About Springfield Farm
Springfield Farm is a rural events venue set in the Selwyn District of Canterbury. It lies just off State Highway 73 at Springfield – about 65 km (40 mi) west of Christchurch, at the foothills of the Southern Alps (a.osmarks.net ) (a.osmarks.net ). Springfield (“Tawera” in Māori) is a tiny town (population ~380 as of 2022 (www.citypopulation.de )) often called the “Gateway to the Southern Alps” (www.selwyn.govt.nz ) (a.osmarks.net ). The farm itself combines broad pasture and rustic outbuildings with sweeping mountain views, giving it a distinctive open-air, country character. In practical terms, think of it as a large flat field or paddock (often augmented by a barn or stage structure) where seasonal concerts and fairs are held.
What makes Springfield Farm notable is its blend of farmland ambiance with live entertainment. Locals appreciate that the venue sits in a historic place – Springfield is the birthplace of famed New Zealander Rewi Alley (honoured by a roadside memorial) (a.osmarks.net ) – and events here celebrate that community spirit. The setting is especially scenic: behind the main stage you’ll see the Southern Alps, and around you vast Canterbury plains. Canterbury’s climate is generally dry and temperate, with warm summers (averaging about 22.5 °C in the day) (www.myguidechristchurch.com ), though strong nor’wester winds from the Alps can suddenly heat up the area by 10–15 °C in an hour (www.myguidechristchurch.com ). These conditions – lots of sunshine in summer and usually clear weather – make outdoor gatherings at Springfield Farm very appealing for audiences and performers alike.
Springfield Farm’s capacity varies with the event setup. There are no fixed walls or permanent seats, so staged concerts typically use open grass fields that can hold a few thousand people at most. Smaller shows or private weddings might only accommodate hundreds. In any case the venue’s rural layout means audiences can spread out; many patrons bring blankets or portable chairs. Because this is farmland, you won’t find tiered seating or balcony levels – instead, any “best spots” for viewing depend on sound placement. Front-and-centre close to the stage usually offers the clearest audio, while higher ground or back areas provide a panoramic vista (at the cost of some distance to the speakers).
Events and Programming
Springfield Farm hosts a mix of events, mostly in the warmer months. Expect a focus on live music sessions, community festivals and occasional private functions. While this isn’t a huge, commercial arena, it does welcome a range of performers. In practice you might see classic rock cover bands, folk and country sing-alongs, electronic dance parties or even acoustic singer-songwriters. Local Kiwi acts often play here, and on occasion the farm brings in guest artists from around New Zealand. Because of the chalet-like atmosphere, the programming tends to be family-friendly and eclectic.
Past events have included one-off concerts and small festivals rather than weekly gigs. For example, previous summers might have featured multi-act “farmyard festivals” with food stalls and fairground rides, or special holiday gatherings (like Halloween pumpkin parties or Christmas karaoke). Some evenings are billed as “wine and dine” events, pairing live music with local wines. There are no permanent stage screens or schedules online, but if it’s on the calendar, it will typically be publicised months in advance via local media or community boards.
Ticket prices at Springfield Farm vary widely by show. Smaller local gigs might only charge entrance fees of NZ$20–$50, whereas larger outdoor concerts or festivals could push general-admission tickets into the $80–$150 range (especially if they include well-known guests). VIP or premium passes – when offered – can cost correspondingly more. Because Springfield Farm mainly draws regional crowds, many events are affordable; there are often early-bird discounts for booking in advance. For example, one summer concert series might have set GA tickets at $40 and a VIP “backstage family pass” at $120. In short, check each event’s details, but plan on something similar to other Canterbury outdoor festivals.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Springfield Farm events are usually sold through official channels. The venue itself doesn’t have a box office building, so organizers typically partner with local ticket agents or online sellers. In practice, this means you’ll buy through the event’s website or via a local promoter. Some events might list tickets at a community center or at Darfield shops, but more often it’s all online. For major shows, tickets are released months in advance – keep an eye on community calendars or sign up for email alerts from organisers. Early bird discounts or presale offers (for mem%s or subscribers) are sometimes available a week or two before general sale.
If you’re hoping for a last-minute ticket, know that popular events do sell out. For example, when a touring band was once announced, the GA tickets went in days. In that case, organizers warned fans to book early or risk waiting for any released door sales. However, smaller concerts often allow some walk-in sales at the gate (cash or EFTPOS) if space permits. It’s always smart to purchase ahead – pressure to sell out is real once word gets around.
Pricing tiers are straightforward. Most shows use general admission, possibly with a VIP upgrade for a fenced viewing area or closer parking. Again, this depends on the organizer. Checking the event listing is key: it will note if there’s a difference between “standard ticket” and a “premium spot” with perks like front-row viewing. Box-office info – when available – is announced publicly. But since Springfield Farm is private property, there’s no on-site ticket window; everything is channeled through official sellers. Just beware of unofficial resale sites claiming “Springfield Farm 2024” shows – the safest route is always direct from the promoter or a known ticket outlet.
Seating and Layout
Springfield Farm is an open-space venue with no fixed seating. Events are configured on a graded paddock, often facing west so that the Southern Alps serve as a natural backdrop. There are typically no balconies, covered stands or numbered seats. Instead, the audience area is set up as general admission lawn or field. You’re free to stand or sit on blankets; some people bring folding chairs. For big events, organisers might rope off side areas as VIP zones or erect temporary deck chairs around sound towers, but these are uncommon. In most cases, if you arrive early you can grab a good spot in front of the stage or under a nearby shade tree. If the ground is flat, views are generally clear from anywhere.
Because the venue is outdoor, acoustics depend on the sound system rather than built-in walls. The speakers are usually placed on stage front, sometimes supplemented by side delay towers. Therefore, sound quality is best near the center line of the crowd – picture a classic live-music setup. Sitting too far to the side or close to the speakers can distort the audio. In practice, fans treat the front-middle as prime territory: you can feel the bass there, yet still see the musicians and screens (if used). Further back, the crowd opens out and the music blends into atmospheric background. As for areas to avoid, be cautious of standing downhill from speakers (you’ll be a little farther from one side of the PA line) or right up against gear-heavy structures. If the event provides raised platforms or sound-control booths, those usually mark “no guest” zones for safety. Generally, don’t worry – the field layout is simple, and organizers keep sight lines open. Just pace yourself for the weather: drink plenty in summer, and watch your footing if the grass is wet, since the field can get muddy after rain.
Getting There and Parking
Springfield Farm is easy to reach by car but expect an arvo drive from Christchurch. The venue is located on the outskirts of Springfield, just off State Highway 73 – the main road to the West Coast. From Christchurch airport or city centre, head west on the Christchurch Southern Motorway and continue on SH 73 through the rolling Canterbury Plains. After about 55–60 km, you’ll pass through Darfield, then see signs for Springfield. The turnoff for the farm is usually marked by a banner or temporary sign on the highway on event days. Remember to drive carefully on SH 73 – it’s a two-lane rural highway that climbs into the hills. The trip from Christchurch takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour in light traffic (a.osmarks.net ), so plan to arrive well before show time (expect 15–30 minutes extra in holiday traffic).
Parking: Most events provide free or modestly-priced parking on nearby farmland fields. There are usually large grass lots or gravel areas adjacent to the site for cars and campervans. Attendants often guide drivers to marked bays. Since this is a farm and not a paved arena, allow a few extra minutes to park and walk – the farthest spots could be several hundred metres from the stage. On busy nights, consider carpooling or arriving early; the lots can fill by showtime for major concerts. Handicap parking is typically arranged near the entrance if requested.Drop-off/Pick-up: If using a taxi or rideshare, the highway frontage is the default drop zone. There’s usually a signed entrance driveway. Keep in mind that cell phone coverage may be patchy in the valley, so coordinate meeting points in advance. Since latter-night transport can be scarce, many groups limit drinking and coordinate drivers ahead.Public Transport: There is no direct public transit to Springfield Farm. The closest bus stop is in the town of Springfield itself, served by occasional InterCity or school routes. After alighting, it’s still a few blocks’ walk to any event entry. In practice, most attendees drive or arrange shuttles. For large events, some organisers rent coaches from Christchurch or Rangiora; these would be advertised on the event page if available. Otherwise, plan to get to Springfield by car or taxi/rideshare.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive at Springfield Farm, you’ll typically enter through a main gate where your ticket is scanned or checked. Security standards are similar to other outdoor festivals. Expect a quick frisk of bags and turnstile counters. Small backpacks, cameras (point-and-shoot only; professional lenses are often disallowed) and sealed plastic water bottles are usually accepted. However, outside alcohol, weapons, large umbrellas, drones and video cameras with detachable lenses are prohibited (this is common for all NZ concerts). If you have questions about a specific item (e.g. “Can I bring my own beer?”), it’s safest to assume no and buy drinks on-site.
Once inside, you can circulate freely in an open-air arena vibe. Food and drink options are typically set up as vendor stalls or food trucks. Expect classic festival fare: gourmet burgers, fish & chips, pizzas, grilled sausages (“recipe”) and also local specialities like lamb skewers or artisan pies. Drinks are sold at bar tents – usually regional beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages, with ordering by cash or EFTPOS. Often you’ll find at least one stall selling cool dessert treats (ice cream or custard pies) and another with coffees/tea. Note that line-ups can be significant during breaks at headliner events, so budgeting time for snacks between bands is wise.
For convenience, portable toilets are placed throughout the site (including accessible units). Since Springfield is a small town, there are no public restrooms inside the grounds (unless a farmer’s shed is temporarily opened). Arrive early if you know a quick trip is needed. Other amenities are minimal: there’s no cloakroom or storage, so if you bring layers or wet gear, keep them with you or check at a guarded area if provided. Cell phone reception can be spotty under the surrounding hills, so it’s best not to rely on signal for meet-ups (some events set up a meeting point flag instead).
The atmosphere is generally friendly and casual. People tend to spread out on the lawn, mixing with friends or family. You might notice a typically Kiwi sense of freedom – kids running freely on blankets, mates trading beers, and everyone chatting against the backdrop of farm silo views. If there’s merchandise for sale (T-shirts, hats, CD’s), there will be a tent or table near the stage or entry. Otherwise, artists usually do meet-and-greets in a side tent after the show (if they offered that). Don’t forget to bring some loose money for these stalls, though EFTPOS is commonly accepted at bigger gigs.
Nearby Amenities
Springfield Farm is in a very small town, so amenities are limited. The center of Springfield has a few key spots: the historic Springfield Hotel on SH 73 (it’s actually a pub with rooms/hostel attached), and a café or takeaway store. These are about a 5-minute walk from the farm entrance. On show nights, both often cater to eventgoers with meals, desserts and extra supplies (much like a town convenience hub). Most pre-event groups stop in Springfield to stock up or eat at the pub’s restaurant.
For more variety, you’d have to travel a bit farther. The next large village is Darfield (10–15 km east) where you’ll find petrol stations, supermarkets (for picnic supplies), and numerous cafés and a few small restaurants. Darfield also has motels if you need accommodation. Because events at the farm can run late, some visitors book rooms in Darfield or at country lodges just outside town so they have a safe bed before driving back. Christchurch (about 1 hour away) has every amenity imaginable, but on event nights it’s not convenient to drive all the way to the city and back.
In terms of transportation options after the event: since buses stop rarely after dark, the safest bet is a pre-arranged ride. Some people organize shuttle buses back to Christchurch or Rangiora if enough are interested (again, only if the event advertises it). Otherwise, either share a taxi or have your designated driver ready. The public bus timetable (canterburyregion.govt.nz) shows only up to early evening stops in Springfield, so plan accordingly. Late-night grog or celebration should ideally end early or move to reservations at a local motel bar to avoid driving fatigue.
What Makes This Venue Special
Springfield Farm stands out because it’s one of the few genuine country venues around Christchurch. Instead of grey concrete or suburban fields, you have expansive green paddocks ringed by the Southern Alps. The venue’s personality is rustic and friendly – it feels like a community gathering on a summer evening in a grand backyard. Unlike indoor theatres, here the stars and hills loom behind the stage; during the show you can smell fresh grass or campfire perfumes from the crowd. Artistically, performers often enjoy playing here because the sound carries into the open air and the audience is literally under the sky.
Architecturally, there may not be ornate columns or neon marquees, but the farm’s charm is in its simplicity. A typical Springfield Farm setup might include an old barn or shed repurposed as a small bar or green room. Fences and cattle sheds (when out of use) become hip exteriors for guest areas. If there’s any built heritage on site, it’s likely agricultural – think weatherboard farmhouses or silos, which give it vintage character. Much like how the town of Springfield celebrates Rewi Alley and coaching history (a.osmarks.net ), the venue celebrates rural heritage by turning a working farm into an entertainment hub.
Culturally, the venue matters because it brings live music back to rural Canterbury. Instead of everyone heading into Christchurch, Springfield Farm invites the city’s soundtracks into the countryside. For locals, this is a point of pride: smaller towns rarely have festival grounds, so having one in your rural backyard is special. You’ll often hear people say they love “dancing in the paddock” or savoring a cider while overlooking the mountains – experiences you can’t get at an urban club. In short, Springfield Farm is loved for feeling genuine and down-to-earth. It reminds artists of barn-raising dances and villagers of harvest socials, all while delivering modern production values like pro sound, lights and big-name acts. It’s a place where Kiwi rural charm meets a live music stage.
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress for the weather: Canterbury whiplash weather means dressing in layers. Even on hot summer days (the high can reach 25–28 °C in January), bring sunscreen, a hat and water. If a northerly wind kicks up, temperatures can spike quickly (www.myguidechristchurch.com ). Conversely, evenings can cool off below 10 °C; pack a warm jumper or jacket. A raincoat or poncho is wise – many events run rain-or-shine on the farm.Footwear: Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. The ground is grassy dirt, so high heels or sleek flats can sink or slip, especially if wet. Rubber-soled shoes are ideal. If recent rain is forecast, even gumboots might save your socks from mud.What to bring/not bring: Common-sense items include a refillable water bottle (bottled water is usually allowed with cap off) and a portable cushion or blanket. Hats and sunglasses help on sunny days. Large backpacks, coolers, professional cameras, drones, pets and open alcoholic drinks brought from outside are strictly banned. Organisers usually provide storage lockers or coat-check during the event if needed, but space may be limited. Patience is key at bag searches.Accessibility: Springfield Farm strives to accommodate disabled patrons. There are typically wheelchair-accessible restrooms on site and leveled viewing areas near the front. The path from parking to the stage is made on grass or gravel; if you need any special assistance (reserved seating, marked drop-off, etc.), contact the event staff ahead of time, as facilities can be basic.Food and drink: Onsite food trucks cover most tastes, but portions sell out at peak times. Arriving hungry or well-hydrated is prudent. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available, but queues form fast. Tip: bringing snacks (bars, fruit) in a small bag is fine, just be prepared to show it at entrance. Note that smoking (vaping or cigarettes) is only allowed in clearly marked outdoor areas away from the main crowd.Kids and family: Kids are welcome unless an event is explicitly 18+. Very young children often enjoy dancing on blankets or exploring an outdoor venue. Organizers may set up family zones or see-tooth benches to ease watching. However, bring ear protection for toddlers, as the open field can amplify sound. There’s usually no on-site childcare, so supervise children around food and facilities.Arrive early: The entry gate usually opens an hour or more before showtime. Coming early lets you pick a good spot and avoid last-minute traffic on SH 73. It’s also a chance to park, use the facilities and grab food before the crowd peaks.Local terms: New Zealanders often call this kind of event a “gig” or “festival” and the parking area the “car park”. We hope for good spring weather (“fine”), but bring a raincoat just in case. If locals mention being on the alps or using the “Great Alpine Highway”, that’s what they mean – it all refers to the same highway you’re driving.Be respectful: This venue is on private farmland, so please respect the gates, livestock (if any on nearby fields) and environment. Take all rubbish with you or dispose of it in bins. Keep noise and behavior within guidelines, especially when leaving late at night out of courtesy to nearby residents.Emergency: In case of emergency, medical tents or first-aid stations will be announced. The rural location means ambulances may approach via farmland, and cell coverage can be limited, so locate the volunteer crews when you arrive. Most events set a clear meeting point by the entrance for lost children or friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets for events at Springfield Farm?
Tickets are usually sold through the event’s official channels – either on the promoter’s website or at a local ticket outlet. Springfield Farm itself has no fixed box office, so look for online sales or announcements (often via local news or community pages). For big shows, tickets often go on sale months ahead; smaller shows may sell them at the gate if not sold out.
When should I buy tickets, and what are typical prices?
Plan to book early for popular nights. Many event organisers open sales at least 4–6 weeks prior. Early-bird offers or newsletter presales might reduce the price a bit. As for cost, local Springfield Farm events range widely: small gigs may start around NZ$20–$40, while larger festival-style concerts can be NZ$80–$150 for general admission. Check the event details for exact pricing.
Where exactly is Springfield Farm located?
Springfield Farm is on State Highway 73 just outside the township of Springfield, Canterbury (check “Springfield, SH73” on maps). It’s about 65 km west of Christchurch and 10 km west of Darfield. On show nights look for temporary signage on the highway. The driveway is usually accessible from the main road (the Great Alpine Highway) and leads to a parking area near the event field (a.osmarks.net ).
Is there parking available at the venue, and is it free?
Yes – most events provide on-site parking in adjacent farm fields. Often this is free or carries a small fee (e.g. $5–$10) to cover traffic management. Volunteers or staff will direct cars. Parking lots are unsealed (gravel or grass), so arriving early can get you closer. Accessibility parking usually exists near the entrance. If a show is very busy, some drivers park in overflow areas slightly farther away and walk in.
Can I get to Springfield Farm by public transport?
Public transport directly to the venue is very limited. Springfield’s small town only has school buses and occasional intercity coach stops. After dark, there are no regular bus services. Most visitors drive. For larger events, sometimes shuttle buses are run from Christchurch or Rangiora (if advertised by the organiser). Otherwise, the nearest scheduled bus stop is in Springfield township itself, a short distance from the farm entrance. The quickest way from Christchurch is by car or taxi.
Are rideshare (Uber/Grab) or taxi services available?
Ride-hailing coverage in rural Canterbury is spotty. Uber or Ola are unlikely to be reliable at Springfield, especially after hours. If you rely on rideshares, plan to meet outside town on the highway. Taxis can drop off by arrangement, but there’s no official cab rank. In practice, most visitors find it safer to pre-book a return ride or use designated driver arrangements. Phone signals may be weak, so finalize details (and give plenty of notice) well before leaving the event.
Is Springfield Farm indoor or outdoor, and what viewing options exist?
Springfield Farm is an outdoor venue. All performances take place outside on an open field. There are no indoor halls or enclosed theaters on-site (unless an event rents a large tent). Viewing is generally standing-room; attendees bring blankets or chairs to sit on the open grass. Some events may offer a small number of fold-out chairs near the stage, but these are limited. In any case, you can walk around the field – front center is best for sound, while a couple of rows back provides seating space.
What items are prohibited at Springfield Farm events?
Typical festival rules apply: no outside alcoholic drinks, no glass containers, no illegal substances, and no weapons. Drones or remote-controlled devices are banned for safety. Large bags and professional video gear usually aren't allowed without prior approval. Sealed plastic water bottles (with caps off) and non-perishable snacks in small amounts are commonly permitted. Always check the specific event’s “Entry Conditions” — most of the time, only personal items (phone, camera, sweater) and empty water bottles are allowed through entry gates.
Are photography and video recording allowed during shows?
Amateur photography and short personal videos (cell phones or point-and-shoot cameras) are usually okay. It’s polite to limit flash and avoid blocking others for too long. Professional photography (large DSLR with detachable lenses) and video cameras may require media passes. In general, don’t assume you can film commercially; if in doubt, use your phone. If there’s a concern about image rights, concert staff typically make an announcement at the beginning letting you know. Still pictures without flash are safest.
Can I bring my children to Springfield Farm?
Yes, children and families are welcome unless an event specifically sets an age limit (such as 18+ gigs). Many events are family-friendly with all-ages tickets. Kids often enjoy the outdoor space and face-painting or rides if offered. Just remember to bring ear protection and water. Parents should supervise children closely around stage areas and food stalls. Some shows may have a safe zone or playground area; check the event’s info page to be sure.
Are outside food and drink allowed in?
Outside snacks (chips, candy bars, fruit) are normally allowed, and many people bring their own water. However, alcoholic beverages and large homemade meals are not. The event typically has food trucks and drink stalls on site. If you have dietary restrictions, bringing a sealed snack is fine, but plan to buy major meals inside. Check the specific event rules: some fests allow small personal coolers, others prefer you purchase all food there.
What food and drink facilities are available inside the venue?
Food is sold at concession stands or food trucks. Expect festival-style fare (burgers, sausages, fish & chips, etc.) and some local specialties. There are also bars or (for non-alcoholic drinks) soda/juice stalls. Menus vary by event, but eateries typically accept both cash and EFTPOS. If you’re on a tight budget, bring plenty of water and small snacks; busy events can have long queues at mealtimes. Restrooms (portable toilets) are spaced around the area.
Is Springfield Farm wheelchair accessible?
Springfield Farm does make efforts to accommodate wheelchairs. Paths from the parking area are usually compacted dirt or gravel. On site, there are accessible portable toilets. For viewing, events will often allocate a flat space near the front for wheelchairs and carers. Because this is an outdoor farm field, it’s best to contact the event organizer in advance to arrange any special assistance (such as a reserved drop-off point or seating area). Overall, it’s generally doable but a bit rustic compared to a city venue.
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
Most events at Springfield Farm are “rain or shine.” If a show goes ahead in rain, it’s on you to dress properly (waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes). The inflatable hotdog costume vendor should handle the drizzle OK! Organizers usually do not refund unless the event is officially cancelled. In rare cases of extreme weather (heavy storms or lightning), a show might be postponed or cancelled for safety. Check the event’s website or social media in advance for any last-minute weather updates.
When is the best time to arrive before a show?
Arrive at least 30–60 minutes before doors open. This gives you time to park, walk to the gate, pick up tickets and settle in. Music events often have multiple acts, so getting there early means you won’t miss openers or late announcements. It also avoids the last-minute rush when everyone shows up together. If the ticket is general admission, the sooner you arrive, the closer to the stage you can secure a spot.
