Helensville Community News

Arts in The Ville 2025
2025-10-25 - 2025-10-27 | Helensville War Memorial Hall, 49 Commercial Road, Helensville, New Zealand
10am – 4pm, Helensville’s ARTS in the VILLE is an annual festival and art trail, enjoy art demonstrations, exhibitions and displays, food carts, and fun activities for all ages.
Experience a variety of art made by a huge range of local artists in different media, across multiple indoor and outdoor spaces. Purchase art directly from artists at open studios, collab groups and pop-ups. There will be a craft market, an emerging youth artists competition and a paper boat race. The map will be available for download at www.artsintheville.co.nz, plus printed copies will be at Helensville Arts and participating venues during the festival weekend. Check out the website for more info and follow us @artsintheville.co.nz

Helensville Heritage Festival 2025
2025-10-04
2025 marks the 150 year anniversary of railways to historic Helensville. Celebrate this milestone at the Te Awaroa/ Helensville Heritage Festival, with steam train rides, twilight cemetery tours, antique markets, classic games and sports, and guided tours of our famous heritage buildings with access to Parakai hot springs. Te Awaroa and Helensville Railway Museums will both be open with lots of displays and information about the area including sports history, memorabilia, model trains and railwayana. Walk through town or get on the shuttle and see our beautifully restored heritage buildings.

Helensville Mechanical feat. Corner Hunter Car Meet
2025-09-13 13:00 - 17:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Rautawhiti Park, 124-164 Rautawhiti Road, Helensville, New Zealand
We’ve outgrown our old space and are taking things to the next level! Join us for our biggest Helensville Car Meet yet—now held at Rautawhiri Park and proudly featuring special guest Corner Hunter! Whether you’re into JDMs, classics, American muscle, or anything in between—all cars are welcome. Bring the whanau along for a day packed with epic rides, food trucks, family entertainment, giveaways, and more. You don’t want to miss this!

Kiwi Avoidance Training
2025-09-13 09:00 - 15:00 | Glorit Hall, 2995 Twin Coast Discovery Highway, Glorit, New Zealand

Auckland Tough Guy and Girl Challenge PLUS Tough Gal Teams
2025-07-27 08:00 - 15:00 | Kumeu Showgrounds, Access Road, Auckland, New Zealand
Sunday, 27 July,, Kumeu Showgrounds, 8:00-9:30am - Registration and late entries 10:00am - Event starts in waves of approx. 80 people, 1-2 minutes apart to spread everyone out Wave order is ~ 12km ~ 6km ~ Tough Gal Teams ~ 3km (Auckland only) 12:45pm - Prize-giving. New Zealand’s original mud run series, the Cartrack Tough Guy and Gal Challenge is the ultimate obstacle course race designed for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers. This action-packed event tests participants’ endurance, strength, and determination while offering a fun and exhilarating experience. OR take on the Glow Lab Tough Gal Team Challenge women’s only ultimate adventure for groups of three women looking to test their limits together, build camaraderie, and have a blast while fostering empowerment and supporting each other.

Kumeu’s First-Ever Kids’ Clothing Swap: Shop, Swap & Support Local Families
2025-06-14 10:00 - 15:00 | Kumeu Community Centre, 35 Access Road, Kumeu, New Zealand
The secret’s out… Kumeu’s very first Kids’ Clothing Swap is officially on the calendar, and it’s shaping up to be an event you won’t want to miss! Held at the Kumeu Community Centre, this exciting new initiative invites local families to refresh their children’s wardrobes, connect with others in the community, and support a fantastic cause—all at the same time.
Event Details:
Kumeu Community Centre
Drop-off Day: Friday 13th June, 11am–7pm
Swap & Shop Day: Saturday 14th June, 10am–3pm
First hour is exclusive to swappers. From 11am, everyone is welcome to shop!
Whether you’re a seasoned swapper or just love a bargain, this is the perfect chance to upsize your kids’ clothes, snag a few essentials, or get prepared for a new arrival. Families can bring along gently used kids’ clothing and shoes (sizes newborn to 10 years) and swap them for “new-to-you” items. No clothes to donate? No worries! From 11am onwards, everyone is welcome to shop — with all items just $2 each.
In addition to clothing, we’re also accepting a limited number of high-quality larger baby items—think prams, port-a-cots, bassinets, bouncers, breast pumps, baby carriers and more. These will be available for sale at incredibly reasonable prices, making this event a one-stop-shop for parents and parents-to-be.
All proceeds from the event go to Parent Aid North West, a local charity that provides practical, in-home support to families with children under five. They’re a lifeline for many in our community, offering help when parents need it most.
“This is our first children’s swap, but we’ve hosted annual women’s events for years and seen firsthand the power of community coming together,” says event organiser Bex Holland. “We’d love to see as many local families as possible come along—whether you’re swapping, shopping, or donating. It all goes to an amazing cause.”
Calling All Local Businesses
Want to support local families and get involved? We’re currently looking for local sponsors and donations of family-friendly products or services to help make this event even more special. It’s a fantastic way to give back and show your support for Parent Aid North West and the families they serve.
Leftover clothing will be donated to local charities to ensure nothing goes to waste.
Let’s swap, save, and support each other—because every family deserves a helping hand.
Invite your friends, spread the word, and join the fun!
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @kumeuclothingswapandshop
Want to volunteer or sponsor? Contact Bex at bex.holland@outlook.com
Learn more about the cause: parentaidnorthwest.org.nz

Leys Orchestra Family Concert
2025-06-08 14:30 - 15:45 | Helensville War Memorial Hall, 49 Commercial Road, Helensville, New Zealand
Leys Orchestra's first concert for 2025 features soloists Emily Rendall and Briar English performing 'Andante and Rondo for Two Flutes and Strings' by the flute virtuoso and early romantic Hungarian-German composer Franz Doppler. The wind section have their time in the limelight playing the first two movements of Dvorak's beautiful 'Serenade for Wind'. The AA Milne poem 'Buckingham Palace' is an audience favourite set to music by Harold Fraser-Simson from Fourteen Songs from When We were Young'. Milne also wrote 'The King's Breakfast', which includes a dramatic introduction and a narrator (Miriam Croucher) who tells and sings the tale of a grumpy king who's upset with his morning meal. The programme includes two works from the Covid years. Internationally acclaimed NZ composer David Hamilton’s wrote 'Pohutukawa' especially for Leys Orchestra during the first year of the Covid lockdowns, and UK film and TV composer Debbie Wiseman wrote 'Together' for people confined at home, encouraging them to play and learn a piece of music. Music by Gershwin and Reinecke round out the programme, with Scott Joplin's well-known rag 'The Entertainer' bringing the concert to a bright conclusion.

The Village Market
2025-05-18 08:30 - 13:00, 2025-03-16 08:30 - 13:00 | Helensville A&P Show Grounds, 63 Railway Street, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand
A monthly event that takes place on the third Sunday of every month (except for February) at the Helensville A&P Showgrounds. A lively and friendly market that offers a variety of stalls, live music, free face painting or hair plaiting for the kids, and delicious food and coffee. You can find fresh local produce and plants, artisan food and preserves, handmade crafts, gifts, collectibles, pre-loved items and more. If you are looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend your Sunday morning, you might want to check out this Village Market. No dogs please with the exception of assistance dogs. Gold coin donation for parking – proceeds to the Helensville/Kaukapakapa scouts and St John youth.
For more information contact sarah@riversidecrafts.co.nz.

Hoedown at Shed 16
2025-05-17 19:30 - 23:00 | Shed 16, 3 North Cresent, Kaukapakapa, New Zealand
Come and join us at Shed16 for a good old fashioned hoedown in the country! Special food and drink menus, country music and line dancing. Dust off your best cowboy boots and hats and come along! Prizes for the best dressed on the night!

Comedy on the Rocks – The OGKT! Best in the Fest Edition!
2025-05-10 18:30 - 22:00 | The Original Kaipara Tavern, 26 Commercial Road, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand
Join us for another evening of chaos and hilarity at Auckland's Newest Destination Bar - The Original Kaipara Tavern. The NZ International Comedy Festival is in full force, and we have access to some of the best local and international talent who will be joining us for a night to remember.
We will have surprise acts that will show up on the night and a line up being announced soon! This will sell out so get your tickets today! You don't need to spend all that time and money going into town, getting tickets to multiple shows, spending big on drinks and a hotel for the night. It's right in your backyard!
(Disclaimer: This event is not affiliated with or has any part of the NZ International Comedy Festival)

South Rodney Trapping Workshop
2025-05-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Kaukapakapa Hall, 947 Kaipara Coast Hwy SH16, Kaukapakapa, New Zealand
Join us for an informative event focused on predator control, habitat restoration, and protecting our native species. Whether you're an experienced trapper or just getting started, this is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and take action for conservation!
| Presentations: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Trap Demonstration: 12:00 PM
What to Expect: *Presentation from The Forest Bridge Trust on Kiwi Connectivity – Learn how we’re working to a create safe habitat corridor for kiwi and other native wildlife. *Community Discussion – Share your thoughts on what’s important for conservation in your area. * Kaipara Moana Remediation (KMR) Presentation – Find out about fencing & planting grants and funding opportunities to support habitat restoration and healthy rivers. *Predator Control Presentation – Hear from The Forest Bridge Trust’s Predator Control Team on best practices and how to get involved. *Council Conservation & Landowner Support – Learn about regional conservation goals and how landowners can contribute.
Networking & Trap Demonstration: *After the presentations, connect with local conservation representatives and learn about available support. *12:00 PM – Trap Demonstration with The Forest Bridge Trust Predator Control Team. Learn about different pest species, see how traps work, and find out how you can be part of the Predator Free 2050.campaign. Light refreshments provided. Come along and be part of the movement to protect our native wildlife!

Easter Egg Hunt
2025-04-20 09:00 - 15:00 | Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens, 1481 Kaipara Coast Highway, Kaukapakapa, New Zealand
We’re holding our annual Easter Egg Hunt again so time to load up the kids and head to Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens this coming Easter Sunday.
If you want to come along in your bunny suit or other seasonal dress you won’t be alone.
Egg tokens will be replenished during the day to ensure everyone goes home with easter eggs.
While on the hunt you walk around the beautiful 1 Km sculpture trail which has over 40 marvellous new sculptures created for our 2023 exhibition by local artists on display.
There is also a 2.5km nature trail which meanders around farmland and native forest, has a beautiful lookout point of the Kaipara Harbour and forms an important part of the Kaipara Coast Plant Centre conservation and restoration program.*
PLEASE NOTE; the popularity of this event plus the limited spaces available means that BOOKING YOUR ENTRY TIME IS ESSENTIAL. You can email info@kaiparacoast.co.nz or phone 094205655 or simply buy tickets online at: https://kaiparacoastplantcentre.com/product-category/vouchers-tickets/
Our cute little coffee shop will be running a sausage sizzle on site on Easter Sunday, plus you can select plants for your garden at the Plant Centre during your visit.
A wonderful way to spend Easter Sunday and we’re only a few minutes’ drive North of Kaukapakapa (and around 35 minutes from downtown Auckland).
Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will also be on hand to help with any garden related questions.
* Trail not suitable for wheelchairs or walking frames.
Venue location: Kaipara Coast Highway (SH16), 4km north of Kaukapakapa
Entry: $50 per family
Booking: info@kaiparacoast.co.nz OR 09 4205655

NZ Offroader EGGstravaganza Egg Hunt & Family Day Out
2025-04-19 09:00 - 16:00 | Auckland Off Road Adventure Park, Rimmer Road, Helensville, New Zealand
Get ready for a day full of fun, adventure, and Easter joy at the Eggstravaganza Family Easter Egg Hunt & 4WD Day Out!
Join us on Saturday, 19th April 2025, at the Auckland Adventure Park, Woodhill Forest for an unforgettable day for the whole family!

Whether you're a 4WD enthusiast or just looking for a fun family outing, we’ve got something for everyone:
All 4WD tracks open for the day – perfect for adventurers of all skill levels!
A vehicle-free zone packed with family-friendly activities, including our very first Easter Egg Hunt for kids under 12!A Super Hero-themed bouncy castle, face painters, and balloon artists to keep the little ones entertained.
Local West Auckland children's book author showcasing their stories!
Tasty treats like Hot Cross Buns, plus plenty of PRIZES to be won!

This is the perfect chance to spend a fun-filled day with friends and family while supporting your local community. Don’t miss out on the fun, laughter, and chocolate eggs galore!

Get your tickets now and make sure you're part of this Easter Eggstravaganza!

Rumpus Machine
2025-04-17 08:00 - 17:00 | The Original Kaipara Tavern, 26 Commercial Road, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand
We're looking forward to being back at the Original Kaipara Tavern for a pre Easter celebration on Thursday night of eggs, bunnies and epic classic rock! Either outdoors or indoors depending on weather. So spread the word and get yourself along for some great food and a cold beer and let us help to get your Easter Break off to the right start!

Kiwi Bubble Soccer
2025-04-12 10:30 - 12:30 | Ruatawhiri Park, Ruatawhiri Road, Helensville
Please check our Facebook page on the day for any weather related updates as we might have to position the weather doesn't play ball.
Bubble Soccer is a hilarious combination of traditional sports and big Bubble suits. While your upper body is safely enclosed in a huge inflatable Bubble, players are sent flying through the air and tumbling on the ground as they strive for win.
This event is proudly supported by Rodney Local Board.
Wondering what you need to do if you want to play? Very simple – just turn up, wear comfortable clothes without any sharp items and you're ready to go. No booking is required, however a few minutes waiting time is normal during a busy session.
Bring plenty of water and be ready to have fun! Suitable for kids and adults.
Minimum age is 5 years.
This is a smoke-free and alcohol-free event! and please remember to be kind and respectful.

U3A Monthly Meeting
2025-04-01 10:00 - 12:00
Guests are very welcome. U3A is a unique organisation of retired and semi retired people who enjoy learning from each other and sharing their skills and expertise through meetings and interest groups. Members have a general meeting on the first Tuesday of the month and choose special interest groups to join. Groups at present include: Book Club, Food and Wine Appreciation, Mah Jong, Gardening, Critical Thinking, Shared Reading, NZ History, Out n About, Needle and Stiches and TED Talks. Costs are minimal. For more information contact Bev Silvester-Clark bev.s-c@outlook.com phone 0274316205.

Running Stitch, These Former Things and Superturtle
2025-03-22 19:00 - 22:00 | The Original Kaipara Tavern, 26 Commercial Road, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand
A Night of Original NZ Talent
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of live music at The Kaipara Tavern in Helensville! Experience the raw energy and creativity of three original New Zealand bands, each bringing their unique sound to the stage.

St Patrick’s Day! The U2 Tribute Show
2025-03-16 15:00 - 19:00 | The Original Kaipara Tavern, 26 Commercial Road, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand
ZOO.2 is a premier U2 Tribute Band based in New Zealand, dedicated to capturing the iconic energy, and sound of the legendary Irish rock band. The show takes you on an explorative journey celebrating the greatest hits and timeless anthems of U2. The setlist spans decades, including classics like " _With or Without You_ ," " _Sunday Bloody Sunday_ ," and " _One_ ", as well as classic takes for the diehard fans. ZOO.2 replicates the magic of U2’s live performances with precision and heart. From Bono's passionate vocals and captivating stage presence to The Edge's signature guitar riffs and tones, Adam Clayton's driving bass and style, and Larry Mullen Jr.'s unique drumming style. ZOO.2 delivers a dynamic and authentic tribute that resonates with audiences of all ages. For fans longing to relive the magic of U2 or discover it for the first time, ZOO.2 is the ultimate experience.

U3A Monthly Meeting
2025-03-04 10:00 - 12:00
Guests are very welcome. U3A is a unique organisation of retired and semi retired people who enjoy learning from each other and sharing their skills and expertise through meetings and interest groups. Members have a general meeting on the first Tuesday of the month and choose special interest groups to join. Groups at present include: Book Club, Food and Wine Appreciation, Mah Jong, Gardening, Critical Thinking, Shared Reading, NZ History, Out n About, Needle and Stiches and TED Talks. Costs are minimal. For more information contact Gloria Middleditch jandgmiddleditch@outlook.com 094203007/0211658428 or Bev Silvester-Clark bev.s-c@outlook.com phone 0274316205.

121st Helensville A&P Show
2025-02-22 09:00 - 17:00 | Helensville A&P Show Grounds, 63 Railway Street, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand
Come along to the 121st Helensville A&P Show for a great family day out, complete with farm and competition animals. This year is all about Dairy so you can see a cow and a sheep being milked, have a go at making butter, taste some beautiful dairy products or just pat a pet calf. Elsewhere you can watch the shearer and feel the soft, warm wool, straight off the sheep's back, then admire the spinners and knitters who take the sheep's fleeces and create clothing. If you're a dog lover you can see the clever sheep dogs in action or cover your ears when they have a bark-up (to see who is the loudest Huntaway!). Bring your family pet dog and enter in the Vets North Pet Dog Show or Terrier Race (the Terrier Race is only open to Fox Terriers or Jack Russells). Blacksmiths will be trimming horses' feet and crafting things out of metal. You can follow the Junior Farmer competition over at the Universal Cranes community stage.

Comedy at The Original Kaipara Tavern
2025-02-08 18:30 - 21:00 | The Original Kaipara Tavern, 26 Commercial Road, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand
6.30pm – 9pm. Join us at the revamped Original Kaipara Tavern (26 Commercial Road, Helensville) for a night of hilarity and unbeatable hospitality. For its debut comedy gig, the stage will light up with some of New Zealand’s top comedians and rising stars including... PAUL DOUGLAS - A master story teller and regular headliner at the Classic Comedy Club and as seen on 7 Days and TVNZ’s Comedy Gala. ALAN MCELROY (IRE) - Your host for the evening coming fresh off a win at the NZ Comedy Guild Awards for best MC. You wont want to miss him! LOGAN KITNEY - Brings literal magic to the stage as his hard hitting but polished act of illusions coupled with comedic chops is making big waves in the NZ. ANTHONY WILSON - A crowed favourite comedian whose known to push the boundaries and bring out the laughs with some out the gate stories and well written jokes. as well as our supporting act; CRAIG WESTENBERG, RENEE CHURCH & BRIDGET DAVIES! Whether you're a local or visiting, this is your chance to experience world-class comedy in a warm, welcoming setting. Don’t miss the first of what’s sure to become a legendary night out in Helensville! This will sell out so get your tickets today!

Helensville Art Centre Kids creative painting
2025-01-29 09:30 - 2025-01-30 13:30 | Art Centre Helensville, 49 Commercial Road, Helensville, New Zealand

Art Centre, Helensville Exhibition
2025-01-20 00:00
Our first exhibition back in January is Kaipara Awa - A River That Connects us. Entry forms and details can be found on our website under 'exhibitions to enter' for artists who wish to participate.
Exhibition dates are 29th January - 22nd February, opening night for the community is 31st January 5-7pm! We look forward to seeing you in the new year with lots of creative things to look forward to! Merry Christmas from the Art Centre Helensville

Chill in Ville Music
2024-12-07 16:00 - 23:00 | Kaipara Tavern, 26 Commercial Road, Helensville, New Zealand
The Chill in Ville Music Festival is set to make its much-anticipated return to the Original Kaipara Tavern in Helensville. This year’s festival will feature over six hours of performances from talented local artists, including a special appearance by Jimmy Christmas of The D4.
For attendees' convenience, a shuttle van will be available on the day, and a Food Truck will be on-site to provide refreshments. Tickets are affordably priced at just $40 and can be purchased at Helensville Super Liquor, River Valley Meats, or by contacting Andy Cummings directly at 021 685 199.
The Original Kaipara Tavern, which will be reopening in November, has undergone significant upgrades, including the addition of a newly refurbished garden bar, providing an enhanced experience for festival-goers and locals alike. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy great music in a revitalized setting!

Lions Book Fair
2024-12-01 10:00 - 15:00, 2024-11-30 09:00 - 16:00 | Helensville A&P Show Grounds, 63 Railway Street, Helensville, 0800, New Zealand

Big Little Local
2024-11-23 10:00 - 15:00 | Ruatawhiri Park, Ruatawhiri Road, Helensville
The Big Little Local is dedicated to celebrating our vibrant community and connecting residents with local service providers and businesses. This family friendly event with light foods, music, raffles, silent auctions, door prizes and lots of community connection. Business stalls will have a range of information stands, activities and products available to purchase on the day. All proceeds fundraising from the Big Little Local will be donated to the Harcourts Foundation, who support our local charities and groups through Community Grants.

Rodney Coast Challenge
2024-11-17
Woodhill Forest on the West Coast to Wenderholm Regional Park on the East Coast. It’s our 26th Anniversary this year and we’d love you to come and celebrate with us! For more information www.rcc.org.nz

Social Nexus Parenting Neurospicy Support Group
2024-11-10 15:00 - 16:30 | Social Nexus HQ, 3 Pengelly Place, Kaipatiki (Parakai), Auckland, 0800, New Zealand
We are a peer group of parents supporting fellow parents in our local community who are parenting with some additional hurdles. Things like neurodiversity and rainbow issues can be difficult to navigate at the best of times, parenting in this climate with these added extras can feel isolating and impossible for many. But you are not alone, there are many of us struggling with these kinds of issues in our parenting journey and coming together to share our struggles can be hugely helpful. We have a bunch of resources and reference material on these issues and as adults, identify with rainbow neurospicy spaces ourselves. If you are a parent in the Rodney district looking for your tribe, come lone and say hi. All welcome.
