Rolleston was named after William Rolleston who was instrumental in bringing the railway to the town. The railway line was officially opened at Rolleston on 13 October 1866.

A Committee made up of local residents and businesses, chaired by Councillor and Selwyn Central Community Board Chair Jeff Bland, is planning the 150th celebrations.  The theme of the celebrations will be ‘Rolleston – New Zealand’s Youngest Old Town’ reflecting Rolleston’s history but also its recent growth with the population increasing from 1971 in 2000 to around 14,000 today.

“The celebrations will recognise the importance of the railway to Rolleston’s founding, the town’s agricultural connections and links to Burnham military camp – as well as celebrating Rolleston’s newcomers,” says Jeff.

The anniversary will be celebrated from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 October 2016.  The celebrations kick off on the evening of Friday 14 October with a mix and mingle event with supper and light refreshments and an opportunity to view photos from Rolleston’s history.   A drive in movie will also be held Friday night.

On Saturday a free show and multi-cultural festival will be hosted in Rolleston from 10am-4pm.  The show will feature vintage and classic cars, and celebrate Rolleston’s railway connections.  The CultureFest multi-cultural festival will include food and market stalls and entertainment.  On Saturday evening a dine and dance is planned.

The celebrations will finish with a street parade through central Rolleston on Sunday 16 October from 10am.  The parade will end at Clearview School where people can join the fun of the school’s fete.

Businesses can show their support for the 150th anniversary by sponsoring the celebrations, and are invited to contact Jeff Bland on 027 399 9206 or email rolleston.150th@selwyn.govt.nz

- This article is courtesy the Selwyn District Council.