Hospice South Canterbury provides those with a terminal illness special care and support on their end-of-life journey; while at the same time supporting the wider family. One of their major annual fundraisers is the Caroline Bay Rock & Hop. We talk to Kim Rogers to find out more about this incredible event.

 

How would you describe the event?

The Caroline Bay Rock & Hop in its most simple form is a four-day classic car show, that encompasses the era of the fifties, sixties and seventies. Held on the third weekend in March each year, it began in 2017 with the thought we might attract about 300 cars – 600 registered. Now we have a cap of 1,000 cars and run a waitlist!

One of the highlights of the event is our Timaru District Council Main Street Cruise, held on the Friday evening. Cars cruise Timaru’s Stafford Street and then head out of town to Pleasant Point and surrounding areas, finishing in Temuka with a street party organised by Boost Temuka. Members of the public line the streets with deck chairs, sit back and enjoy fish ’n’ chips and a beverage, and watch the cars go by.

What else can I expect to see?

2023 saw us add in Laps at Levels, a classic car cruise around an international racetrack. This has been super popular and has become a staple activity at the event. 2025 will see a Nog & Natter at the Car Club rooms at the racetrack afterwards.

In 2024 we held a games night, It’s in the Bag, which proved so popular it will also be back for 2025.

However, one of the biggest drawcards for visitors and families is the Gala Day on the Saturday.

Tell us about Gala Day.

The Saturday Gala Day is a ‘Show and Shine’ day for the registered vehicles, with a prize-giving in the afternoon. We have live music, dancing, market stands, food stalls and more. There is a Lucky Ticket raffle for $10k which is drawn live onstage, best dressed competitions, a kids’ scavenger hunt and a fashion show. It is a great family fun day out.

Even if you aren’t interested in the rest of the weekend events, this is a wonderful day to take part in. Past years have seen up to 25,000 people enjoying this incredible day.

Do I need to register or can I just turn up?

If you want to enter a car in the event or attend any of the scheduled events or activities, you must register or purchase tickets via our website. But entry to the Gala Day is simply a gold coin donation at the gate. Every dollar raised goes directly back to Hospice South Canterbury to fund specialist palliative care for patients, families and whānau of the region at no cost.

 

The Caroline Bay Rock & Hop at a Glance:

Held in Timaru on the third weekend of March each year (13–16 March 2025) the Caroline Bay Rock & Hop draws a crowd from across the motu.

Thursday

Laps at Levels (car registrants get to try their cars on a real racetrack).

Friday

Car cruise to Geraldine with various attractions.

Main Street cruise through Timaru, Pleasant Point and Temuka.

It’s in the Bag game show, Caroline Bay Hall.

Saturday – Gala Day

Show and Shine car show; family entertainment, 120 stalls and more!

Rock Your Socks Off party in the Caroline Bay Hall.

Sunday

Sunday cruise to Waimate and Bushtown.

carolinebayrockandhop.co.nz