What's On Southland & South Otago

Hokonui Line Dancers 
Hokonui Line Dancers are on the move, with a new day and location for Improvers Line Dancing.
Where: Esplin Room, Town & Country Club, Bury Street, Gore
When: From Monday 8 June
Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm
Details:
• Weekly Improvers Line Dancing sessions
• Now held on Mondays
• New venue — Esplin Room at the Town & Country Club
• Note: No more classes at Grace Church
• Suitable for those building on basic line dancing skills
Enquiries: Jackie 027 208 0169

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)

Balfour Lions Hay & Baleage Competition 2026
Support the local community and enjoy a great rural showcase at the Balfour Lions Hay and Baleage Competition.
Where: Balfour
When: Friday 26 June 2026
Time: Auction begins 3:00pm sharp
Details:
• Big bale categories include hay, straw, pea straw, lucerne and baleage
• Small bale categories include hay, pea straw and lucerne
• Check out competition entries and take part in the auction
• BBQ and refreshments available after the auction
Family-friendly event — everyone welcome
Contact: 027 340 3152

Riversdale Lions Club 50th Year Hay Drive Competition
Where: Andrews Transport Yard, Riversdale
When: Friday 3 July 2026
Time:
• Judging: 12:30pm
• Prizegiving: 3:00pm
• Auction: 3:15pm
Details:
• Annual Hay Drive Competition celebrating its 50th year
• Auction of entries following prizegiving
• BBQ and refreshments after the auction at Riversdale Rugby Clubrooms
• Funds raised go towards youth and medical needs in the community
• A great community day out — everyone encouraged to attend
Contact: Rhys 027 392 9687

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