LINCOLN, 27 July 2026
Animal lovers from across Canterbury are being invited to Lincoln for a full day of pet-related activities, expert advice and family entertainment as the Selwyn Pet Expo returns on Sunday, 2 August.
The event will be held at the Lincoln Event Centre from 10am to 4pm, bringing together pet businesses, rescue organisations, breed clubs, animal specialists and community groups from across Selwyn and the wider Canterbury region.
Tickets cost $5 per person, while children under five can enter free.
Organisers say the expo will offer something for experienced pet owners, families considering adoption and anyone who simply enjoys spending time around animals.
A one-stop event for pet owners
The Selwyn Pet Expo is designed as a one-stop destination where visitors can meet animals, speak directly with pet professionals and learn more about responsible pet care.
The event will include rescue and adoption organisations, breeders, grooming specialists, pet food suppliers, photographers, animal societies, local retailers and independent makers.
Visitors will also be able to browse a wide range of pet products, including toys, treats, accessories, handmade gifts and personalised pet tags.
Council Head of Venues and Events Catherine Parker said the expo was an opportunity to connect local people with the services and organisations supporting animals throughout Selwyn and Canterbury.
“The Pet Expo is a great opportunity to bring people and their pets together while showcasing what’s available across Selwyn and Canterbury,” Parker said.
“It’s a fun, hands-on event where families can meet animals, ask questions, get expert advice and learn more about caring for pets.”
Free activities for families
The programme includes a free petting zoo, giving children and families the chance to interact with animals in a supervised setting.
Face painting will also be available throughout the day, adding to the family-focused atmosphere.
The first 75 visitors through the doors will receive complimentary goodie bags.
With the expo taking place indoors at the Lincoln Event Centre, the event is expected to offer a convenient winter outing for families looking for an affordable weekend activity.
Rescue and adoption organisations represented
Several animal welfare and rescue organisations will take part in the expo, providing visitors with information about adoption, fostering and responsible pet ownership.
Participating not-for-profit organisations include the SPCA, Cat Rescue Charitable Trust, Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust and Kitty Haven.
These groups play an important role in caring for abandoned, surrendered and vulnerable animals while helping to place them in suitable homes.
For people considering adopting a pet, the expo will offer an opportunity to speak directly with rescue representatives and better understand the responsibilities involved.
Prospective owners will be able to learn about the costs, time commitments and long-term care required before making a decision.
Expert guidance on pet care
The expo will also give visitors access to breed specialists and animal care professionals who can answer questions about feeding, grooming, training and general wellbeing.
This may be particularly useful for first-time pet owners or families deciding which type of animal would be best suited to their home and lifestyle.
Different breeds can have very different exercise, grooming and behavioural needs, so organisers are encouraging visitors to seek informed advice before taking on a new pet.
The event also provides an opportunity for current pet owners to discover local services and products they may not have previously known were available.
Supporting local businesses and community organisations
The Council said it was pleased to have support from event sponsors SafeCats and Four Flax.
Local pet-related businesses and independent makers will also use the expo to showcase their services and products to the community.
Parker said events of this kind helped strengthen connections between residents, businesses and community organisations.
“They help people discover what’s available in their community, support local organisations and inspire others to bring their own ideas and events to life,” she said.
“They all contribute to a connected, vibrant Selwyn.”
For smaller businesses, community expos can provide valuable exposure and allow owners to meet customers face to face.
For rescue organisations and charities, the event can help raise awareness, attract volunteers and connect animals with potential adopters or foster carers.
Promoting responsible pet ownership
A key focus of the Selwyn Pet Expo is responsible pet ownership.
Owning an animal involves more than providing food and shelter. Pets also need appropriate exercise, veterinary care, training, socialisation and a safe living environment.
The expo aims to make reliable information easier to access by placing animal experts, rescue groups and service providers together in one location.
Visitors will be able to ask practical questions and learn more about how to provide suitable care throughout an animal’s life.
The event may also help people understand the importance of desexing, registration, microchipping and preparing for unexpected veterinary expenses.
An event for all animal lovers
Organisers say people do not need to own a pet to enjoy the expo.
The event is open to lifelong pet owners, people considering adoption and visitors who simply enjoy learning about animals.
With live animal encounters, shopping, educational discussions and children’s activities all included, the Selwyn Pet Expo is expected to attract a broad range of visitors from across Canterbury.
The combination of entertainment and practical information is intended to make the event both enjoyable and useful.
Event details
Selwyn Pet Expo
Date: Sunday, 2 August 2026
Time: 10am to 4pm
Venue: Lincoln Event Centre
Tickets: $5 per person
Children under five: Free entry
Tickets can be purchased through the Selwyn District Council website at www.selwyn.govt.nz/petexpo.
