What's On Southland & South Otago

South Otago Toot for Tucker – Christmas Can Drive
Support the Clutha Food Hub Thursday, November 20, from 6.30pm. When you hear the sirens in Balclutha, Owaka, Clinton, Kaitangata, Stirling, and Kaka Point, leave non-perishable goods at your gate or bring them out to donate. The shelves are empty, so every item counts!
For more details or to offer extra support:  [email protected] or 027 311 4867

Beyond the Gate Garden Tour & Market Day
Explore the beauty of Gore’s private gardens at the Beyond the Gate Garden Tour & Market Day.
When: Sunday November 23rd.
Market Day: 10 AM to 3 PM at Gore Showgrounds (entry by donation)
Garden Tour: 10 AM to 5 PM, tickets $25 per person, available from Hokonui Pavilion starting at 10 AM on the day.
Enjoy local stalls, fresh produce, and a self-guided tour through some of Gore’s most stunning and unique gardens. A perfect day out for garden lovers and families alike!

Gore River Valley Lions – Toot for Tucker
The River Valley Lions are proud to support the Salvation Army Food Bank with their annual Toot for Tucker collection across Gore, Mataura, Edendale, and Wyndham.
When: Thursday, 27 November
Time: From 6pm onwards
Simply listen for the toot and leave non-perishable groceries or toiletries in your letterbox. Every item donated helps local families in need—thank you for your support!

Grey Power Music Club – Afternoon of Music
When: Thursday 27th November, 1:00pm
Where: Mataura RSA
All welcome!
Band available for walk-ups, great mix of songs and dancing!
Tea, coffee, and biscuits supplied. Lunch available to buy.
Gold coin donation.
More information:  Maree – 027 392 6476

Miss Balfour is Back!
The Miss Balfour Drag Show returns with big hair, bold outfits, and even bigger personalities—all for a great cause.
When: Saturday 29 November 2025
Where: Balfour Hall
Doors open 6:00pm | Show starts 7:00pm
Tickets $50 (includes supper) – available on the Balfour Young Farmers Facebook Page
Get ready for an unforgettable night of fun, flair, and fundraising!  Proceeds support upgrades to Balfour Hall and the Balfour Young Farmers. Limited tickets—secure yours today!

West Otago Christmas Trail 2025
The Christmas Trail is back for another year! 
When: Monday 1st December – Saturday 27th December
Where: Whiskey Gully, Tapanui
Lots of new, exciting displays this year — family-friendly and can be viewed day or night!
All welcome but please keep dogs on a lead.

Gore Christmas Market 
When: Sunday, December 7, 10am–3pm
Gold coin donation:  all proceeds to Deer to Care
More info: Follow the Gore Christmas Market n Facebook
Come get merry as your browse over 70 stalls & enjoy food & coffee

Old Balclutha Hospital Centenary Reunion
The Old Balclutha Hospital is turning 100 & they warmly invite all former staff to reconnect and reminisce with an afternoon of celebration, conversation, finger food, photographs, and shared memories of your time “up the hill.
When: Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 1:00pm to 8:00pm
Where: Te Pou Ō Mata-Au (Clutha District War Memorial & Community Centre).
How to Register:
Visit the Old Balclutha Hospital Facebook page
Email [email protected]
Or pick up a registration form at Bates Pharmacy, Café 55, or the Clutha i-SITE at Te Pou Ō Mata-Au.
For more information: Margo Roxburgh 027 226 4455.

Catlins 4WD Trek 
Join the Owaka, Clinton, and Tokonui Lions Clubs for a two-day scenic 4WD trek through stunning South Otago. 
Where: South Otago
When: February 14–15, 2026
Details: Visit Catlins 4WD Trip on Facebook or email [email protected]
Contact: 027 408 9783
This event is all about adventure and supporting local communities.

Menzies College 55th Reunion 
Join us for a special one-day celebration marking 55 years of Menzies College! We welcome all former students, staff, well-wishers, and Wyndham District High past pupils to reconnect and reminisce at the college in Wyndham.
When: Saturday, 7 February 2026
Where: Menzies College, Wyndham
Register: via Eventbrite or search Menzies College 55th Reunion on Facebook.
For more information: contact Julie on 027 445 4719.

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