From major sporting events to local favourites, Selwyn’s calendar is packed with reasons to get out and about year-round.
Selwyn serves up events for every season
There’s always something happening in Selwyn. With big name sporting competitions, community festivals, live music and local markets all happening in the region, the annual events calendar is as dynamic and varied as the community itself.
Here are a few local favourites we think are worth keeping an eye on.
- Selwyn Sounds (March)
Featuring live music, food trucks and a laidback festival atmosphere, Selwyn Sounds has quickly become a summer favourite. Bring a picnic rug, round up a few friends and settle in for an afternoon of Kiwi music in the sun.
- Hororata Glow Festival (May)
Part country fair, part balloon spectacular. The Hororata Glow Festival lights up the night sky with glowing hot air balloons, live entertainment, market stalls and plenty of food trucks. Rug up warm, fill up the thermos and make a night of it.
- Urban Estates Selwyn Marathon (May/June)
One of Canterbury’s biggest running events, the Urban Estates Selwyn Marathon attracts everyone from serious runners to first-timers giving the 10km a crack. A great atmosphere, strong community support and (thankfully) flat courses make it a standout on the local calendar.
- Matariki celebrations (June)
Celebrated across the district each winter, Matariki events bring communities together through storytelling, performances, food and light displays. Te Ara Ātea in Rolleston has become a local focal point, with family-friendly events that make life-long memories.
- Ellesmere A&P Show (October)
A proper rural Canterbury day out. Held in Leeston each spring, the Ellesmere A&P Show combines livestock competitions, machinery displays, food stalls, rides and classic small-town charm. Don’t forget your gumboots!
- Hororata Highland Games (November)
Where else can you watch caber tossing, pipe bands and highland dancing all in one place? The Hororata Highland Games have become one of the district’s most unique annual events, drawing visitors from all around New Zealand.
- Selwyn Motor Fest (November)
If you’ve got even a passing interest in cars, bikes or anything with an engine, this one’s worth a look. Held in Rolleston, Selwyn Motor Fest brings together hundreds of classic vehicles alongside food vendors, entertainment and family activities.
- Rolleston Christmas in the Park (December)
A local tradition to round out the year. Revel in the spirit of the season with live music, food vendors, great vibes and of course, the jolly man in red himself.
One of the best things about living in Rolleston is that there’s always something to look forward to. And most of the time, it’s just a short drive down the road.
