It might seem like we are still in the throes of Winter, but Spring is only a month away and before you know it we will be in the run up to Christmas!
So we thought it was a good time to draw your attention to some of the "do not miss" events coming up on the calendar for our beautiful part of the South Island.
Christmas Fetes have become increasingly popular over the last few years triggered by the massively successful Christmas Country Fete held in North Canterbury.
This year for the first time, Hanmer Springs has its very own Fete event, held in the grounds of the former Queen Mary Hospital - the perfect venue for a late spring/early summer event.
We have expanded on the events with dates and details below so you can add them to your calendars and make sure you don't miss out. As you will see below, many of these events happen at the end of October/first week of November, so plan ahead and get your accommodation booked with us to make sure you don't miss out! Our new apartments will be completed, so booking one of those (or any of our other options) would make the perfect weekend away from home. (Plus of course, a few sessions in our hot tubs!)
Sculpture North Canterbury Preview Opening, Pegasus Bay Winery, Friday October 18, 2019
Art in a Garden is proud to present Sculpture North Canterbury. The six week outdoor exhibition is an exciting collection of sculpture from 18 practising artists across New Zealand, including Hannah Kidd, Claire Sadler and Raymond Herber.
To celebrate the launch, we would love for you to attend our opening party on Friday 18 October 2019 from 5.30-7.30pm. This will allow passionate art lovers the first opportunity to view the exhibit of installations within the stunning grounds of Pegasus Bay Winery. By joining us at the opening, you will also have the exclusive rights to view some additional works only on view for the opening night, including paintings, glass objects and ceramic domestic ware. There will also be complimentary canapes from the Pegasus Bay Kitchen, live music and performance art. Tickets can be purchased online here. $44.00 per person.
The Sculpture North Canterbury exhibition runs from the 18th October – 8th December from 10am-5pm, 7 days.
Hanmer Springs Fete, Queen Mary Hospital Grounds, Hanmer Friday November 1, 2019
Hanmer Springs Fete is set to become North Canterbury's finest shopping event. 2019 marks its first year and you are welcome to join us in the heart or North Canterbury to enjoy the stunning historic Queen Mary Hospital grounds as you shop with over 100 high quality stalls from across New Zealand.
Fete organisers aim to bring you the finest selection of creators to ensure a day of indulgence for you and your friends. Wander beneath the stunning trees while listening to live music and enjoying the friendly and vibrant atmosphere of this exclusive Christmas shopping event. With an amazing array of products to choose from, you won't be able to resist taking something home!
Mark the date in your calendar now and make a weekend of it with friends and family. Hanmer Springs has plenty to offer to take right through the weekend, kicked off with this fabulous day of shopping, food and indulgence.
Christmas Country Fete, Lyddington Farm Oxford, Thursday October 31, 2019
This year the popular Christmas Country Fete has a new venue - Lyddington Farm, 891 Mount Thomas Road, Fernside.
Gate entry prices are $25 cash or Eft-pos on the day - so save money and buy online for $22.80.
Join thousands of people from around New Zealand, in attending the country's biggest and most popular Fête. The day features over 150 stalls, bursting with hundreds of gift ideas, along with fresh food and wine. Get your Christmas shopping underway, while enjoying the live entertainment and demonstrations.
Just 45 minutes drive from Christchurch, Lyddington Farm provides a unique shopping experience with beautiful views and gardens to explore. You can also choose from a wide range of food and beverages - check out the vendors who will be onsite with their goods.
General Admission includes:
- Gate admission fee to The Fete
- Free car parking
- Free entry to the Demonstrator presentations
- Access to over 150 hand-picked stalls
- Live music throughout the day from The Starlets
Children under 15 years free.
Hurunui Garden Festival 2019, November 1-3, 2019
From Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd November you can visit gorgeous private gardens from Amberley to Gore Bay, Hawarden to Hanmer Springs, many within easy reach of Hanmer Springs.
There’s also a programme of garden events to educate, entertain and inspire you. While you’re enjoying the gardens and warm country hospitality, you can also sample the wineries, cafes, and the natural attractions that make Hurunui District such a great place to visit.
All the gardens are open daily from 9am to 5pm on Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd November 2019. You can meet the garden owners and learn how they’ve created their gorgeous gardens.
It costs adults $10 to visit each garden, payable on the day as you enter the garden. Children accompanied by an adult may enter for free. Please have cash with you, as the gardens cannot process electronic payments. Online pre-purchase ticket sales are available here.
There’s so much to experience and enjoy at the Garden Festival. See the map below for the locations and visit the Hurunui Garden Festival website for more details of each property and the tours available.
