What's On Mid Canterbury

Foundation for Arable Research researchers Rene van Tilburg and Sam McDougall are hosting a maize winter workshop at Hotel Ashburton on THURS 30 JULY. It will cover how maize grain/silage responds to no-till, strip-trill and full cultivation under different soil types. Differences in nitrogen cycling after ryegrass, tick beans and crimson clover. It runs from from 10am — 1.30pm. Register via far.org.nz.

Fairton Home and School is bringing the fun with a Musical Bingo Fundraiser Night FRI 31 JULY at the Allenton Rugby Clubrooms. Gather your friends, book a group table, and get ready for a night of music, laughs, and plenty of chances to win. Doors open at 6.30pm, with bingo kicking off sharp at 7.30pm. Your $40 ticket includes entry, supper, spot prizes, and five rounds of musical bingo. There'll also be a mini bid auction, balloon draws, and a cash bar operating throughout the evening. Please note this is an R18 event, with all proceeds supporting Fairton Home and School initiatives. To secure your tickets, email homeandschool@fairton.school.nz.

Experience an evening of colour, culture, music and dance at the Hakatere Multicultural Talent Show on FRI 31 JULY at Tinwald Memorial Hall. This is a free family-friendly event celebrating the rich diversity of Mid Canterbury. More than a dozen cultures will be represented on stage, with performances from across the globe including Cook Islands dancing and drumming, Kapa Haka, Highland Dancing, Sri Lankan, Nepalese, Samoan, Indian, Tongan, Fijian, Latin American and K-pop performers, along with soloists from Afghanistan and other cultural groups from throughout the region. One of the highlights will be a special performance by Christchurch-based Cook Islands cultural group Avaiki Ou, featuring several Ashburton members making their first public appearance in the town. Hosted by the Hakatere Multicultural Council, the event is an opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy cultural performances, sample international cuisine and celebrate what makes Mid Canterbury such a vibrant and welcoming place. Doors open 6.00pm, for a show starting 6.30pm. Entry is free!

Think you’ve got what it takes to be the quiz champions of Methven? Round up your friends, family, workmates or club members and head along to the Methven Golf Club Quiz Night on FRI 31 JULY for a great night of laughs, friendly competition and fantastic prizes. Teams of four will battle it out across a range of quiz categories, with cash prizes up for grabs. There’ll also be a great raffle table and a cash wheel during the breaks to keep the excitement going throughout the evening. At Methven Golf Club 7.00pm (doors open 6.00pm). $80 per team ($20 per person) – supper included. Pay on the night. Please note this one is for the adults 18+. Register your team now by email methvengolf@xtra.co.nz, or phone 027 502 8439.

The Methven Craft Fair on SAT 1 AUG 10:00 am–4:00 pm at the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall. It's a community fundraiser featuring talented local makers, food, and family-friendly shopping. It is a fundraiser run by the Lauriston School Support, which is a parent run group dedicated to raising funds for the students at Lauriston School. They have raised funds for school camps and field trips, learning support, the running of our school pool and whatever is needed to give the students the best primary school experience.

Head out to Methven this SAT 1 AUG for an afternoon of great rugby, community spirit, and fundraising as the Rakaia Gorge Musterers take on Methven Rugby in the annual Charity Rugby Match. This is the longest running charity rugby match in the Southern Hemisphere. Kick-off: 2:30 PM at Methven Rugby Club. This is more than just a game, it's an opportunity for our community to come together and support an incredible cause. All funds raised on the day will go directly to St John, helping them continue the vital work they do throughout our local communities. Bring your family and friends along for an enjoyable afternoon of rugby, food, raffles, and community spirit. Your support will make a real difference. If you'd like to donate an item or experience, please email: rgmvsmethven@gmail.com. The Under 85kg game between Methven Mayhem & Waihora Rugby Football Club will be the curtain raiser game before the main charity match.

Got a question about the future of New Zealand? Here's your chance to have your say. Join current Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and local MP James Meager for a public meeting at the Ashburton Event Centre this SAT 1 AUG. The meeting gets underway at 11am and is open to everyone. Come along to hear directly from your elected representatives, learn more about the Government's priorities, and ask questions on the issues that matter to you and your community.

Farming families are giving rural families a chance to get off farm for some fun and connecting with others from the rural community. They are providing a free ice-skating session on SAT 1 AUG at the Staveley Ice Skating Ring from 9am. A thank you to all those families who work hard to keep rural communities thriving. Register for tickets via Humanitix or the Farming Families Facebook Page.

Looking for some creative inspiration this winter? The Ashburton Society of Arts' annual exhibition is now on display at Rokowhiriia, Ashburton's art gallery and museum. The exhibition showcases work from society members, who will be on site throughout the exhibition period, providing a great opportunity to meet local artists, learn more about the organisation, and explore a diverse range of artwork. Opening Hours: 10am–4pm, seven days a week. Be quick, it’s only on until SUN 2 AUG. For further information, contact Rokowhiriia Art Gallery and Museum or the Ashburton Society of Arts.

Ashburton College presents their production The Ash Girl, by Timberlake Wertenbaker. Takes the classic Cinderella story and turns it on its head! When Prince Amir invites the kingdom to the Ball, Ashgirl is trapped—not just by her circumstances, but by the Seven Deadly Sins whispering in her mind. To get her happy ending, she has to fight the monsters lurking within. Dark, beautiful, and deeply relatable, this is a production you won't want to miss. On at the school auditorium WED 5 - SAT 8 AUG, all shows 7pm. Tickets $15 from the school office.

Mount Hutt College production “So there was this plane” is set for take off this term. With another original script and score, full of quirky characters, humour, and survival, this show is a must see. On at school hall WED 5 – FRI 7 AUG, all shows 7pm. Tickets are $10 per person, and can be purchased from the school office, or email cheneryj@mthutt.school.nz. Raffles and refreshments available for purchase on the night.

Spray experts Tom Wolf and Jason Deveau are bringing their popular Sprayers 101 workshops to Ashburton, helping arable growers improve spray accuracy, reduce drift and get more from every application. Organised by FAR, the practical sessions will cover nozzle selection, spray timing, drift management and emerging drone technology. On WED 5 AUG. Register for the workshop on the FAR website at far.org.nz/events

Get ready for an electrifying night of music asTheBoyzAre BackInTownbrings the timeless hits of Gavin Templeton's celebratedJust theBoyzproduction to life. On stage FRI 7 to SUN 9 AUG, this high-energy concert promises outstanding musicianship, unforgettable songs, and a fantastic night out for music lovers of all ages. Best of all,all profits will go towards the Future Fundraising Campaign, helping support the Ashburton Event Centre. Adults $35,Seniors/Students $29. Tickets available from the Ashburton Event Centre.

Need funding for your club, charity or community group? The Mid Canterbury Funders Forum Funding Clinic is being held at 5.30pm WED 12 AUG in the Ashburton College Auditorium. This free event is designed for Mid Canterbury charitable organisations, clubs and not-for-profit groups looking for funding opportunities. Local funders will explain which organisations they fund, what projects and costs are eligible, how much funding may be available, and tips for writing a successful funding application. Each funder will present a short overview, followed by the opportunity to speak with funders one-on-one and ask questions. A representative from all local not-for-profit groups is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact the Ashburton Community Foundation (AACF), which currently chairs the Mid Canterbury Funders Forum.

Kai for Kids is holding a Flourish and Nourish evening celebrating women's health, wellbeing and financial empowerment. Guest speakers include Zoe Wallis (a CFA investment strategist with Forsyth Barr), Loretta Hogg (strength and conditioning coach) and Cara Calvin (identity transformation coach). The evening is a fundraiser for Kai for Kids who provide meals and morning teas to children in local schools and kindergartens. On THURS 13 AUG, 7pm at the Ashburton Event Centre. Tickets $62.25 and available via Humantix.

Ashburton Volunteer Fire Brigade is launching a new 10-week cadet course for students in Years 9 to 13. It’s a hands-on programme to develop real life skills, teamwork and leadership, and learn firefighting skills alongside experienced local firefighters. It starts MON 17 AUG. An introduction evening is being held MON 10 AUG. Email expressions of interest today to: craig.wakelin@fireandemergency.nz

Nominations are now open for the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards. Honouring everyday people and leaders who make outstanding contributions to wellbeing. There are seven categories spanning community service, innovation, environmental work, and leadership. Anyone over 15 years old can make a nomination at nzawards.org.nz. Nominations close TUES 18 AUG.

Mid Canterbury farmers are strongly represented among the finalists for the 2026 Arable Awards. They include Ashburton’s Lovett Family Farms, led by Daniel Lovett, and maize grower Mark Shera. Also Methven farmers Brendan and Rachel Moore and John and Mel McCaw, and Jeremy and Kate Simpson of Rakaia. Ruralco agronomist Nicola Pace and PGG Wrightson Seeds representative Sean Mulligan are also finalists in their respective categories. The annual awards recognise excellence across New Zealand’s arable industry and celebrate the growers, agronomists and businesses leading the way in innovation, sustainability and productivity. The Foundation for Arable Research notes how this year’s finalists have stood out despite challenging conditions, including the continued pressure on fuel and fertiliser prices. "More than ever, the industry needs the innovation, commitment to excellence, environmental stewardship, research and willingness to share knowledge that these finalists bring." An overall Arable Farmer of the Year will be selected from the finalists in the Cereal Grower, Seed Grower and Maize Grower categories. The winners will be announced at the Air Force Museum in Christchurch THURS 20 AUG. Tickets are available at arableawards.co.nz.

Step into the magical world of Narnia! Ashburton Christian School presents Narnia the Musical at the Ashburton Event Centre on THURS 20 and FRI 21 AUG, starting at 6.30pm each evening. Tickets are available from the Ashburton Event Centre.

Southern Netball are celebrating their 25th anniversary and organisers are looking for photos and memorabilia associated with the club. The event will be acknowledged with an afternoon tea, cake cutting and prizegiving at the Hinds Community Centre on SUN 23 AUG. Anyone with information can contact Jo via email swandri1@hotmail.com

Locals are being encouraged to have their say on a proposed variable speed limit outside Hakatere Marae on State Highway 1 at Fairton. NZTA is consulting on plans to introduce electronic Variable Speed Limits (VSLs), which would temporarily reduce the speed limit from 100km/h to 60km/h when vehicles are entering or leaving the marae during tangihanga and major community events. The Hakatere Marae proposal is one of three Canterbury state highway locations currently under consultation. The others are the State Highway 8/Aoraki Mt Cook intersection and a section of State Highway 1 at Glenavy. Feedback on the proposal is open now and closes at 5pm on MON 25 AUG. For more information or to make a submission, visit: nzta.govt.nz/targeted-speed-limit-reviews-central-and-lower-south-island

Wakanui School is celebrating a remarkable milestone – 150 years of growing the future. Former pupils, staff, families and members of the community are invited to join the celebrations from THURS 17 – SAT 19 SEPT. The festivities begin with a 150 Years Showcase at the Ashburton Event Centre on Thursday, followed by an open afternoon at the school on Friday featuring bell ringing, tree planting, cake and afternoon tea. Saturday's programme includes friendly hockey games, a bus tour of the Wakanui district, and a special 150th Celebration Dinner at the Ashburton Hotel. To register your interest, visit the Wakanui School 150 Years Facebook page, email penny@wakanui.school.nz, or call 03 302 3899.

Past and present pupils, staff and community members are invited to join Fairton School as it celebrates 125 years of education in the Fairton district on FRI 18 SEPT. The milestone event will feature a tour of the school grounds, including the Kānuka Mid-Canterbury Regeneration Trust community garden, followed by a special assembly in the school hall. Guests will enjoy a presentation on the school's rich history, a roll call of former pupils and staff, afternoon tea and cake cutting. Current students will perform, with both a school singing group and the Kapa Haka group taking part in the celebrations. A special highlight of the day will be the installation of a new school bell, generously funded by a sponsor to replace the original bell that was stolen from the school. The celebrations will continue in the evening with a relaxed reunion dinner at the Celtic Rugby Club. To mark the occasion, a commemorative tea towel featuring the current Fairton School pupils is also being produced. Fairton School traces its history back to 1880, when it first opened as Newlands School in a private residence. The school later became Fairton School in 1901 and has occupied its current Fairfield Road site since 1968. Today, the school caters for students from new entrants to Year 6 and maintains a close-knit roll of around 30 to 40 pupils. Anyone wishing to attend the 125th anniversary celebrations, or who has photographs, documents or other memorabilia they would be willing to lend for the event, is encouraged to contact the school office or email principal@fairton.school.nz.

Entries are now open for the annual Zonta Ashburton Women’s Art Awards, which aim to promote and celebrate the achievements of women in the visual arts. The awards are open to emerging and mid-career visual artists from across Canterbury. The Premier Award winner will receive a significant cash prize and a solo exhibition opportunity, while all finalists will have their work exhibited at Rokowhiria Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum. The event continues to grow, marking its 10th anniversary this year. The most recent awards attracted 61 entries in the Premier Award category and 23 entries in the Young Generation section for women aged 16 to 20. Entry forms are available on the Ashburton Art Gallery website, with entries closing WED 30 SEPT.

Run and Walk Ashburton is inviting past and present members, along with the wider community, to join in celebrating 75 years of the club on SAT 3 OCT. Founded in 1951 as the Ashburton Harrier Club, the organisation has grown and evolved alongside the sport itself, from cross-country harrier racing and road relays to today's popular trail running, walking and endurance events. Over seven and a half decades, generations of Mid Canterbury residents have laced up their shoes through the club, creating friendships, memories and a lasting legacy of fitness and community spirit. The celebrations will begin with a group walk and run at Lake Hood at 1.30pm, before moving to the Hotel Ashburton from 5pm for an evening social gathering and dinner. The event will provide an opportunity for former and current members to reconnect, share stories and reflect on the club's rich history. Special guest speaker wll be John McBrearty. For more information or to register your interest, contact Noel Batty: 027 608 4003.

The much-loved Ashburton A&P Show is set to return FRI 30 and SAT 31 OCT, promising two action-packed days celebrating rural life, community spirit, and family entertainment. Whether you're a country enthusiast, looking for a great family day out, or simply wanting to experience the best our region has to offer, this year's show has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy a fantastic lineup of attractions including children's face painting, the ever-popular Crazy Bikes, the Bayley’s Interactive Animal Shed, equestrian events, dog trials, a fiery chilli-eating competition, carnival rides and sideshows, a bustling market and of course, the ever popular Home Industries Shed. Friday night is the perfect way to kick off the weekend with FREE entry, giving families the opportunity to enjoy the carnival and food vendors, before the full programme begins on Saturday. Agriculture remains at the heart of the Ashburton Show, with impressive displays of tractors, agricultural machinery, shearing demonstrations, Highland Dancing, livestock, grain exhibits, and competitions featuring cattle, alpacas, sheep, and horses. Visitors will also enjoy exciting showjumping throughout the day, and there will be free cook-ups again on the Saturday featuring an in-ground umu, live cooking by Formosa Restaurant and free burgers by Smoke. For further information, event schedules, or exhibitor enquiries, go to ashburtonshow.co.nz or look up the Ashburton Show Facebook page.

ONGOING

The ‘Buy-a-brick’ campaign with Mid Canterbury Cricket Association is aiming to raise $25,000 to complete its indoor net facility upgrade. It is the final push needed for the facility. Anyone interested in supporting the campaign can contact Jane Fowles at jane@ever-safe.co.nz or by phone on 027 942 1500.

A boost for young people looking to get behind the wheel. 25 licence scholarships are now available thanks to $6500 in funding from Advance Ashburton Community Foundation to Y Drive, the driving school operated by The Y Central South Island. It will cover 15 learner licence scholarships and 10 restricted licence scholarships for deserving local youth. A driver’s licence can be life-changing for young people, particularly in rural communities where transport options are limited. Scholarship recipients will receive professional driving instruction and mentored practice sessions to help them gain the skills and confidence needed to sit their tests. Applications are open now. For more information on eligibility and the application process, contact Sharyn Kake at y-drive@ymcasc.org.nz or call 027 368 7018.

Did you know that Mid Canterbury Netball run walking netball on a Tuesday? It's low impact exercise and a lot of fun! It's netball with a few rule alterations - no running or jumping allowed, but you do get a bit more time with the ball and you won't get pulled up if you take an extra step... Whether you're a retired player wanting to get back in to it, or if you've never played netball before but want to have a go - this is for you!! All ages and all abilities - you're never too old to start. Why not come along and give it a crack this week? There's 2 time options - 9.30am or 5.30pm - and the first game is free! Netball MC would love to see you.

CanBead is marking its 15 year anniversary by launching a fundraising campaign on Givealittle to raise $20,000. It’s to keep their workshops running and extend their reach to more kiwis who need them. The charity, founded by Sarah Clifford of Ashburton, offers free creative therapy workshops to people facing illness, trauma, and loss. It started as a quiet act of personal healing as she went through melanoma treatment; she make one necklace every day. Those necklaces were auctioned and the proceeds used to launch CanBead. It is now a nationwide movement of creativity, compassion, and community. Last year, more than 1400 took up the option. CanBead — officially the CanInspire Charitable Trust — works with other registered charities to reach people through organisations they already trust. To donate givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-us-celebrate-15-years-of-canbead

Ashburton Writers’ Group members have put together their second anthology of interesting tales. It’s called Group Therapy: The Sequel. Proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to Mid Canterbury Riding for the Disabled. The anthology showcased the ‘‘wonderful and wide-ranging pieces’’ of members, as well as short stories from the top three writers in each category of the annual Ashburton short story competition. Writers’ group members were encouraged to submit their best story or two from topics given at meetings during the year for inclusion in the book. Nine members took up the challenge and submitted 31 stories, each up to 500 words. Youngest member Meghan Nish, 14, also illustrated the front cover. The group did their first anthology about five years ago, and following its success decided to repeat the process. Group Therapy: The Sequel costs $20 per book and can be purchased via the Ashburton Writer’s Group Facebook page or via Nigel Dean on 027 232 8174.

Hotel Ashburton has a new card group. You're welcome to come along every TUES for 500 and Euchre, starting 1:30pm. Entry $3. Cards and Board Games on FRI starting 1:30pm, gold coin donation. You're welcome to join a lunch held beforehand. Then FRI evenings join in fun Housie. Doors open 6:30pm, first call 7:15pm. Cards from $2.

Litter Free Ashburton holds its group litter collection on the second THURS of each month, meeting 1:30pm on the corner of SH1 and Havelock Street near the former library. It is looking for more members. If you can help, please inquire via the Litter Free Ashburton FB page or simply turn up at the meeting. Resources supplied.
Kai's Up offers a free meal for anyone - no judgement, no criteria. Every THURS (yes, even in the rain), 6pm in The Catholic Church carpark, corner of Havelock and Park Street. Feel free to bring your own containers. Meal, hot/cold drink, sweet treat provided. Stick around and eat on site, or bring your own container and take home to eat. Families welcome. Thank you to all the volunteers behind the scenes that make this happen. Follow Kai’s Up on FB.

Join the global movement that is Parkrun! Every SAT starting 8am, take a jog from Walnut Ave through our stunning Domain. If running or walking isn't your thing, you could consider volunteering. They need people in a variety of roles including: photographers, first timer welcome, time keepers, pre event course check, course marshals, tail walkers, report writers, barcode scanners, finisher tokens, warm up leaders, course setup and close down. If you are interested or would like to find out more, search for "Ashburton Domain" on Park Run website or email ashburtondomain@parkrun.com. Run, walk, volunteer!!

Need something signed by a Justice of the Peace? JPs are available every TUES and FRI at their new spot in the Ashburton Library. Pop in between 12pm-2pm, no appointment needed.
Mid Canterbury Citizens Advice Bureau is now offering drop-in sessions at the Ashburton Library every WED from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

Need a van? Does your sports club, dance club, social club or school go on trips or outings as a group, and you would like to travel together? Community House has a 12 seater van available for hire. For more details or to book please visit the website https://www.communityhousemc.co.nz. You can also give them a call 03 308 1237, or email reception@communityhousemc.co.nz.

Hampstead Sports Club is back hosting Housie! Come along for a night of fun, laughs, and the chance to win some great prizes. On every TUES, doors open at 6:30pm, with Housie starting 7pm. At Hampstead Sports Club off Bridge Street. New faces are always welcome — it’s a great way to catch up with friends and start the year with a bit of excitement. Don’t miss out — fun, prizes, and laughter guaranteed! Find more on the Hampstead Sports Club NZ Facebook page.

Rakaia Sunday Market and "Art & All" museum and antiques is on every first and third SUN of the month (weather permitting). On the corner of Railway Tce West & Rolleston Street - Near the dog park. 10am-3pm. Plenty of parking. Please bring cash, although there is some EFTPOS available. Food, entertainment, arts &crafts, farm fresh meat, baking, plants & compost and fishing gear all on offer. If you wish to sell - single stall $20, double $40. Food vendors also welcome. To find out more and book your spot call 0224192781.

Citizens Advice Bureau Mid Canterbury are celebrating having 500 entries in their community directory. It’s a free resource for people who are looking for information and groups within the district from starting a new sport or hobby, hire a hall for an event or need support from a social service. Access via ashburton.cab.org.nz

A flood warning text-alert service is available in Ashburton, giving residents early notice when rivers start to rise and there is a risk of flooding. Canterbury Regional Councilsaysthe system – available on 12 river floodplains across the region – provided a crucial extra layer of early warning and can make a life-changing difference for people living or working near rivers.These text alerts give people precious time to prepare – time to move stock, shift equipment, protect property, and keep their families safe.The free opt-in service sends automated text messages when river flows reach thresholds that may result in flooding. Residents can sign up by texting the relevant river name to 3730. When the selected river reaches a critical flow threshold, subscribers receive an early-warning text. To opt out, text cancel to 3730.

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