About Clocktower Gardens
Clocktower Gardens (sometimes called Baring Square East) is Ashburton’s central open-air civic space, built around the town’s historic clock tower. Located in Ashburton’s CBD, it features paved plazas, landscaped gardens and distinctive “whalebone” concrete arches. The centerpiece is the Ashburton Clock Tower – a working town clock that chimes every quarter hour . This clock was originally built for the old post office in 1904 and later installed in the tower in 1976 to mark 100 years of local government . The Dutch‐white clock tower is set amid grassy lawns, a fountain that activates on the hour, and a statue of pioneer settler John Grigg, making the gardens a charming and historic landmark .
In 2023 Ashburton District Council carried out a $2.45 million upgrade of the Square, creating a new paved plaza and green spaces to complement the adjacent library and civic building . The renovation retained original features like the whale-bone arbors and the clock tower, while adding room for outdoor events . Today Clocktower Gardens is a versatile community venue – an open public park by day and a festival square by night. Its historic charm (moving clock and water features) and new facilities (seating, lighting and flexible layout) make it Ashburton’s signature events space.
Events and Programming
All year round, Clocktower Gardens hosts a variety of local community events. The most notable annual events include the Hakatere Noodle Festival (every September) and the Light Up the Night Christmas celebration. The Noodle Festival is a free multicultural street fair on the lawn, with over 20 food and dessert stalls from cuisines around the world, plus live music and family fun . The Christmas “Light Up the Night” is a free tree‐lighting festival held each November, complete with a giant lit Christmas tree, Santa visit, music performances and food trucks . (For example, about 7,000 people attended Light Up the Night in 2024 to watch Santa and the tree-lighting .)
Other programs at Clocktower Gardens have included cultural celebrations, markets and open-air concerts. For instance, an Ashburton “Long Lunch” event (in 2021) was hosted on-site by local chefs who created gourmet picnic menus – a unique dining experience in the gardens www.ticketfairy.com . The Square has also seen summer music nights, outdoor movie screenings, and parade or festival gatherings (note that since 2025, road closures for moving parades now happen on adjacent roads, encouraging static events at the Square instead ). In short, expect live music (often by local bands or community groups), dance performances and food trucks at Clocktower Gardens. Tickets are usually inexpensive – many events are free or community-sponsored – while special ticketed dinners or festivals might range from modest fees (e.g. ~$80–100 for a gourmet lunch event) to free admission for everyone.
Tickets and Booking
Because Clocktower Gardens is an open public square, many events are free to attend . Street festivals like the Noodle Festival and the Christmas tree lighting require no tickets – simply show up during the advertised hours . For special ticketed events, sales are handled by the event organizers (usually local promoters or charities). There is no fixed box office on-site, so tickets are sold online or through community outlets. For example, the past Ashburton Long Lunch advised participants to “choose your favourite menu and book a ticket,” then arrive between noon and 1 pm to eat in the gardens www.ticketfairy.com . In practice, event organizers will announce ticket availability (often via local social media or the Council’s “What’s On” page). Popular events may sell out, so it’s best to book early when advance notices appear.
In summary, ticketing varies by event : free entry for most public festivals, but paid tickets (purchased in advance) for premium experiences. No general “season pass” or single vendor handles all shows – simply check Ashburton District Council listings or event promotions for how to buy or reserve tickets for each event.
Seating and Layout
Clocktower Gardens is a flexible open-air venue with no fixed seating . It consists of wide paved areas and lawns, so audiences stand or bring portable chairs and blankets. During events, a temporary stage and sound system are set up (often at one end of the square, usually facing the clock tower on East Street). The Square’s plaza layout and moveable street furniture make it easy to reconfigure for each event .
General Admission: For concerts or shows in the gardens, seating is unreserved. Marshals and signage usually direct you to the main lawn or plaza area by the stage. You’re welcome to spread out on the grass or lean against the low concrete arches (“whalebones”). Locals often come early and sit on picnic rugs.Best Views: Position yourself near the front of the open lawn (close to the stage), or along the sides under any available shade. Because the square is flat and open, nearly any spot has a line of sight to the stage. If you want a clear view of the clock and fountain, try the centre of the square (the clock is often lit up for evening shows). Avoid standing too close to the decorative whale-bone arches if the stage is beyond them, as they can partially block the view.Accessibility: The venue is essentially ground-level. There are no grandstands, so wheelchair users and guests with limited mobility can position themselves at the front edge or on the firm paved areas. (Note there are no reserved “VIP” or premium seating zones – seating is communal.)
Since all seating is brought-in, acoustics and sightlines depend entirely on the event setup. Stage technicians typically use professional sound rigs and lighting to cover the whole open area. In short, plan on an informal indoor/outdoor experience: bring cushions or chairs for comfort, and arrive early for best spots.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Clocktower Gardens sits at the heart of Ashburton’s town centre – essentially at Baring Square East, by the junction of East Street, Wills Street and Cameron Street. It faces the new Te Pātaka o kā Tuhituhi (Ashburton Library) building . If you map it, look for the landmark East St. clock tower near 388 East Street.
By Car: Ashburton is easily reached via SH1 from Christchurch (about a 1–1.5 hour drive). There is ample parking nearby but note the town’s time limits. For a full day, the best option is the West Street car park (off Burnett Street, a block north). This council-run lot has about 142 free all-day spaces . Otherwise, metered street parking in the CBD is mostly free for short stays (typically 60–120 minutes maximum) . Many downtown spaces are limited to an hour or two, so watch the parking signs to avoid fines. (From 2022, drivers over 80 can apply for a permit that doubles their time limit , and there are a few reserved blue mobility spots for permit holders .)
By Bus or Shuttle: Ashburton has no local bus service within town . However, several coach operators connect Ashburton to larger cities: for example, daily InterCity buses run to and from Christchurch, Timaru and beyond . If you arrive by bus, you will disembark near the CBD (check the Ashburton stop on East Street or Victoria Street) and then it’s a short 5–10 minute walk to Clocktower Gardens.
Taxis and Rideshare: In Ashburton you can order local taxis (Ashburton Taxis – phone 03-308 2288) or use rideshare apps like Uber into town. Note that rural pickup times may be slower than in big cities, so plan ahead. There is a convenient drop-off at Cameron/East Street in front of the parks. At night, especially after events, taxis and Uber are your best option for getting home.
Inside the Venue
Clocktower Gardens is essentially ground-level, open to the sky, so there are no ticket scanners or turnstiles at the gate. For free events, there’s typically no entry control – people mill in and out. For ticketed events, organizers may set up a simple entry desk. Unless an event is sold-out, you can usually purchase remaining tickets from any official onsite kiosk or line, but it’s safest to buy in advance.
Once inside, expect a casual park atmosphere. In nice weather, families spread picnics on the grass and children play around the fountain. During events, food and drink options usually come to you: food trucks line the edges (recent festivals have featured vendors like Bangkok Wok, Azteca Taco and ice cream stands ). A permanent cafe, One Ninety Nine (corner of Havelock & East St), often stays open later during events . Otherwise, restaurants on East/West Street are minutes away.
Restrooms and Facilities: There are no public toilets built into the square itself. Event organizers typically provide portable toilets when expected crowds are large. In normal times, the nearest restrooms are inside the Te Pātaka (library/civic centre) building on the square, which has accessible facilities. The adjacent Ashburton Event Centre (Wills Street) and nearby shops also have restrooms for paying customers.
Security & Safety: The venue is an open public park, so inside standard hours it is very safe. For large events, event staff and sometimes off-duty police officers may patrol the grounds. Bag checks are not usually performed for family festivals, but always use common sense – keep valuables close. The park is lit at night by street lamps and decorative lights, including illumination on the clock tower (note the clock was even lit purple for the 2023 coronation ). Mobile/cellular reception in Ashburton is strong, so you should have cell service throughout the venue.
Overall, Clocktower Gardens feels more like an outdoor plaza than a closed venue – no lines or gates until specific event times. Come ready to enjoy the weather (bring sun protection in summer www.ticketfairy.com ) and know that basic amenities (coffee, food trucks) are usually nearby or provided.
Nearby Amenities
Clocktower Gardens sits at the crossroads of Ashburton’s main shopping district, so almost everything you need is within short walking distance. Right on the square is One Nineteen cafe (199 Havelock Street) which opens into the evening for event crowds . Along East Street and West Street (the two main strips) you’ll find a variety of eateries, including casual cafes, Asian restaurants, Irish pubs and family diners. For example, just a few blocks away are popular spots like the Elephant Hill bar & grill, James Cook Bar & Eatery, and Lushington’s cozy café. Fast food and convenience shops (takeaway coffee, fish-and-chips, pizzas) are also nearby.
For drinks, there are several bars and pubs within strolling distance. You can grab a beer or wine at places like the Redwood Lounge or local taverns on the main streets. If you prefer wine and boutique brews, look for the nearby bottle shops (e.g. Hanson’s or Bottle-o stores) to take home a drink.
Accommodation: Attendees from out of town can stay in one of Ashburton’s CBD hotels or motels, just a 5-minute walk from Clocktower Gardens. For instance, the Hotel Ashburton is on East Street just around the corner, and the Suites Ashburton apartments are on West Street a block away. There are also motels and B&Bs along Racecourse Road (a short drive). Many of these allow late check-in if you’re attending an event at night – just mention your arrival time.
Other Tips: Arrive early to grab any spot on the grass or benches. Shopping in the district is lively during event days: boutique stores, art galleries and the Ashburton Art Gallery are just a few blocks away if you come early or stay late. After dark, eventgoers often head into nearby cafes or bars (where places like One Nineteen and James Cook Bar remain open through the evening ). Buses and trains expressly don’t serve the venue directly, so taxis or driving are the norm later at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Clocktower Gardens is special because it blends Ashburton’s heritage with a modern public gathering space. The iconic clock tower – a 1976 plaque by Warren and Mahoney – anchors the site . Inside the gardens, you can literally see and hear history: every hour the hidden fountain springs to life in sync with the chiming clock, and you can even stroll in and peer at the clock’s inner workings as others have noted . This old‐meets-new charm (water feature, gardens and big sky) makes it a peaceful spot during the day for a picnic or coffee , yet at night it turns into the community’s favorite event plaza.
Culturally, Clocktower Gardens has become Ashburton’s focal point for celebrations. Its open design and central location have made it the obvious place for key town events – from the huge crowds at the annual Christmas Light-Up to the lively food festivals in spring. The Council itself describes it as a “pleasant spot where people can meet or take lunch and it will be ideal for big and small events” . In fact, it hosted the Hakatere Noodle Festival and Christmas gala with great success, proving popular with all ages and even prompting residents to fill the square for major events . Are there other venues like it in Mid Canterbury? Not many – the working town clock, fountain displays and whale-bone arches make Clocktower Gardens uniquely photogenic and beloved.
Artists and bands enjoy performing here for the friendly local atmosphere. Nearby businesses and media partners (like the Ashburton Courier and More FM) often sponsor events, so the scene has a fun “homegrown” feel. Locals love coming year after year: as one reviewer said, the gardens are a “lovely peaceful spot to rest on a busy day” and the hourly fountain is a delight . This mix of community spirit, sunny outdoor space and a dash of history is exactly why both performers and audiences return. In short, Clocktower Gardens is more than just a park – it’s the heart of Ashburton’s culture and celebrations.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Clocktower Gardens was designed as a flat, open space, so it is generally wheelchair and stroller-friendly. All paths through the plaza are paved and level. Guests using mobility aids can position themselves at the front of the crowd for best access. The square abuts the library/civic building which has ramp access and accessible restrooms. In town, there are marked blue mobility parking spaces nearby (display a mobility permit) . Note that ordinary 1–2 hour parking limits do not apply in mobility spaces or to special “over-80” permit holders, who may park longer .
What to Bring: Because events here are outdoors, prepare for the elements. In summer, bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat (the sun can be intense on the open grass) www.ticketfairy.com . In spring or autumn, nights can be cool, so pack a jacket or blanket. Seating is unreserved – you might consider folding camp chairs or picnic rugs to sit on. Small umbrellas or rain ponchos are wise if rain is forecast, though most large events will go ahead unless weather is extreme. Also bring cash or card if you plan to buy food or drinks from vendors (some trucks may not take electronic payments).
Food & Drink Policy: There is no permanent concession stand, but outside food and drink are allowed. Many visitors pack picnics into the park on picnic days, or purchase from food trucks during festivals. Alcohol laws apply – public drinking is generally not allowed unless the event has a liquor licence. For big events with alcohol (e.g. a late-night festival), only licensed bars and vendor stations serve drinks. Outside coolers or alcoholic beverages are not permitted, following normal public park rules.
Smoking: Ashburton District Council maintains a smokefree policy for most events and youth areas . During Council-sponsored festivals in the gardens, smoking (including e-cigarettes) is generally prohibited on the main event grounds. Smoking is allowed only in unofficial peripheral areas or designated smoking zones, if any. In practice, you will rarely see people smoking right in the performance zone during events.
Photography & Filming: By default you can take photos and video – dancers and musicians expect audience filming on phones. Just be polite: flash or tripods may be inconsistent, and during some shows (e.g. large concerts or private hires) organizers might announce a flash ban. Keep any professional setups (tripods, drones) to the edges or check with event staff first.
Restrictions and Tips: Avoid large backpacks or prohibited items like glass bottles when attending crowded events. Lockers and cloakrooms are not provided, so carry minimal gear. For lost items or help, look for a clearly marked information tent or talk to an event volunteer. If it rains, small pop-up umbrellas are fine for yourself, but stages will usually remain outdoors (there is no covered amphitheater). Latecomers: once a show has started, late seating may be restricted for safety, so arrive a bit early to get in smoothly.
Local Customs: Ashburton is a friendly rural town – families and children are common at events. Feel free to bring kids (there are often kid zones or activities during family events). Dress is casual. Typical audiences wear jeans, t-shirts or summer dresses. There is no formal dress code.
Special Notices: Occasionally, areas of the park may temporarily close for maintenance or setup. Signs will alert the public well in advance. Always follow any guidance from security or council staff – for example, council recently decided not to allow heavy equipment (like fixed tents) to block East Street during business hours, so most big setups happen on weekends or after shops close . Finally, remember that this is a public space – walkers, dogs on leash, and cyclists (at off-peak times) also use the square. Please share the space respectfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Clocktower Gardens located in Ashburton?
Clocktower Gardens is in central Ashburton on Baring Square East, at the corner of East, Wills and Cameron streets. It’s right in front of the new Te Pātaka o kā Tuhituhi library and beside the public clock tower on East Street. The general address to use is “Baring Square East, Ashburton 7700”.
How do I get to Clocktower Gardens without a car?
Ashburton has no local buses. You can arrive by long-distance coach (InterCity buses regularly connect Ashburton to Christchurch and other cities) and then walk a few minutes from the town centre. Once in Ashburton, the gardens are in the heart of town, so taxi or rideshare (Uber) is the usual way to reach the Square if coming from farther away. Taxis can be booked locally (Ashburton Taxis, phone 03-308-2288).
Is parking available at Clocktower Gardens, and is it free?
Yes – there is lots of free parking nearby. The largest fully free lot is the West Street car park (off Burnett Street), which has over 140 all-day free spaces . Around the square itself, street parking is free but time-limited (usually 1–2 hours) . Many transactions are short-term by design; however, Council offers free extended-parking permits for seniors (over-80) and designates mobility spots for disabled permit holders . In practice, park far enough to obey the posted limits or use the West Street lot for all-day events.
What is the seating arrangement at Clocktower Gardens?
Clocktower Gardens has no fixed seating . It’s an open lawn and plaza. For events, attendees simply stand or sit on the grass or portable chairs. There are moveable benches (“street furniture”) that staff can rearrange for each event . Best views are generally near the front of the main lawn (close to the temporary stage) or against the historic whalebone archways. No seats are assigned, so it’s first-come, first-serve – bring your own chairs or a picnic blanket if you want guaranteed comfort.
Are Clocktower Gardens events ticketed, and where can I buy tickets?
Most events at Clocktower Gardens are free to attend, so no ticket is needed. Annual festivals like the Hakatere Noodle Festival and the Christmas tree lighting are open-entry . When events do require tickets (for example, special dinners or concerts held in the park), tickets are sold by the event organizers – typically online or via community ticket outlets. There’s no box office on-site. When in doubt, watch Ashburton District Council’s “What’s On” page or local event listings for an official link to buy tickets ahead of time.
What are the venue rules (e.g. food, alcohol, and smoking) at Clocktower Gardens?
Clocktower Gardens is a public park, so you may bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. Alcohol is not allowed unless you are in a licensed area (event organizers will limit alcohol to vendors in fenced-off zones, if at all). Smoking (including vaping) is generally discouraged at family events; council festivals usually promote a smokefree environment . As always in open parks, avoid glass containers. Photography and small personal umbrellas are fine. No large bags or professional camera equipment without permission. Pets on leash are normally allowed in the park, but they must stay out of any fenced event areas and behave calmly.
Are there restrooms, food or drink available at Clocktower Gardens?
There are no permanent public toilets on the grass. For big events, organizers bring portable toilets. Otherwise, the closest restrooms are inside the adjacent library/civic building (Te Pātaka o kā Tuhituhi). Food and drink: the Square itself has no fixed concession stand, but during events many food trucks set up around the edges (offering snacks, meals and drinks). A local cafe, One Nineteen, sits on the corner and often opens later when events run into the evening . Otherwise, you can grab a meal or coffee at any of the cafes and restaurants that line the nearby East and West Streets before or after the event.
Is Clocktower Gardens wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Clocktower Gardens is flat and accessible. There are no stairs to negotiate – all paths through the plaza are paved. Wheelchair users can easily roll anywhere in the park. (For performances, you might position a wheelchair at the front of the viewing area.) During events, priority viewing areas can be arranged if needed. The nearby library building, which backs on the square, has ramps and accessible restrooms, and blue mobility parking spaces are just around the corner . In summary, mobility-impaired guests typically find the grounds very friendly.
What should I bring when visiting Clocktower Gardens?
Dress for the weather. In daytime events, sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is wise, as the square has open sun exposure www.ticketfairy.com . You may want a jacket or blanket for cool nights. Bring seating if you want (folding chairs or a picnic rug) since there is no fixed seating. Cash and cards can be useful for food trucks. Also pack reusable water bottles (and snacks if you’ll need them). Finally, a small bag with your essentials (phone, keys) and a portable charger can help – cell coverage is good at the gardens.
What is the capacity of Clocktower Gardens?
As a public square, there is no official “ticketed” capacity. In practice, Clocktower Gardens can hold up to several thousand people. For example, about 7,000 people attended the Christmas tree-lighting event in 2024 . The open lawn easily accommodates large crowds standing. Organizers consider guest safety and may limit attendance for very large events, but for most festivals the space is filled with anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand people.
Are there age restrictions or a dress code for events at Clocktower Gardens?
Generally there is no dress code – people dress casually for outdoor weather. Events are family-friendly; children and infants are welcome at all-age gatherings. (You will often see families on picnic blankets during day events.) Age restrictions only apply if a particular event requires them: for instance, the “Long Lunch” issued only adult tickets. Otherwise, plan for a relaxed atmosphere – just wear comfortable clothes and appropriate outerwear for the night’s conditions.
Can I bring alcohol or glass bottles into Clocktower Gardens?
No – outside alcohol is not permitted in Clocktower Gardens. As with most public parks, open liquor is banned. During licensed events, any alcohol consumption will be confined to controlled vendor booths (for example, a wine concession served through a fenced area). Glass bottles are discouraged due to breakage hazard. If you want a drink, use the event’s licensed bar or buy cans/bottles inside the fair (if available).
Are dogs allowed in Clocktower Gardens?
Dogs are generally allowed on leash in the park area of Clocktower Gardens when there is no special event. You will often see people walking pets in the early morning or on weekday afternoons. During large events, organizers may request that dogs stay outside the main gathering area (for safety and comfort of all guests). Always clean up after your pet. Service animals accompanying disabled visitors are allowed at any time.
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
Clocktower Gardens is outdoors, so light rain will not stop a festival – attendees simply bring rain gear. Organizers usually plan for typical spring/summer showers by running events rain-or-shine (with stage coverings). However, severe weather (high winds, thunderstorms) could lead to a delay or cancellation for safety. Always check the event’s official communication (website or social media) on the day of a show. If in doubt, dress in layers: umbrella, poncho or waterproof jackets are recommended when showers are forecast.
Can I access the inside of the clock tower or see it operate?
The clock tower is locked to the public, so you cannot go inside to the clocks’ gears. However, visitors enjoy viewing it from the outside. The large glass clock faces and hourly fountain displays are visible at any time. During events or on special tours (if ever offered by the Museum), limited “insider” viewing might be arranged, but normally the tower itself is just an exterior attraction.
Why is the venue called “Clocktower Gardens”?
The name comes from Ashburton’s prominent clock tower, which stands in the center of this park and was the original focal point of the site. The tower has granite steps and is surrounded by landscaped gardens and water features. In effect, the open area around the clock tower is a public garden, hence the colloquial name “Clocktower Gardens.” It’s like saying “the gardens by the clock tower.”
Is Clocktower Gardens open every day, and what are the usual hours?
Yes. Clocktower Gardens is an outdoor public space, so it is generally open 24/7 to the public (no gates or closing time). You can visit anytime during daylight or even at night. Of course, events will have specific hours (for instance, a festival might run 3 pm–9 pm). Outside of events, the square is free for walks, relaxing or photos (the clock chimes on the hour all day).
Are food and drinks sold at Clocktower Gardens events?
Yes – though there’s no permanent cafe onsite, most large events feature plenty of food stalls. For festivals like the Noodle Festival or Christmas Night, you’ll find mobile vendors around the edge selling everything from noodles to tacos to sweets . You may also see coffee carts or local charity sausage sizzles. Water stations may be provided by organizers or volunteers for public events. If nothing else, just a short walk into the nearby cafes and shops will get you a meal or drink.
How often do events happen at Clocktower Gardens?
Events are organized by the community and Council, so the frequency can vary. Major annual events (like the Noodle Festival and Christmas tree lighting) happen every year around the same season. In addition, expect occasional special events in summer – perhaps a concert or market every few months. The easiest way to know what’s on is to check the Ashburton District Council “What’s On” or the local newspaper calendar. Generally, many events cluster in spring and early summer (September–December) and taper off in winter due to weather.
