Beer, wine and BBQ events fill the South's summer lineup
Hey neighbours,
Summer in the South Island is in full flow as upcoming events are welcomed by improving weather.
Ōtautahi Smoke, the first festival of its kind in the South Island, promises a mix of barbecue food from the best grill operators in the country, music from Kiwi favourites, and drinks. It’s the newest of a range of beer, wine and food events to look forward to in the coming months.
The South Island Wine and Food festival, North Canterbury wine and food festival, Christchurch Vegan Expo and the Great Kiwi Beer festival form a lineup of events sure to attract eager foodies, drink connoisseurs and curious punters to the Garden City.
Click 'Read more' below for the full story.
Poll: Canterbury is thriving on paper... but are you seeing evidence of Canterbury's improving economy?
As reported in the Press, Reserve Bank Governor Anna Breman recently gave a shout-out to our region, calling Canterbury a "stand-out" for how we recover from tough times. With tech firms growing and exporters investing, the business side of things is looking bright!
👉 But we know that "business growth" doesn't always mean the weekly shop gets any cheaper. While the city expands, many families feel like they’re just trying to keep their heads above water.
We want to know: With the business buzz of 2026, do you feel like things are finally looking up for your household, or does it still feel like a climb?
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0% Yes
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0% No
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100% In some areas ...
🧩😏 Riddle me this, Neighbours…
I am an odd number. Take away a letter and I become even. What number am I?
Do you think you know the answer?
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Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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