District Life

15/06/2026

Figuring Out Waste ♻️

Waimate now has ten shops trading secondhand goods, plus the weekly Waimate Community Market.

These businesses are doing a great job keeping good things out of landfill.

Having one or two second-hand stores is great for a small town. Having this many creates a destination.

Less waste and a big economic impact as people head here to shop.

14/06/2026

A full house upstairs at The Waimate Kitchen & Bar this morning for the annual Pink Ribbon Breakfast.

14/06/2026

Acclaimed local artist Michael Bajko’s exhibition "Terra Dinornis – Celebrating Our Moa" officially opened today at the Waimate Art Gallery.

Moa are a significant part of Waimate’s story, with the district home to the largest find of moa bones ever discovered.

Michael said the idea for the exhibition came after realising one of his granddaughters knew everything about Tyrannosaurus rex, prompting the question: “But what about Terra Dinornis?”

The exhibition puts the spotlight back on these big birds, educates and asks questions about where the bones belong.

Plus, you get to see the stunning local photography that Michael is known for too.

It runs throughout June and July, with the gallery open Thursday to Sunday, 11am – 3pm.

Well worth popping in for a look.

13/06/2026

It's Worldwide Knit in Public Day for those who didn't know.

13/06/2026

I've spent the morning yarning to this lovely local.

Seen here modelling the 1974 Commonwealth Games hostess uniform. She had six children by this stage.

I've only scratched the surface on 80 odd years lived to the fullest. An absolutely fabulous human.

Stay tuned for more.

11/06/2026

A house sells in Waimate about every two days, not every property is advertised online, and people are still moving here in significant numbers.

Those were just some of the insights shared at Tuesday night's property investment seminar, hosted by Dionne from Jules & Dionne Red Hot Real Estate, and the team at Loan Market Agile Timaru.

If you couldn't make it along, we've rounded up the key takeaways from the evening in our latest story.

Plenty of practical tips were shared at a free property seminar on Tuesday night. The message was clear - Waimate's property market remains active, supported by a steady stream of people choosing to make the district home. Read on for some of the key takeaways from the event.

10/06/2026

Could your farm already be an agritourism business?

In our latest story we talk to Agritourism NZ founder and CE Marijke Dunselman.

We explore the opportunities, where the market is heading, different business models and, importantly, why standard farm insurance may not be enough when visitors come through the gate.

Latest story, now live.

According to Agritourism NZ founder and chief executive Marijke Dunselman, many farmers already have what they need for an agritourism business sitting right under their noses. It could simply be looking at what is already there through a different lens.

05/06/2026

Don't miss out on this free property event - register online today.

The seminar will cover what’s happening in the Waimate property market, finance tips, bank requirements, using equity, the home-buying process and common mistakes buyers should avoid.

Attendees will also get insight into how mortgage brokers work on behalf of buyers - comparing lenders, helping structure loans and finding lending options suited to different situations.

The seminar will be held upstairs at The Waimate Kitchen & Bar, on Tuesday 9 June from 6pm to 7pm, with a complimentary drink on arrival.

Join us for local tips, insights & smart strategies. Whether you're just getting started or want to grow your property portfolio.

04/06/2026

Another great example of locals seeing an opportunity and making it happen.

A permanent orienteering course officially opens at Knottingley Park and Arboretum on Saturday.

Led by the good folk at Rotary Club of Waimate, it's been designed by professionals and supported by Waimate District Council, local businesses and volunteers.

Rotarian Matt Simonsen says one of the biggest benefits is helping people of all ages develop navigation skills they can use in the outdoors.

Find out more in the latest story.

A new permanent orienteering course officially opens at Knottingley Park and Arboretum on Saturday, adding another free outdoor activity for locals and visitors to enjoy. Led by The Rotary Club of Waimate, the project has been developed with support from Waimate District Council, local businesses,

02/06/2026

Sneak peek.

Could your farm already be an agritourism business?

Visitors are increasingly looking for authentic rural experiences, and there are more ways to get involved than you might think.

We caught up with Agritourism NZ founder Marijke Dunselman to talk options, opportunities, business models, insurance and more.

Coming soon on District Life.