About 1191 Courtenay Road
1191 Courtenay Road in Kirwee is a large rural property – about 80 hectares – used as the site of the South Island Agricultural Field Days (SIAFD). This biennial agricultural expo, established in 1951, is Canterbury’s largest farming event (www.siafd.co.nz). Open fields and temporary structures replace any formal building; the venue essentially blends modern expo facilities with farmland scenery. Surrounded by rolling paddocks under the Southern Alps, it offers sweeping mountain views that emphasise its rural setting (www.rnz.co.nz). The layout is deliberately open-air: you’ll find exhibitor marquees, equipment demonstrations areas, livestock trials, a kids’ zone and food stalls set out across the paddock. With minimal permanent architecture, the venue’s character comes from its natural landscape and farm-style infrastructure.
This site matters because it represents a long tradition in New Zealand’s farming history. The Field Days have been held here for decades and celebrated their 70th anniversary in 2021 (www.siafd.co.nz). Organisers describe it as a chance to “celebrate the industry that has been the backbone of New Zealand’s economy” (www.siafd.co.nz). In practice, 1191 Courtenay Road becomes a temporary village – with planting, livestock displays and machines in motion – attracting farmers, families and businesses from across the South Island. The scale of the site (80ha of terrain) can accommodate hundreds of machinery plots and thousands of visitors, making it more like an open-air festival than a typical conference hall.
Events and Programming
The main event at this venue is the South Island Agricultural Field Days (SIAFD), a three-day expo focused on farming technology, equipment and rural lifestyle. This has been held every two years (odd years) in late summer/autumn (e.g. 26–28 March 2025 (www.siafd.co.nz)). Each event runs from about 8am to 5pm on consecutive weekdays (Wednesday through Friday). The programming is very agricultural: you’ll walk among displays of the latest tractors, harvesters, tractors, farm drones, fencing gear and robotics. Demonstrations are a key feature – for example, combines, implements and tractors are run ‘in action’ so farmers can compare brands (www.rnz.co.nz) (www.siafd.co.nz). In 2025 around 600 exhibitors set up on about 1,000 marked sites (www.rnz.co.nz), so there’s everything from big machinery to boutique agritech gadgets. Shopping is part of the day: local makers and national companies sell tools, clothing, farm supplies, food and gifts under the marquees.
Aside from the core equipment expo, SIAFD programs many spectacles. There is a dedicated “Kids Zone” at the centre of the site, free for all under-16 visitors (www.siafd.co.nz). Live competitions bring excitement: at recent shows this has included the NZ Cowboy Challenge (horse obstacle course sponsored by the NZ Cowboy Challenge Association) (www.siafd.co.nz), National Fencing Championships (teams building stock fences) (www.siafd.co.nz), and an Ag Challenge for secondary school students. In 2021 for example, World Cup–winning All Black Sam Whitelock made an appearance, highlighting how even prominent Kiwi personalities get involved in the farming community events (www.siafd.co.nz). In general, the event is very family-friendly: children’s activities, farm animal displays and novelty competitions (e.g. merino sheep shows or dog trials) often run in the background.
Each year’s show typically features over 20 award categories (innovation, breeding, crops, etc.) where new products and ideas are judged. Demonstrations like the “Top Tractor Shootout” or drone spraying trials often draw crowds. Politicians and industry leaders also attend, using the occasion for speeches and press; for example, the 2025 event drew MPs and ministers who mingled with farmers (www.rnz.co.nz) (www.rnz.co.nz). Overall, if you visit 1191 Courtenay Road, expect a wide range of farm-centric activities: tractor parades, product launches, R&D showcases and casual rural entertainment all day long.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at 1191 Courtenay Road (like the SIAFD Field Days) are sold primarily online. The official ticketing is handled via the SIAFD website (through the Flicket service). For the 2025 show, advance e-tickets were $20 per adult (plus booking fees) (www.siafd.co.nz), with the same price regardless of which day you attend. At the gate you can also buy tickets on event days; gate sales are $25 per person (cash or card) (www.siafd.co.nz). All visitors aged 16 and up need a ticket – children under 16 enter free, but even they must register for a (free) child pass (www.siafd.co.nz). It’s recommended to buy tickets early online (they often run early-bird promotions) so you can skip queues (www.siafd.co.nz). A mobile e-ticket on your phone is all that’s needed – it will be scanned on arrival (www.siafd.co.nz).
You do not need to print your ticket; staff scan it directly from your device (www.siafd.co.nz). On the day, gates open shortly before 8 am (check the official program or email for exact opening times) and run until about 5 pm. Tickets are generally non-refundable. If you need to leave and return later in the day, re-entry is allowed: just get your hand or ticket stamped at the gate when you go out, so you can come back through the same entrance (www.siafd.co.nz). If any special events or talks are scheduled, details will be announced on the site’s program. Because this is a rural expo, there are no reserved seating tiers or VIP boxes – all access is general admission once you have your ticket.
Seating and Layout
The venue is essentially a large open field, so don’t expect fixed seating. There are no theatre-style rows or grandstands – spectators simply stand or sit on the grass. Demonstration areas (e.g. tractor test tracks) may have a low fence or embankment where people cluster to watch. For exhibits and static displays, visitors roam freely between marquees. You are welcome to bring low folding stools, cushions or camping chairs to various spots (many people do bring chairs for comfort). In dry weather you can sit on the grass; in wet conditions it’s wise to bring a tarp or waterproof blanket. Because the layout is flat and open, front-row standing spots are first come, but the site is designed so most angles have good visibility of the main arenas. Some exhibitors may set up small covered areas or seating nearby, but generally note that this is an outdoor fair.
VIP or reserved seating areas are not a feature at 1191 Courtenay Road. There is no raised stage area for concerts – performances (if any) happen at ground level. The best views for tractor and machinery demos are near the fenced demo tracks; organisers often place signs or information booths to direct crowds. If you want to listen to any announcers or commentary, speakers are usually placed near those demo areas. One practical tip: stand or place chairs on slightly higher ground (if available) to see over the crowd when watching big demos. Away from demo zones, most pedestrian paths are level. Because the site can get muddy (especially after rain (www.odt.co.nz)), bring sturdy shoes or gumboots to keep steadier footing.
Getting There and Parking
1191 Courtenay Road is located just east of Kirwee on State Highway 73, about 30–40 km west of central Christchurch. Driving is by far the easiest way to reach it. If you’re coming from Christchurch, take SH73 west past Darfield and it’s signed off at Aylesbury Road. The event organizers advise approaching from the south on SH73 and following the event signage at Aylesbury/Bealey Roads, which leads into dedicated left-turn lanes for two large on-site car parks (www.siafd.co.nz). There is ample parking on the farm fields near the venue, and parking is included with your visit at no extra charge. Because of the popularity of the show, organisers strongly encourage carpooling to reduce traffic jams (www.siafd.co.nz). Expect some delays on SH73 during peak arrival (usually 7–9 am) and departure times (4–5 pm); just follow the traffic warden instructions. Once parked, it’s typically a short walk into the main event area on a wide farm road or path.
For public transit, options are limited. On weekdays Metro Christchurch Route 86 runs between Darfield, Kirwee and Christchurch (morning trips towards town, afternoon returns) (www.metroinfo.co.nz) (www.metroinfo.co.nz). However this service does not run on weekends or public holidays (www.metroinfo.co.nz), so it is only useful if the Field Days fall on a weekday. If you use this bus, the Kirwee stop is still a few kilometres from 1191 Courtenay – you would need a taxi or bike from the township. In practice most visitors drive, as the venue is off the main bus loop. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are possible: have the driver follow State Highway 73 to the Aylesbury turn and stop at the parking entrance. (Boarding an Uber at the site could be tricky late in the afternoon, so pre-book if needed.)
Accessible parking is usually available near the entrance gates for those with mobility needs. Drop-off areas are also set up at the main entry for kitted vehicles or coaches. Since heavy traffic is expected on event days, allow extra time in your travel plan. If arriving on a motorcycle or bicycle, there are unofficial parking areas near the main gate – ask staff for advice. The address 1191 Courtenay Road, Kirwee can be entered into your GPS or maps app for precise directions.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, entry staff will scan your ticket barcode from your phone or printout (www.siafd.co.nz). After entering, you’ll be in an open paddock with various zones. The overall atmosphere is that of a large country show mixed with a trade fair – expect the smells of grilling meat from food stalls, soft machinery noises, and lots of chatter. The surfaces underfoot are mostly grass and gravel. Main attractions (demo rings, competition arenas) often have nearby trackside lines or fences where the crowd gathers to watch. Security is friendly but vigilant; staff wear identifiable vests and you’ll see stewards directing people at busy intersections. There is no central enclosure or roof, so all gathering is outdoors or under temporary shelters.
Food and drink vendors are scattered throughout. There will be coffee carts, ice-cream stands and typical festival food trucks (selling pies, burgers, sushi, fried doughnuts, etc.). Often local cheesemakers, bakers or breweries set up stalls. On-site you will likely find a beer or wine tent if the event is licensed, but even if not, soda and snacks are readily available. Most vendors accept card and cash; however, note that at the main entry gates the event prefers contactless payment (PayWave, etc.) for ticket sales (www.siafd.co.nz). If you prefer cash, one gate usually handles it, but it’s safest to have a card on you or visit a nearby ATM before coming. There is no central restaurant or indoor café – everything is in pop-up form.
Portable toilet blocks are placed at convenient points (near food areas and main exhibits). A small first-aid tent is typically set up near the entrance or administration trailer for any health issues. There is usually a lost-children or information booth by the main entrance. You won’t find cloakrooms or lockers, so it’s best to carry only what you need. Baby changing facilities or accessible toilets may be available (often located next to the marked restrooms) – just ask an on-site volunteer or locate the restroom map. Charging stations or Wi-Fi are generally not offered (mobile phone coverage can be spotty in heavy crowds), so come prepared.
Nearby Amenities
Kirwee itself is a very small rural village. Within a few minutes’ drive of 1191 Courtenay Road you’ll find a couple of basic shops and cafes. Notably, the Thirsty Acres (formerly Kirwee Pantry) on High Street is a combined restaurant, bottle store and deli that’s popular with locals – it serves pub fare (steaks, burgers, pizzas) and has a grocery section of local produce. There is also a Four Square grocery store and petrol station in Darfield (the next town about 8 km south on SH73) for any supplies. A handful of farm stores and lifestyle shops dot the highway near Kirwee, but no major malls or supermarkets are in Kirwee village itself.
For dining and shopping beyond the immediate area, many visitors plan to stop in nearby towns. Darfield (10 min south) has more eateries (cafés, bakery, Chinese takeout, etc.), service stations and banks. Rolleston (20 km east) or Greendale (off SH1) have supermarkets and chain services. If you arrive the night before or stay after, the closest hotels and motels are in Darfield or Rolleston – there are several mid-range motels, a caravan park and rural B&Bs in the region. (Some choose to stay in Christchurch or west Christchurch suburbs and commute in.)
When planning your visit, note that cellphone signal in this area can be inconsistent. If you need phone service, roll out of the parking lot towards Kirwee township or drive a short way to the hills for better reception. The nearest pharmacy and medical centre are in Darfield. Drinking water fountains are limited at the venue, so it’s wise to bring personal water bottles (refillable jugs are often available at public taps near rest areas). In short, plan any major shopping, meals or lodging around Darfield or Rolleston; on the day of the event, the venue itself only offers picnic-style dining.
What Makes This Venue Special
1191 Courtenay Road stands out because it transforms ordinary farmland into a giant tech-and-trade showcase. The contrast is striking: one moment you’re among pasture and pine shelter belts, the next you’re surrounded by massive harvesters and digital displays. The venue’s uniqueness comes from marrying high-tech agriculture with a classic country fair atmosphere. It allows ordinary people to see the working machinery up close – for example, RNZ reporters noted that combines and tractors were demonstrated live under the Southern Alps backdrop (www.rnz.co.nz), giving attendees both a hands-on learning experience and a photo-perfect rural setting.
Another special aspect is the local community spirit. This site is run almost entirely by volunteers from Kirwee and neighbouring towns. You’ll see stands staffed by local tractor clubs or even students – in 2025, dozens of local school and community groups (Darefield High, Kirwee Scouts, etc.) helped staff the event (www.siafd.co.nz). That means the mood is friendly and communal. Longtime attendees also point out that each show builds on the legacy of earlier years – for example, the 2021 event was marked as the 70th Field Days, and the organisers touted it as a celebration of “our industry that has been the backbone of New Zealand” (www.siafd.co.nz). There are literally generations of farmers who grew up coming here, which gives 1191 Courtenay Road a kind of historic status in Kiwi farm culture.
Then there is what happens on the grounds every show: unique competitions and displays you won’t see at city venues. SIAFD hosts national-level agricultural contests (like New Zealand fencing or rodeo challenges (www.siafd.co.nz)) that bring champion teams far off the beaten path into rural Kirwee. High-profile guests also drop in: in recent years MPs and even sports stars have given this tiny town a moment in the national spotlight (www.siafd.co.nz) (www.rnz.co.nz). Finally, the sheer scale makes it special – for three days the farmyard bursts into life with thousands of people, as noted by media who said “farmers entered gumboot territory” and 26,000 visitors flocked in 2023 (www.odt.co.nz). This blend of breathtaking rural scenery, cutting-edge farming tech and close-knit community energy is what gives 1191 Courtenay Road its unforgettable character.
Visitor Tips and Information
Tickets: Adults (16+) pay per day (about $20 online, $25 gate (www.siafd.co.nz)); under-16s enter free but still need a (free) child ticket (www.siafd.co.nz). Your e-ticket on mobile will be scanned at the gate (www.siafd.co.nz). Tip: arrive early to avoid later queues, and keep your hand stamped if you leave and wish to re-enter (www.siafd.co.nz). Gate staff accept cards (including PayWave) and some cash (www.siafd.co.nz) (www.siafd.co.nz).
Arrival: Plan to get there a bit before 8 am on the event day. The site can get crowded quickly; peak arrival is around 8–9 am. Follow the parking attendants’ directions. If you need refreshments beforehand, consider grabbing coffee or breakfast in Darfield on your way, as the site will have food options once you’re inside. The walk from the main car park to key exhibits is usually just a few hundred meters on flat ground. Use sunblock and a hat – even if it’s cool, the sun can be strong. Conversely, if rain is in the forecast, bring a waterproof jacket or poncho, and waterproof footwear, since the ground might be slick (www.odt.co.nz).
Clothing & Gear: This is a farm setting, so wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (gumboots or rain boots if damp). Jeans or shorts and layers are ideal – mornings in Canterbury can start cool, then warm up. It’s a dusty/muddy site, so avoid your weekend best. Bring a small backpack for essentials: water bottle, sunscreen and a phone camera. A folding chair or camping stool is optional if you want to sit between exhibits – just make sure it’s low enough that you’re not obstructing others. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses even if it’s cloudy.
Family-Friendliness: Children under 16 enter free (www.siafd.co.nz). There is a dedicated SIAFD Kids Zone with simple activities and seating. If you bring kids, keep an eye on them around machinery demos (lots of loud reels and moving parts). It’s wise to hold small children’s hands when near any fences or vehicles. Reminder: all visitors (even free kids) must have a ticket to go through the gate (www.siafd.co.nz). There are no age restrictions otherwise, and entertainers/mascots may wander the venue (check the program for times).
Amenities: The site has portable toilets (some may be wheelchair-friendly) near the exhibit areas. A conveniently located first-aid station can help if anyone needs medical attention. Look for directional signage on-site for toilets, refreshments, and info points. There is no Wi-Fi provided, and cell coverage can be weak during busy hours – be prepared to be “off-grid” aside from phones. ATMs are not onsite, so carry needed cash (or rely on cards). If touring nearby in Kirwee or Darfield before/after, note that many local spots (restaurants, shops) may only accept card anyway. No coat check or baggage service is available, so do not bring large bags – a daypack or zip-lock bag works best.
Accessibility: While the event is on grass, many pathways between exhibits are level. Access ramps or firm walkways are provided in main areas. If you have mobility needs, plan to arrive early when parking spaces near the entrance are available. The organizers usually reserve a few parking spots closest to the gate for disabled visitors. There are flat, gravelled entry points to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers. If you need extra help on-site (for example, maneuvering through crowds), let a staff member know at the information tent.
Prohibited Items: Standard country-show rules apply. No open fires, fireworks or drones are allowed. Smoking should be done in designated outdoor zones only. Recordings or professional cameras are okay for personal use, but setting up any tripods or broadcast equipment will require permission. In a farming context, it’s common to see people with beers – often a licensed beer tent is available – but bringing your own alcohol for public consumption is generally not permitted (private hires can BYO under strict rules (www.siafd.co.nz), but at the public show it’s best to stick to what's sold on-site).
Insider Tips: Grab a free site map or download the event app (if available) on arrival – it will mark the demo schedule and food stops. Chat with exhibitors: many small farmers and inventors love showing their gadgets. Walk the entire perimeter once; sometimes smaller attractions (like sheepdog demos or wood-chopping) run on the outskirts. If you’re into machinery, the farm equipment runs typically happen between grazing areas visible from up to 100 m away – so even if a viewing area is crowded, you can often watch from a nearby bank or hillock. Finally, plan your day by priority: big demos and talks often have set times, so check the board or ask at an info point which fields they are on so you don’t miss a marquee event.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets cost and where can I buy them?
Adult tickets are around $20 (plus booking fee) if bought online, or $25 at the gate (www.siafd.co.nz). Under-16s enter free with a child ticket (www.siafd.co.nz). Tickets can be purchased in advance via the official Field Days website (Flicket). We recommend getting e-tickets ahead of time to skip queues. You can also buy tickets on the day at the event entrances.
Is parking available at 1191 Courtenay Road?
Yes. Large free parking fields are provided adjacent to the venue access roads. Follow the turnoff signage on State Hwy 73 (Aylesbury Rd) into the event carparks (www.siafd.co.nz). Organisers suggest carpooling to ease traffic. Accessible parking spots are set aside near the main gate. Parking is included with your ticket – no extra fee.
Can I take the bus or public transport to this venue?
Public transit options are limited. On weekdays Metro Christchurch bus route 86 does stop in Kirwee (connecting to Darfield and Christchurch) (www.metroinfo.co.nz) (www.metroinfo.co.nz), but there is no service on weekends or holidays. The stop is still a few km from the site. Most visitors drive instead. If you must use transit, plan to take the weekday bus and then take a taxi or bike from Kirwee village to 1191 Courtenay Rd.
Are there seats or is it standing room only?
The venue is entirely outdoors on grass. There are no built-in seats – it’s general admission. You can stand anywhere or bring your own low chair or blanket. Many people sit on the ground or portable stools to watch machinery demos. Since the ground may be uneven or muddy, a foldable camping chair is handy if you want to sit comfortably during slower parts of the day.
Can I bring my own chair or umbrella?
Yes. You’re welcome to bring a lightweight folding chair or small stool. A compact umbrella or pop-up shade tarp is also fine for weather protection. Just be considerate of others’ sightlines. Holding umbrellas is common if it rains – just be sure not to block the view of the person behind you. (Large tents or BBQ setups are not allowed.)
Are children allowed and do they need tickets?
Children are welcome, and under-16s enter free (www.siafd.co.nz). They must still have a (free) child ticket for entry. Kids zones and family activities are provided. There’s no minimum age for general admission, but children should be supervised around machinery. Note that strollers or prams are allowed; the grounds are fairly flat along the main paths.
Are pets (like dogs) allowed at the event?
Pets (other than service/assistance animals) are not recommended. This is a busy outdoor farm event with livestock and machinery – for safety and hygiene, most people do not bring dogs. Check the organizer’s policy, but in practice only registered guide dogs are permitted. If travelling with a pet, it’s best to leave them at home or in your vehicle (with windows open in shade) rather than in the crowd.
What food and drink options are available on site?
There are many food stalls and trucks throughout the site. You’ll find coffee carts, snack vans, and even farm-style vendors selling pies, burgers, ice-cream and the like. Water refill stations or taps are usually available for drinking water. Alcoholic beverages may be sold at a beer/wine tent if licensed for the show. Outside food (like picnics) is generally allowed – many families bring a picnic blanket – but native foods should be wrapped/clamped. Note that chairs and coolers are fine, but no glass containers unless from an approved bar area.
Are there restroom and baby-changing facilities?
Yes. Portable toilets (including accessible toilets) are placed around the main event zones. Baby-changing facilities are usually integrated into the restroom blocks. Look for the restroom signs near the food areas or ask an event volunteer for directions. These facilities are cleaned regularly during the event.
What should I wear and bring with me?
Dress comfortably for the weather and walking. Sturdy shoes (and even gumboots if wet) are recommended on grassy/muddy ground (www.odt.co.nz). Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and a rain jacket if needed. Layers work well for changeable weather. A light daypack is useful to carry water bottles, maps and any brochures. You may want to pack a foldable chair or picnic mat, as seating is informal. Also bring your phone (for tickets and photos); note that charging stations are not provided onsite.
Can I re-enter the event if I leave during the day?
Yes. If you exit the event for any reason (a “pass-out”), you can return later the same day. When you leave, get your ticket (or hand) stamped by staff at the gate, then re-enter through the same gate using the stamp. This way you avoid buying a new ticket if you need to, for example, retrieve something from your car.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs or mobility issues?
The site is mainly flat, with gravel walkways between exhibits. Wheelchair access to most areas is possible, though grass patches can be bumpy. Accessible toilets and parking are provided near the entrance. If you require assistance, the first-aid or info booth can help arrange a volunteer helper. Since this is a field environment, it isn’t fully paved, but basic accessibility features (ramps, reserved parking, etc.) are in place.
What if it rains or the weather turns bad?
The Field Days are usually a rain-or-shine event. Most activities continue even in light rain. Organizers will put out any alerts on their website or social media if extreme weather causes delays. In practice, dress for rain (waterproof jacket, boots) and bring an umbrella or poncho. Some covered spectator areas may be set up, but much of the site is open. In 2023, for instance, heavy rain on day 1 didn’t stop around 7,000 visitors from attending (www.siafd.co.nz). If storms arise, seek shelter under sturdy temporary structures or follow staff directions to safe spots.
Are there any special rules or prohibited items?
Yes. No drones or remote-controlled aircraft are allowed (people often bring helicopters but not drones). Glass bottles should not be brought in (plastic or metal containers only). Smoking is only allowed in outdoor designated smoking areas. Do not bring pets (except service animals), firearms, or illegal substances. Fires and camping are strictly prohibited unless you have explicit permission (this is not a camping event). If attending a private hire portion of the site (off-hours weddings, etc.), note that BYO alcohol is allowed only under NZ liquor laws (www.siafd.co.nz) – but at the public Field Days, alcohol will only be sold at licensed bars on-site.
What nearby towns or facilities can I use for hotel or dining?
Kirwee itself is tiny, so most visitors drive into nearby towns. Darfield (8 km south on SH73) has motels (e.g. The Pines, Darfield Motel) and eateries including pubs, cafés and takeaways. Rolleston (20 km east) and Christchurch (40 km east) offer a full range of hotels and restaurants. Closer in Kirwee, the Thirsty Acres restaurant (formerly Stoneleigh Pantry) is a popular pub-style spot for lunch or dinner. In short, you’ll likely stay or dine in Darfield or Rolleston rather than Kirwee proper, as Kirwee’s own facilities are limited.
Is there a dress code for this venue?
No formal dress code applies. Attendees come in casual farm wear – jeans or shorts, T-shirts and sweatshirts. Because it’s an agricultural show, many visitors wear gumboots or work boots and work shirts. If there are any special gala dinners (at private hire events), those might have dress guidelines, but for general Field Days: comfy, weather-appropriate clothes are perfect.
How can I contact the organisers or where is the main office?
The official SIAFD office is on-site in a small building near the main entrance. On event days, look for the information board or admin tent – they can answer questions. Off-season, inquiries go to [email protected] or phone (03) 318 1845 (as listed on the SIAFD website footer). Administratively, all coordinating is done by the South Island Field Days committee, reachable via their website or Facebook page rather than a physical downtown office.
