Activities for over 55s

A whole body gentle conditioning workout to improve overall strength, particularly the core muscles. Aquacise is a water based class that is suitable for all levels. Due to the in-water nature of the class, this class reduces bodyweight and allows participants to complete movements in water that they wouldn’t necessarily be able to do on land. Runs on all weekdays as well as Sundays, see the Ashburton Pool and Recreation Centre website for times and more information.

Our Art and Craft groups offer essential mind, body and spirit benefits. Stimulate your brain, develop your fine motor skills and have a laugh with a great bunch of people.

Classes include:

Social Stitches
This independently run social group meets weekly. Social stitchers share skills and advice on a variety of needle work and thread-based activities whilst having a chat, enjoying a cuppa and forming friendships.

Pottery
Get your hands dirty and have some fun in our teacher-led pottery class. With a mix of hand building, wheel throwing and turning, glazing and firing you can make a range of pieces to be proud of. Pottery is great for building hand-eye coordination and strength. Individuals work on their own projects with the help and guidance of Ursula, a fellow potter and teacher.

Art Therapy
Join art therapist Eric who guides and facilitates our art class. Eric has an interest in freehand drawing and painting (using varying paint mediums). Materials are provided as is morning tea and the opportunity to meet likeminded class members to meet and chat with.

Our experienced tutor teaches a variety of art mediums: drawing skills, oil painting, portrait painting, pen and ink work and soft pastels. Materials list provided. New queries will be directed to our art teacher Karen prior to enrolment.

Chinese seniors get together for activities such as table tennis, mah-jong, English language lessons, Tai-Chi, choir singing and other cultural activities. Runs on Thursdays. Cost: $15 annual membership.

The Ashburton Support Group meetings happen on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month, either in person or on Zoom, from 7 pm to 9 pm. They are for family members and friends of loved ones with problematic alcohol, drug, or gambling use. They are led by volunteers with their own lived experience, and provide safe, confidential, and friendly places where members can learn strategies on how to cope, gain information and support and be among people who understand. All meetings are free, but you need to call to book a place at a meeting.