About Kimihia Research Centre
The Kimihia Research Centre is a major agricultural research facility run by PGG Wrightson Seeds in Lincoln, Canterbury (NZ's South Island). It sits on about 250 hectares of prime Canterbury Plains farmland (pggwrightsonseeds.com ). (In Māori, “kimihia” means “to seek” or “search,” reflecting the pursuit of new plant varieties.) Established in 1975, Kimihia serves as PGG Wrightson’s headquarters for forage, turf and crop breeding (pggwrightsonseeds.com ). Researchers here run extensive breeding programmes for pasture grasses, clovers, brassicas and turf grasses (pggwrightsonseeds.com ). The facility includes seed production fields, an on-site seed cleaning plant and an ISTA-accredited laboratory for seed testing (pggwrightsonseeds.com ). A cold-store maintains genetic seed banks year-round. Kimihia even integrates livestock into trials: sheep and cattle graze experimental plots so breeders can measure animal performance on different forages (pggwrightsonseeds.com ). This mix of field plots, labs and animals makes Kimihia unique. It sits adjacent to Lincoln University and other AgResearch institutes, placing it at the heart of Canterbury’s rich science-and-farming precinct. Over its decades of operation, Kimihia’s innovations have supported New Zealand’s pastoral economy by developing tougher, higher-yielding grasses and clovers for local farmers.
Events and Programming
Although primarily a research station, Kimihia occasionally hosts public events – mostly in the turf/landscaping industry. The best-known recurring event is Turf Days , a biennial two-day turf industry expo held on the grounds. The first Turf Days held at Kimihia took place on March 22–23, 2023 (www.ticketfairy.com ). This outdoor trade show brought in over 30 exhibitors, each demonstrating turf-cutting equipment, lawncare products and research in action (www.turfdays.co.nz ). It targeted turf professionals (golf course superintendents, councils, landscapers and the like), offering hands-on demos and industry talks. A follow-up Turf Days was scheduled for March 19–20, 2025 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Aside from Turf Days, Kimihia doesn’t run public concerts or sporting events. Occasionally PGG Wrightson or partner organisations may host field days or farm workshops here (for example, media or customer farm tours), but these are usually by invitation. So visitors can expect Kimihia’s event calendar to be sparse. In short, the centre sees ongoing research work year-round, but only infrequent public events (typically industry expositions or open days) that require advance registration. When events do happen, ticket prices and schedules vary by program, so planners should watch PGG Wrightson or Turf Days announcements for details.
Tickets and Booking
When Kimihia does host an event, tickets are usually obtained in advance online through the event organisers or PGG Wrightson’s channels. For example, Turf Days offered advance registration through its website and official ticketing outlets (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no permanent box office at the Kimihia site itself. Popular events often sell out, so it’s best to purchase tickets early. Organisers may offer early-bird pricing and multi-day passes. Once an event date nears, any remaining tickets might sell out fast – in 2025 the Turf Days website indicated that tickets were “all ages” and had limited availability (www.ticketfairy.com ). We recommend signing up for event newsletters or checking the official Turf Days/PGG Wrightson website for the latest dates and ticket release information. On-site door sales are not guaranteed; plan to book in advance. Pricing tiers usually reflect general admission vs. professional vs. student registrations at industry events. (For the Turf Days events, pricing details were provided only on registration pages, not on the venue site.)
Seating and Layout
Kimihia Research Centre is essentially a vast outdoor field complex, not a typical seated arena. There are no permanent grandstands or fixed seating arrangements. During events like Turf Days, exhibitors set up marquees, display tents and demo tracks across the open space (www.turfdays.co.nz ). Attendees wander between booths and demonstration plots. Everyone moves in open ground – there are no reserved seats or VIP balconies. The best “viewing” spots depend on the activity: for machinery demos, standing upwind of the action and close to the exhibit allows the clearest view (though it can get noisy). For seminars or presentations, events may erect temporary stages or covered areas, but many talks might simply be at demo stations, so try to stay near the speaker. In general, the layout favors exploration. Visitors should pick vantage points based on the schedule: arriving early for a demo lane or walking fully around the venue helps find unobstructed sightlines. Because the site is mostly level farmland, evenly spread, there aren’t hidden “bad seats” – if you’re outside an exhibitor tent, you’ll still get the sense of each demonstration. One tip: bring a foldable camp chair or cushion for any seated presentations, since portable seating at field events tends to be limited. Also watch out for muddy patches after rain – it’s wise to wear sturdy, waterproof footwear. (There are no dedicated sound systems or lighting rigs built into Kimihia – any PA or lighting will be brought in by the event organisers.)
Getting There and Parking
Kimihia Research Centre is at 742 Tancreds Road, Lincoln 7676, just outside the town of Lincoln in the Selwyn District (www.turfdays.co.nz ). The drive takes about 20–25 minutes from central Christchurch. From the city, take the Christchurch Southern Motorway heading southwest, then exit onto Springs Road toward Lincoln (www.turfdays.co.nz ). Follow Springs Road downstream through Prebbleton; local signage will guide you onto Tancreds Road to the research station. The access road is well-marked for “Kimihia Research Centre”. Most visitors arrive by car. Ample parking is provided on-site during events – in fact, the Turf Days organisers specifically note that “parking is available on site” and marshals will direct traffic (www.turfdays.co.nz ). Public transit is limited: Metro bus routes (e.g. Route 81) connect Christchurch to Lincoln township, but there is no direct bus to Kimihia. If using public transit, you’d need to get off in the Lincoln town center or Prebbleton and take a short taxi slot (~5–10 minutes) to reach Tancreds Road. For big events like Turf Days, organisers have sometimes arranged shuttle buses from Christchurch (e.g. from Riccarton or the central city) directly to Kimihia (www.ticketfairy.com ). Rideshare services (Uber, Ola) do operate in Christchurch and can be pre-booked, though availability in rural Lincoln may be spotty – plan ahead for an evening pickup. In summary, driving is by far the most convenient way to reach Kimihia; just allow a few extra minutes for rural road conditions and event traffic on arrival. Once there, simply follow the parking instructions, which are generally free of charge during public events (www.turfdays.co.nz ).
Inside the Venue
Kimihia itself is a working farm/research property, so visitors should not expect indoor amenities like those at a conventional concert hall. In normal research mode, Kimihia is not open to the public and there is no lobby, coffee shop or museum. For special events (like Turf Days), temporary facilities are set up. Upon entry, there will typically be a staffed registration or ticket check point. Minimal security is employed – attendees usually just show their tickets or event wristbands to staff. There is no mandatory bag search (though standard safety rules apply around heavy machinery). Once inside, the atmosphere is open-air and informal. Vendors from the event may set up portable food and drink stalls (e.g. coffee carts, snack booths or food trucks). However, visitors should not count on a variety of on-site catering – bringing a refillable water bottle and energy snack is wise. (Some attendees even pack picnic lunches on longer days, since restaurants are a few kilometers away.) Portable toilets are the main restroom option; a block of chemical toilets will be placed near the demo areas. If the research station’s main office building is open during an event it may offer additional restrooms, but expect basic facilities only. There is generally no cloakroom or coat-check – guests keep belongings with them or in their cars. At major events, there might be a simple first-aid tent; otherwise, emergency access is via event staff who have medical protocols. As it’s a rural site, Wi-Fi is unlikely to be available for visitors, so plan for spotty cell reception (in practice, major NZ mobile networks do cover Lincoln, but heavy crowds may slow data). Finally, any printed schedules or maps are usually provided at registration. In short, Kimihia’s layout is “come as you are”: casual, outdoorsy, and engineered for hands-on farm-style exhibitions more than comfort.
Nearby Amenities
Because Kimihia is on the outskirts of Lincoln, most services are a short drive or walk away in the Lincoln township. Dining options in Lincoln are limited but decent. Two of the most popular spots are The Laboratory Brewpub and Eatery (known for wood-fired pizzas and craft beers) and The Flaming Rabbit (a pub-style restaurant with bar fare) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). These are about 1–2 minutes’ drive from the venue and often recommended by locals. For quick coffee and snacks, town cafes like the Coffee Culture or Robert Harris offer standard cafe menus. Lincoln’s main street also has a convenience store for any sundries. Bars in town include the brewpub above and sometimes the pub side of the Famous Grouse (near the Lincoln Motel). Visitors seeking more variety typically head into Christchurch (about 22 km away along the motorway) where there are countless restaurants, bars and eateries. In terms of accommodation, options in Lincoln itself are modest. The Lincoln Motel (just around 1 km north of Kimihia) and the Famous Grouse Hotel (in town, ~3 km away) offer mid-range rooms with nearby parking. There are a few Airbnb/home-stays and lodge-style guesthouses listed for the area. Many attendees prefer staying in Christchurch or Rolleston (approximately 15–20 km away) for a wider hotel selection. If you plan to stay overnight after an event, note that Lincoln is quiet at night. Public transport is scarce after dark, so if you’re returning to the city late, pre-book a taxi or rideshare. The town’s local bars usually close by midnight or earlier, so don’t rely on late-night service. In brief: if you’re hungry or looking for a pint after a day at Kimihia, head to Lincoln’s Limited cafes/bars (or prepare for a drive back to Christchurch for late meals and nightlife).
What Makes This Venue Special
Kimihia Research Centre stands out because it is not a typical public venue at all, but a sprawling research farm turned occasional trade-show floor. Its special character comes from that blend of high-tech science and rolling pasture. Architecturally, there’s no grand building – it’s special because of its purpose. Over its history, Kimihia has quietly transformed how Canterbury farms feed animals and beautify fields. It is one of New Zealand’s premier sites for developing new grass and clover varieties that keep sheep and cattle productive. The name “Kimihia” itself – meaning “to search” in Māori – reflects the lab’s mission of search and discovery in plant genetics. Being in Lincoln, it also forms part of Christchurch’s internationally-recognized agricultural-research hub (with Lincoln University and CRIs nearby). A culturally significant aspect is that local farmers have used Kimihia’s seeds and pasture research to boost their livelihoods for decades. Event-wise, nothing of this scale occurs on a staff-only research station except events like Turf Days. These exhibitions have become milestones for the local turf and amenity industry. In many legendary local farming cycles, Kimihia’s trials determine which ryegrass or clover varieties are “winners” – so its work indirectly influences everything from the Canterbury Plains’ wool clip to the lawns of Christchurch’s parks. To artists or visitors, it’s unusual; to farmers and scientists it’s a beloved experiment station. We should also mention that Kimihia’s innovations (and events) strengthen the community: it attracts specialists to Lincoln for meetings, supports agri-business jobs, and even helps build connections between New Zealand’s indigenous (Māori) agribusiness interests and modern farming techniques. All of these unique traits – research pedigree, scale, and ties to local agriculture – make Kimihia feel like a special place in Canterbury’s scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: As a mostly outdoor field complex, Kimihia can be challenging to navigate for visitors with mobility issues. During public events, organisers often provide mown or gravel pathways, but travel between exhibits can be uneven or muddy. If you need ramps or disability parking, inquire with the event ahead of time – facilities are limited but some accommodation can be made. What to Bring: It’s New Zealand, so weather happens! Dress casually but prepared: sturdy shoes or boots are a must, and layer up (think sun hat and rain jacket). Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as there is little natural shade and the fields can have bugs. Carry water and snacks – food vendors may be few. Peak of day is sunny, so appearance can be very different by early morning (chilly, dew) vs. afternoon (bright, warm). Behavior and Rules: There is no formal dress code – farmers’ casual is fine (jeans, polos, t-shirts). No uniforms or fancy attire needed. Children are allowed to attend, but remember the environment: keep kids clear of heavy machinery and livestock, and be responsible around equipment. Typically there is no age restriction on entry, but it’s not a play-zone for youngsters – bring supervision. Photography is generally fine; these days people snap lots of photos of machines and demos. There’s no official ban on cell phone cameras, but do be respectful if you enter any private or sensitive area (it’s a research site after all). Prohibited Items: There is no strict bag check unlike airports, but common sense rules apply. Avoid carrying disruptive items (no fireworks or drones, which could interfere with demonstrations). Pets are strongly discouraged because of biosecurity (livestock are present) and liability concerns. If attending an event, check if outside food/drink is permitted – often you can bring personal snacks and water bottles, but large coolers or alcohol might be restricted. Symptoms to Avoid: If you feel unwell, the first aid at these outdoor events is minimal; inform staff immediately. Common Mistakes: Don’t assume mobile cash only – bring some change as a backup (some rural vendors may not have EFTPOS). Don’t leave valuables in your car unlocked. And importantly, don’t forget to arrive early. Kimihia is remote enough that you’ll want time to park and walk to the demo areas before events start. Many visitors recommend arriving at least 20–30 minutes before kickoff. Internet and Connectivity: If you need internet, note there’s no public Wi-Fi at the site. Mobile coverage is usually OK (the tower in Lincoln covers the area), but heavy crowds or saving photos can slow service. Plan accordingly if relying on maps or email. Environmental Note: Kimihia is a working research farm. Be mindful of the surroundings: stay on marked paths, leave gates as you found them, and don’t sample any crops or plants. Any biosecurity measures (like foot dips) at entry should be used to prevent seed/weed spread.
What is the Kimihia Research Centre?
Kimihia Research Centre is an agricultural R&D facility near Lincoln, Canterbury, New Zealand. It’s owned by PGG Wrightson and serves as a working farm and laboratory for breeding pasture plants (grasses, clovers and brassicas) and turf. The site covers about 250 hectares and includes fields, seed-cleaning labs and livestock trials. It’s notable as a long-standing seed research station (established in 1975) that supports New Zealand’s farming industry.
Who owns and operates Kimihia Research Centre?
The land and facilities are owned by PGG Wrightson (a New Zealand farming and seeds company) through its PGG Wrightson Seeds division. They operate the site as their main research headquarters for forage, turf and pasture genetics. In essence, it’s a corporate research farm run by PGG Wrightson scientists.
Can the public visit Kimihia and take tours?
Kimihia is not open as a regular tourist attraction. There aren’t daily public tours because it’s a working research facility. Public access usually only happens during special events (like Turf Days) or scheduled industry open days. If you’re interested, look for announcements of field-day events or contact PGG Wrightson to see if any tours or workshop days are available. Otherwise, you cannot freely walk in – it’s generally staff-only outside events.
What events take place at Kimihia Research Centre?
The primary public event held there is the biannual Turf Days trade show, which showcases turf-management machinery and technology. The first Turf Days at Kimihia was held in March 2023, drawing over 30 exhibitors (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.turfdays.co.nz ). Other than that, the centre might host occasional agriculture field days or research workshops, but these are usually targeted to industry or academic audiences. There are no regular concerts or sporting events – it’s mainly agricultural showcases.
How do I get tickets for events like Turf Days at Kimihia?
Event tickets are sold through the event organizers, not at the venue. In practice, this means visiting the official Turf Days website (or PGG Wrightson’s events page) to register and purchase. For example, in 2023 attendees registered online in advance via the Turf Days site. There is no on-site box office at Kimihia, so plan to book ahead. Ticket links are usually announced on the event’s promotional materials or newsletters.
How much do tickets cost for events at Kimihia?
Ticket prices vary by event. For trade events like Turf Days, pricing typically depends on early-bird vs. standard registration and may be sold as multi-day passes. Exact prices aren’t fixed since organizers change them each year. It’s best to check the official event registration page for the current rates. (During Turf Days contests, tickets were advertised without price on some pages, indicating they were managed through the official registration portal (www.ticketfairy.com ).)
What is the address of Kimihia Research Centre?
The address is 742 Tancreds Road, Lincoln 7676, Canterbury, New Zealand (www.turfdays.co.nz ). It’s about 22 km southwest of Christchurch. If you enter that street address in your GPS or navigation app, it will bring you to the main entrance of the Kimihia Research Centre (usually signposted on Tancreds Road).
How can I get to Kimihia by public transportation?
Public transit to Kimihia is limited. The closest town is Lincoln, which is served by Metro (Christchurch) Route 81 and Route 82 buses. If you take a bus from Christchurch to Lincoln town center, you’ll still need a taxi or rideshare the last few kilometers to Tancreds Road (the bus doesn’t go directly to Kimihia). During major events, sometimes special shuttle buses are arranged from Christchurch to Kimihia (www.ticketfairy.com ). In general, however, driving a car or hiring a taxi from Christchurch remains the most straightforward way to reach the centre.
Is there parking at Kimihia Research Centre?
Yes – ample free parking is provided on-site during events. The turf industry shows explicitly note that “parking is available on site” with marshals directing vehicles (www.turfdays.co.nz ). Even outside organized events, the centre has space for car parking near the main office. There is no separate parking fee listed. Just follow the signs and staff instructions when you arrive.
Are there seats or VIP sections at Kimihia events?
No, Kimihia is entirely open-field. There are no permanent seats, bleachers or VIP boxes at the venue. During events, all areas are general admission. Companies may provide folding chairs or benches in demonstration zones or under tented areas, but seating isn’t booked in advance. If you want to be comfortable during presentations or demos, bring a folding chair or stand comfortably at exhibits. There’s really no “bad seat” – just find a suitable spot on the grass wherever the action is.
What should I expect inside the Kimihia venue?
Inside (or rather, on) the Kimihia grounds, expect a weatherproof outdoor setting. Entry is usually through a gate at Tancreds Road. At events, you’ll check tickets or registration at a welcome desk. You’ll find mostly open-air demonstrations and exhibitor booths spread across fields. Facilities are minimal: there are typically portable toilets, a first-aid point and maybe a small tent for support staff. Food and drink may be available from trucks or stands set up by vendors, but amenities like cafés or shops are only in nearby Lincoln, not here. Dress casually for outdoor conditions. There is no event-mandated dress code and you may use your camera or phone freely. In a nutshell, it feels like an open outdoor expo – so plan accordingly (layers, sun/rain gear, etc.).
What restaurants or cafés are near Kimihia Research Centre?
Kimihia is quite rural, but the town of Lincoln (~3 km south) has some eateries. Highly recommended local spots include The Laboratory Brewpub & Eatery (a brewpub with pizzas and gluten-free/vegan-friendly options) and The Flaming Rabbit (a bar/restaurant with pub fare) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Lincoln’s main street also has a Robert Harris coffee shop and a Coffee Culture if you need coffee or snacks. For more options (or evening dining), many visitors head back to Christchurch, where restaurants cover every cuisine. There are no restaurants right at Kimihia, so plan meals in Lincoln or before/after traveling.
Are there hotels or accommodations near Kimihia?
Lincoln itself has a few modest places to stay. The Lincoln Motel (a 4-star lodgings on Maurice Street, near Lincoln University) and the Famous Grouse Hotel (a 3-star hotel/pub on Gerald Street) are a few kilometers from the research centre. These offer basic rooms and are convenient if you don’t want a long drive home. There are also holiday homes and B&Bs in Lincoln and nearby Broadfield. Many event-goers instead stay in Christchurch or Rolleston (20–30 minutes’ drive away) for more hotel choices. If you arrive at Kimihia early or late at night, remember Lincoln’s pubs and hotels can close early – booking in advance is wise.
Is Kimihia Research Centre accessible for people with disabilities?
Kimihia is largely open farmland, so full ADA-style access is limited. Paths between exhibits are generally flat mown grass or gravel, but there are no paved sidewalks or elevators on the grounds. Portable ramps or reserved spots may be offered during big events if requested in advance. If mobility access is important, the best approach is to contact the event organisers ahead of your visit. They can arrange parking close to entrance points and help plan a route through the site. That said, participants with wheelchairs or walkers should be prepared for some rough ground and possibly assistance from staff or companions.
Are there any dress codes or items I shouldn't bring?
There is no formal dress code – think “farm casual.” Jeans, sturdy shoes or boots, and weather-appropriate layers are recommended. No high heels or flip-flops (ground can be wet or uneven). Since it’s outdoors, bringing a hat and sunscreen is smart. In terms of items, don’t bring large drones (rules may prohibit them near heavy equipment), and pets are typically not allowed due to livestock and biosecurity. Outside food/drink (like water bottles) is usually fine, but check any event rules on coolers or alcohol. Overall, the venue is pretty relaxed, so use common sense: leave heavy glass bottles or weapons at home, and you should be fine.
Can children attend events at Kimihia Research Centre?
Yes—since events like Turf Days are industry trade shows, they typically allow all ages (often advertised as “all ages” (www.ticketfairy.com )). There are no strict age restrictions listed. Just remember: this is primarily an adult-oriented expo with heavy machinery and farming equipment. If you bring children, supervise them closely around exhibits. Few kid-specific things will be happening, but children can learn a lot by watching demonstrations or seeing animals at a safe distance. Facilities for small kids are minimal, so plan accordingly (e.g., bring snacks and ear protection if needed). In short, kids are welcome but treat the place with caution as you would around any farm machinery.
Can I take pictures or record videos at Kimihia?
Generally, yes – photography is usually allowed at public events. Visitors often take photos of exhibits and equipment. There are no official photography bans, but you should respect exhibitors’ wishes (some vendors may ask you not to publish certain demos). If you see staff or signs prohibiting photos in a particular area, follow those rules. For normal visits (non-event days), there’s no public access anyway, so photo rules don’t usually apply. In any case, it’s good practice to ask before taking pictures of proprietary machinery or inside lab areas.
Are there restrooms and food options on site?
Yes and no. At events, basic amenities are provided. You’ll find portable toilets located around the demonstration areas. If you’re lucky, the office building’s restrooms may be opened for event use, but don’t count on it. As for food, expect at most a couple of roaming food stands or a food truck near entry (ice cream, coffee, or light snacks) at big expos. There is no cafeteria at the research centre itself. Plan to eat in Lincoln before or after your visit, or pack your own lunch and snacks if you’re spending the whole day. Bringing your own bottled water is a must, since there are no kiosks vending water inside the fields.
