Issue 243
Local News for Local Communities
Wednesday 25th March 2026
Phone: 03 318 7450 | Email: info@malvernnews.co.nz | Web: www.malvernnews.co.nz Got something Newsworthy? Let us know too!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Christchurch Food Show Page 2
Art History At Te Ara Ātea Pages 3
Rolleston Mum Walks to Supports Starship Pages 4
Advertising can be booked online via our website: malvernnews.co.nz
CONTACT US FOR ALL YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS: ♦ Weekly Newspaper
(Malvern News) & Monthly Newspaper (Rolleston News) ♦ Business Cards ♦ Photocopying ♦ Laminating ♦ Binding
COUNTRY IN THE COUNTRY The Ellesmere A&P Showgrounds in Leeston were transformed into a vibrant country music haven this past Saturday, March 14, as Country in the Country returned for its highly anticipated second year. Building on its debut, the 2026 edition drew a welcome crowd, firmly establishing the festival as a premier fixture on the local event calendar. Under clear, sunny skies, fans of all ages gathered to enjoy a day that perfectly blended worldclass entertainment with a relaxed, grassroots community spirit. The atmosphere was electric from the moment gates opened at 11:00am. Families took full advantage of the "picnic welcome" policy, spreading blankets across the greens while enjoying a wide array of food carts and carnival attractions. The musical lineup delivered non-stop talent, beginning with soulful sets from Zayde Blair and Steffany Beck. As the afternoon progressed, Adam McGrath & The Eastern brought their signature high-energy folkrock to the stage, followed by a powerful performance from Sisterhood. The day reached its peak with a headline set by global country sensation Kaylee Bell, whose performance left the capacity crowd buzzing until the event concluded at 6:00pm. Changeover time was filled with line dancing from
“Buckles and Boots” Rolleston leading the throng. True to its family-first mission, the festival offered free entry for those 17 and under, ensuring the grounds were alive with activity, from face painting to all-ages entertainment. In just two short years, Country in the Country has carved out a unique space for itself, proving that the Ellesmere A&P Showgrounds is a top-tier venue for large-scale community celebrations. It was a spectacular day of music and memories that Leeston won't soon forget.
Kris Wooles and Christine Lawn, winners of the Malvern and Rolleston News double pass giveaway, thoroughly enjoyed the event.
DEADLINES: Editorial Tuesday 14 April ‘26 | Advertising Wednesday 15 April ‘26