What's On Southland & South Otago

Balclutha Genealogical Society – Monthly Meeting
Curious about your family history? Stuck on a mystery? Come along and get help from our friendly genealogy group.
When: Thursday 7th August 2025 7:30pm
Where: Balclutha Public Library, John Street
Topic: Solving a Family Mystery
Everyone welcome!
Enquiries: Noeline – 418 0653

Basketball South Otago’s Social Basketball League is back!
Join the fun every Monday night at the Cross Recreation Centre in Balclutha. There’s something for everyone—with a Mixed Social Section for teenagers and adults, and the Bigs & Smalls Section where adults play alongside primary-aged children (with two kids on court at all times). It’s a relaxed, inclusive environment perfect for all skill levels.
For more information: visit the Basketball South Otago Facebook page or email [email protected].

Guided Walks at Waikaia Forest Trails
Guided walks of the new MTB trail are scheduled on the following Wednesdays (weather permitting – check the Waikaia Forest Trails Trust Facebook page for postponements):
July 2nd: 1 PM to 3 PM
August 6th :1 PM to 3 PM
September 3rd: 1 PM to 3 PM
Meet at Pump Park at 1 PM
Gold Coin Donation
Enjoy the scenery and get a sneak peek of the latest trail addition!

Southland Hug a Rig Day 2025
Join us for a heartwarming community event where people of all ages with special needs or lifelong medical conditions can experience the joy of riding in a big rig, classic car or hot rod!
Venue: Southern Field Days Site, Waimumu
Date: Saturday, 9th August 2025
Time: 12 PM – 3 PM
What’s On: Rides in big rigs, classic cars & hot rods, delicious food and drink provided by the Rapid Relief Team, Tasty treats from Moreish Food & Coffee and Bees Bites, Raffle tickets available to purchase on the day
Get Involved: We welcome volunteers, trucks, and cars to help bring the magic! 
Contact: Dianne on 027 773 2700 or Ian on 0204 335 500
Facebook: Southland Hug a Rig Day for updates, photos, and more.

Say goodbye to grey skies and hello blue—Happy Days: A New Musical is coming to Gore!
Based on the hit TV series, this feel-good production brings Richie, Potsie, Ralph Malph, and the legendary Fonzie back to life, as they team up to save their beloved hangout, Arnold’s Drive-In. Expect dance contests, wrestling matches, and a whole lot of 1950s charm—including a return from Fonzie’s childhood sweetheart, Pinky Tuscadero.
Where: St James Theatre, 61 Irk Street, Gore
When: Friday 8 August – Saturday 16 August 2025
Tickets: Available now at ticketek.co.nz

Whiskey Creek Challenge 
Where: Dolamore Park
When: 13th & 14th September
Join the Hokonui Running Group for the Whiskey Creek Challenge—a unique endurance event set in the stunning trails of Dolamore Park. Choose your challenge: 3, 6, 12, or 24 hours to complete as many 5km loops as you can, either solo or in a team. Or just come along for a lap or two and soak up the atmosphere! This is a fun, family-friendly event designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing, showcase the beauty of the Hokonui Hills, and support local charities.
Entry is by donation, and every dollar given will be passed on to support great local causes.
Learn more or get involved at www.whiskeycreekchallenge.com or follow on Facebook: Whiskey Creek Challenge

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