Celtic Pipe Band regularly performs at the Santa Parade, RSA concerts, Daffodil Day and Scottish nights, and competes across New Zealand with 25 playing members — often returning home with trophies.
Where: St James Theatre
When: Sunday 25 May 2026
Matinee Show: 2pm
Evening Show: 7pm
Tickets:
General Admission – $50 + booking fee
12 & Under – $15 + booking fee
For more information: contact Event Manager Martyn on 027 766 9956.
Tickets are limited and this show always sells out — be quick.  

Gore Truck Show 2026
Rev your engines and don’t miss one of Southland’s biggest trucking events, the Gore Truck Show, proudly brought to you by McDonough Contracting. Enjoy a full day celebrating impressive rigs, great people, and plenty of action.
Where: Transport Repairs, Falconer Road, Gore
When: Saturday 30 May 2026
Time: From 9am
Details:
Judging from 9am
Truck parade departs at 2pm
Prizegiving at Croydon Lodge, Waimea Street from 4:30pm
Buffet and band to follow prizegiving
Driver entry $10 | Spectators free
Contact: Rhonda Wilson – 027 257 8895
Email: [email protected]
Bring the family along for an awesome day out celebrating trucking, with plenty to see and do for all ages.

Gatsby Charity Dinner for Dementia
A glamorous Gatsby‑themed charity dinner raising funds and awareness for families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia in Southland.
Where: Ascot Park Hotel
When: Saturday, June 6
Details: An elegant night featuring world‑class entertainment, a premium dining experience and a charity auction, all in support of Alzheimer’s Society Southland. Coordinated by Southland creative producer and award‑winning burlesque artist Jersey Rhein, the evening blends high‑end cabaret with contemporary circus inspired by the opulence of the Gatsby era. The event also highlights Dementia Donation Day, led by fundraising champions Noel, Fiona, Lorraine and Rob. Guests are encouraged to dress up and enjoy a night of generosity and connection.
Tickets: Tables via [email protected] or individual tickets through Eventfinda.

Cruise 4 Care: A Night Out with Hospice South
Cruise 4 Care returns this October with an unforgettable evening featuring golf legend Steve Williams. Known as Tiger Woods’ long‑time caddie during 13 major championship wins, Steve will share stories from the fairway and beyond, including his involvement in motorsport and speedway.
Where: Ascot Park Hotel, Invercargill
When: October 3rd 2026
Details: An evening of storytelling, laughs, hospitality and a live charity auction
Raising vital funds for Hospice South
Tickets can be purchased through the Cruise 4 Care Facebook page via Humanatix.
A night of inspiration, connection, and community backing community.

Resilient Whānau Against Meth: Gore
A free, confidential support group for whānau affected by methamphetamine use.
Where: Connected Eastern Southland Building, 5 Fairfield Street, Gore
When: First Wednesday of every month, 5:30–7pm
Details: Run by Able Minds, the group focuses on empowering, educating and connecting families, with specialist support from Able Minds field workers and partner agencies. Open to anyone supporting a loved one affected by meth.
Contact: [email protected] or 027 1930 837.

You’re not alone. Justice of the Peace – Available Weekly
Need a document signed or witnessed?
A Justice of the Peace is available every Wednesday from 6:30PM–7:30PM at the Gore District Library.
JPs provide free services to the public and can:
• Witness signatures
• Certify copies of documents
• Administer affidavits and statutory declarations
Can’t make it Wednesday? Find a JP anytime at: justiceofthepeace.org.nz

Gore Community Patrol – Volunteers Wanted
Looking for a meaningful way to contribute to your community?
Gore Community Patrol is seeking volunteers to help keep our town safe. Work alongside trained patrollers and community partners to help prevent crime and reduce harm.
To learn more or sign up:
Visit: www.cpnz.org.nz  or email: [email protected]

Become a Big Buddy – Change a Life
Family Works Southland is looking for volunteers in Gore and Invercargill to become Big Buddies — giving just 2–3 hours a week to mentor a young person in need.
Encourage confidence, social skills, and connection through a lasting friendship.
Interested? Learn more at: pss.org.nz/family-works/services/buddy-programme