New Zealand Cup and Show Week in Christchurch

In true Cantabrian style Christchurch has its own answer to the Melbourne Cup - a week long festival of fashion, races, entertainment and agricultural showcasing in early November.

Addington Raceway and Riccarton Park Racecourse provide the venues for races & trots with scales of tickets providing access to the various trackside, grandstand, lawn, lounge or bar options.

Just as significant is the months of advance planning which go into organising social calendars and fashion statements for the week’s events. The variety of events available may mean having to carefully divide your time between races, fashion, live music, charity dinners and auctions. Fashion is a significant feature of the week: from late September shop-front windows are adorned with dresses, hats and fascinators whilst men’s fashion at the track has become notably more diverse. Punters and fashionistas alike compete for the coveted Fashion and Best Dressed titles at various race meets. Devotees will be found attending free and ticketed Fashion Collection events during the week - an opportunity to encounter the work of New Zealand designers.

The week features plenty for families at the Harness Racing Meeting and a trip to the Agricultural & Pastoral Royal New Zealand Show at Canterbury Agricultural Park is still considered a rite-of-passage for many New Zealand parents introducing their children to sights and sounds celebrating rural life - providing international visitors with a unique insight into the nation's agricultural heritage. Horticultural Displays underline the practical and professional aspect of this rural tradition on the city fringes.

Many workplaces are closed for Canterbury Anniversary Day but cafes and restaurants continue a brisk business.

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