Discover what makes this one of the South Island’s most unique rural events, from Highland competitions and bagpipes to market stalls, live music, and hands-on fun for the whole clan.

A Unique Day Out

The Hororātā Highland Games combine the warm rural atmosphere people love with a unique celebration of Scottish culture, competition, music, food, and community spirit.

From the skirl of the bagpipes and the sight of tartan-clad Clans gathering, to the excitement of the heavy events and Highland dancing, the Games offer an experience unlike any other in the South Island.

One of the things visitors love most about the Games is the wide range of “have a go” activities available throughout the day — with many of them free to enjoy. From tossing a caber to trying traditional Scottish activities, visitors of all ages are encouraged to get involved, not just watch from the sidelines.

Plan to spend the whole day at the Hororātā Highland Games — there is something happening from the moment the gates open right through until the closing events.

A Full Day of Action and Entertainment

From the moment the gates open, the Domain comes alive with the sounds of bagpipes, cheering crowds, live music, and competitions happening across the grounds.

At the heart of the Games are the traditional Scottish competitions, including:

• Highland Dancing

• Pipe Bands and Solo Piping & Drumming

• Scottish Heavy Athletics

• Tug o’ War

• Kilted Mile

• Best Dress Lad and Lassie

Competitors travel from throughout New Zealand and internationally to take part, making the Hororātā Highland Games one of the South Island’s most unique and well-attended rural events.

More Than Just Competitions

One of the things visitors love most about the Hororātā Highland Games is that there is so much more to experience beyond the competition arenas.

You can:

• Explore over 120 market stalls

• Enjoy Scottish and local food and drink

• Listen to live music throughout the day

• Meet the Clans and discover your ancestry

• Watch demonstrations and performances

• Take part in hands-on “have a go” activities

• Enjoy fairground rides and family entertainment

It’s a true day out for the whole clan.

A Friendly Rural Atmosphere

The Hororātā Highland Games are proudly community-led and delivered by the Hororātā Community Trust, with more than 200 volunteers helping bring the event to life each year.

Visitors often comment on the welcoming atmosphere, the relaxed rural setting, and the opportunity to experience something authentic, unique, and proudly local.

Planning Your Day

The Games are held at the Hororātā Domain, approximately 45 minutes from Christchurch.

Closer to the event you’ll find:

• Programme information

• Site maps

• Parking details

• Stallholder information

• FAQs

• Competition schedules

on this website to help you plan your visit.

Come and Experience It for Yourself

Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning as part of the clan, the Hororātā Highland Games offer an unforgettable celebration of Highland heart and Kiwi spirit.

We look forward to welcoming you to Hororātā on Saturday 7 November 2026.