What's On Mid Canterbury

  • Matariki is being celebrated at Ashburton Museum with a new immersive exhibition titled ‘Matariki herenga waka: A mooring place for all canoes’. There will be waka hourua decorated by students of Ashburton Intermediate School which ‘sail’ through the space, representing Whakatere Ashburton as a community of many ‘canoes’: diverse people and identities who call Mid Canterbury home. The interactive exhibition of light and sound is free entry. 
  • Get your team together for a night of fun, facts and fabulous outfits at The Big Dress‑Up Quiz! Hosted by Connecting Mid Canterbury, this lively quiz night invites teams to pick a theme, dress the part and bring their best brains. On FRI 5 JUN at the Ashburton Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street. Doors open at 5:30pm, with the quiz kicking off at 6:30pm. Teams of six people can enter for $15 per person. Expect a great night out, with prizes for the best dressed team and top quiz scorers, plus raffles and spot prizes. Supper is provided, and it’s BYO drinks. All funds raised support the charities Keep Learning Mid Canterbury and MC TimeBank, helping strengthen learning and community connections across the region. Book in by email to Kate@connectingmc.org 
  • The Tapestry Trust of New Zealand is creating a visual history of NZ, and Ashburton Embroiderers' Guild is giving the public the chance to add a stitch or two to the Suffragette panel. It will be at the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum on SAT 6 JUN between 10.30am and 3.30pm. Also that day at the Art Gallery, the Ashburton Family History Group will talk, from 11am, on the Mid Canterbury women who signed the petition to get the women the vote as well as the suffrage movement. The group has spent many years researching the Mid Canterbury women who signed the suffrage petition. At this talk, you will hear about their findings and add local context to this pivotal moment in time. 
  • Ever dreamed of being on stage? Now’s your chance! Methven Theatre Company is bringing Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat to life this winter—and they’re on the hunt for locals to get involved. They’re looking for actors, singers, dancers, backstage crew… and even a few people happy to just be a tree! No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and have some fun in a friendly, supportive environment. Auditions are being held SUN 7 JUN, 4–6pm at Mt Hutt Memorial Hall, Methven. To grab an audition pack or find out more, get in touch: methventheatreco@gmail.com. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or trying theatre for the first time, this is your chance to get involved in a fun, creative, and supportive environment. 
  • Get ready for a fantastic night of local talent as the Mt Hutt College Arts Evening returns TUES 10 JUN. Held in the Mt Hutt College Hall, this vibrant showcase will feature an exciting mix of dance, drama, and live music, celebrating the incredible creativity of students. Come along, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy delicious eats from the food truck on site. Plus, don’t miss the auction, with all proceeds going towards the I Am Hope charity, supporting youth mental health. Doors open 6:00pm, show starts at 6:20pm. Bring your friends, bring your whānau, and be part of a meaningful evening that supports a great cause while showcasing the arts in our community. 
  • BCITO, in conjunction with Ashburton College, is hosting a Trades Secrets event to showcase careers in the building and construction industry. Come along WED 10 JUN, from 6pm to 8pm at Ashburton College, 27 Walnut Avenue (Rangitata Block). This free event is a great opportunity to learn how to get qualified without a student loan, chat one-on-one with training advisors, and hear from employers and apprentices already working in the trades. Kai will also be provided. To book your spot, head to tradesecrets.nz. For more information, contact John Moore on 027 230 8102. 
  • The Rotary Club of Ashburton Plains is again getting behind “Cans for a Cause”, helping restock local food banks. Clubs across NZ aim to collect a whopping one million non-perishable items for donation. Nonperishable items can be dropped off to Advance Ashburton Community Foundation at Level 2, Somerset House (161 Burnett St); Blacklows Tradezone Ashburton at 146 South St or Allenton Pharmacy at 67 Harrison St. Items will be passed on to Salvation Army Foodbank, St Vincent de Paul Foodbank, and Hakatere Marae Foodbank. Please get your donation in by FRI 12 JUN. Together, we CAN make a difference!  
  • Ashburton Highland and National Dancing Association competitions are on at the Ashburton Event Centre SAT 13 JUN, starting at 8.30am. Open to the public. 
  • Ashburton Musical Club is hosting a Jazz Trio Concert at the Sinclair Centre on SUN 14 JUN from 2pm. Featuring internationally acclaimed jazz musician Glyn MacDonald, who is a pianist, composer, trombonist, and educator whose career has spanned Canada, Europe, Australia, China, and New Zealand. He has performed and recorded with leading jazz artists including James Morrison, Andy Firth, and Rufus Reid, appeared at major international festivals from Rome’s Villa Cillemontana Jazz Festival to the Beijing International Jazz Festival, and performed for state receptions honouring Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. Glyn will perform, alongside Luke Belcher on bass and Daniel Pawsey on drums. Non-members $25, members $10, students free. Afternoon tea to follow. 
  • CanBead Mid and South Canterbury are calling for stallholders for their fundraising artisan market. The event, at the Tinwald Hall, on Graham St, is an annual fundraiser for the illness, trauma and loss support group. It is on SUN 14 JUN from 11am to 3pm. To book a $40 site email charlene@caninspire.org.nz 
  • Ashburton District Council is hosting a business breakfast event with economist Brad Olsen at the Hotel Ashburton MON 15 JUN, 7am-9am. Tickets just $35/person (plus booking fee) which includes full breakfast, tea and coffee and of course some great insight and discussions as well as Q&A time. Book via https://events.humanitix.com/business-breakfast-with-brad-olsen/tickets.  
  • Stockwater users in the Lagmhor Westerfield area are being invited to a public meeting on MON 15 JUN. At the Lagmhor Westerfield Hall, at 4pm. The meeting will include information about district council’s plans for the future of Remington Creek intake, Shepherds Brook intake, Lagmhor Creek intake and Langdons North and South intakes. Councillor Richard Wilson notes the Lagmhor Creek also supplies the Tinwald Domain, so expects a lot of interest. He is encouraging people to come along, learn about the work and ask questions. 
  • Get ready for a magical mid‑winter night at the Mt Somers Winter Ball. It’s back SAT 20 JUN at the Mt Somers Memorial Hall, 64 Hoods Road. Doors open from 8pm, with live music from Nick & Dan, a sparkles theme, and a great night of dancing guaranteed. Tickets are $70, with supper provided, a cash bar available, and no BYO. This is an R18 event and always a popular night out on the Mt Somers social calendar. Enquiries & tickets via Mt Somers Winter Ball organisers / Mt Somers Store.  
  • Ladies! Ever thought about giving competitive paintball a go? Here’s your chance. A special Women in Paintball Coaching Weekend is coming up the weekend FRI 3 – SUN 5 JUL. At Lake Hood Paintball Park, designed to introduce and support women in the sport—whether you’ve never picked up a marker or you’re keen to take things to the next level. They’re excited to welcome a highly experienced female paintball player from Australia, who’ll be sharing her knowledge, talking about the challenges women face in the sport, and helping grow the game locally. Friday Afternoon/Evening will include field layout walkthroughs and tactical planning sessions. Then full-day coaching clinics Sat and Sun, including dedicated “Never Ever Played” beginner session for first-timers. The best part? Coaching is completely FREE — you’ll just need to cover paintballs, which are heavily discounted for the weekend, $80 for 2000 paintballs (normally $10 per 100!). This is a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and be part of growing women’s participation in paintball right here in Mid Canterbury. 
  • Train lovers of all ages are invited to the Ashburton Model Train Show, rolling back into the Tinwald Memorial Hall the weekend SAT 4 and SUN 5 JULY. 10:00am – 4:00pm both days. Jump aboard and explore an impressive range of detailed model train displays, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just looking for a great family outing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Adults: $10, Children: $3, and Family (2 adults, 2 children): $20. With food available and EFTPOS on site, it’s an easy and enjoyable day out for the whole family. For more information, visit: www.ashburtontrainshow.co.nz 
  • Get involved in the Ashburton Rowing Club’s Erg (Indoor Rowing) Challenge, happening at the ARC Shed at Lake Hood SAT 18 JULY from 10am. Participants can take on either a 1km or 2km challenge, with categories for male and female competitors (under 18 and senior), as well as team events (male, female or mixed teams of four). Teams can decide how to complete their 2km relay. This event is open to all fitness levels, and training support is available for first-timers, including coaching and introductory sessions for those new to the rowing erg. Entry fees: $45 for individuals or $180 per team of four. Entries close FRI 17 JULY (early bird training opportunities available for those who register earlier). To register or find out more, email arcergchallenge@gmail.com or check out Ashburton Rowing Club on Facebook.
  • A first for Ashburton! The Mid Canterbury Tri and Multi-Sport Club E‑Sport Arena Championship hits the EA Networks Centre SUN 26 JUL. Combining swimming, cycling, running, and cutting-edge technology in a high-energy, spectator-friendly arena environment. Athletes will take on a unique three-stage challenge: a 250 metre pool swim, a 10 kilometre Zwift ride, and a 2.5 kilometre treadmill run, all backed by live results and an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a social participant, or just keen to give something new a go, there are individual and team options, with youth (12+) and adult divisions. Best of all – all abilities are welcome. First race gets underway at 9:00am. For entries and full event info: 
    www.mctriandmultisport.co.nz. For enquiries, contact the Mid Canterbury Triathlon & Multisport Club via their website or social media pages. Swim. Ride. Run. Compete. Anyone. Everyone. Epic. 
  • Wakanui School and Fairton schools are planning for milestone events later this year. Wakanui will celebrate its 150th anniversary from September 17 to 19. Organisers are planning a range of events from a drama, telling the history of the school, to a game of hockey. Register for more information email penny@wakanui.school.nz. Meanwhile Fairton School is planning its 125th anniversary with events also set for September 18. Registrations via office@fairtonschool.nz 

  

ONGOING

  • 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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