About us
Hororātā Highland Games
The Hororātā Highland Games are a traditional Scottish Highland Games with a distinctly Kiwi twist, bringing together world-class competition and rural community spirit. At the heart of the event are the competitions — and we are proud to be the only event in the South Island to host the full programme of traditional Scottish disciplines.
Held annually on the Saturday before Canterbury Anniversary Day, the Games attract over 10,000 visitors each year, making it one of the region’s most significant rural events.
Established in 2011, the Hororātā Highland Games were born from a community determined to take charge of its future following the Canterbury earthquakes. In response to the loss of key community facilities, a passionate group came together to create an event that would help rebuild community spirit and provide a foundation for ongoing community initiatives.
The Games are proudly delivered by the Hororātā Community Trust, a registered charity, and have grown into a cornerstone event supporting the Trust’s wider work in strengthening and sustaining the Hororātā community.
The event now attracts more than 800 competitors from across New Zealand and internationally.
Beyond the competitions, the Games offer a rich and varied festival experience. Enjoy Scottish country dancing, live music, and over 20 clans gathering, explore more than 120 market stalls, and take part in a range of hands-on “have a go” activities.
The Hororātā Highland Games are brought to life by over 200 volunteers, known as Clan Hororātā. While many are local, others are drawn from outside the district — united by a shared passion for community, culture, and the unique role the Games play in supporting both rural life and Scottish sport and arts in New Zealand.
Click here to learn more about what you can experience at the event.
This is a family-friendly event that appeals to all ages and visitors don’t have to be Scottish to enjoy it!
“The Games is very much at the heart of our community. It showcases our rural area to the world, celebrates our history, brings people together and provides a fundraising platform for groups.”
“This was my 3rd visit but brought a friend for their first time and they loved it all Spent 7 hours there.”
“An amazing experience, an extremely well-run event. I’m definitely coming back again and bringing the family. Best highland games I have ever attended.”
“As veteran Vendors of large-scale events for 10yrs running, we can say we are delighted and proud to be a part of your events year after year. Your team continues to turn out absolutely outstanding events and we thank you for having us!”
“I was impressed with how well organised the event was and by the number of people who attended which was considerably more than most Highland Games in Scotland. The Hororata Highland Games is most definitely authentic, paying tribute to many Scottish traditions, but I really enjoyed the new elements that have been introduced and the ‘Kiwi twist’ was very special.”
