What's On Southland & South Otago

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. 

Balclutha Genealogical Society Monthly Meeting
Discover new ways to bring your family history to life at the Balclutha Genealogical Society’s monthly meeting. Learn practical tips on presenting your family tree and turning your research into a book, with a chance to share ideas and examples.
Where: Balclutha Public Library, John Street, Balclutha
When: Thursday 4 June 2026
Time: 7:30pm (doors open 7:00pm for research)
Details:
Learn family tree layout and presentation ideas, including wall posters
Tips on putting your family history into book format
Bring along examples to share with the group
Doors open early for research support
Everyone welcome
Enquiries: Noeline 418 0653

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. 

Riversdale Arts 53rd Mixed Media Exhibition & Gala Evening
Celebrate creativity in rural Southland at the Riversdale Arts 53rd Mixed Media Exhibition, featuring artists from across New Zealand, interactive art experiences, and a special opening night gala.
Where: Riversdale Community Centre, 85 Newcastle Street, Riversdale
When: 20th – 27th June 2026
Time: Open daily 11am – 4pm
Gala Evening: Friday 19 June, from 7pm
Details:
Artworks from throughout New Zealand showcased in a gallery setting
Exhibition gift shop with artisan-made goods
Self-led interactive art stations for visitors
On-site café serving barista coffee, lunch and light bites (11am–3:30pm daily)
Meet artists and enjoy the opening night Gala Evening
Gala includes complimentary refreshments, light supper, and award announcements
Cash & Eftpos available
Entry:
$12 season pass (unlimited entry for the week)
$10 general entry
Free for students (high school age & under)
Gala Tickets: $30 per person (online via trybooking.com or at the door)

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