While Selwyn is often associated with families and residential growth, the council says it is equally important to make the district a place where people can enjoy their retirement.
Denise Kidd, the council's Executive Director Community Services and Facilities, says older residents are an important part of Selwyn's community.
“Our council projections show the number of residents over 65 years of age is set to triple in the next 30 years from the latest Census figure,” Kidd said.
She said supporting an active older population would contribute to the district's wider wellbeing.
More than 70 organisations under one roof
The expo will provide an opportunity for visitors to explore community groups, clubs, services and activities available throughout Selwyn.
Rather than having to approach organisations individually, residents will be able to meet representatives and discover opportunities suited to their interests.
For some, that might mean finding a new hobby or joining a recreational group. For others, it could be an opportunity to learn about local support services or meet people with shared interests.
Kidd says Selwyn has a wide range of organisations catering to different needs.
“The key ingredients for a fulfilling retirement are staying active and connected, and the SWELL Expo ticks both those boxes,” she said.
The council hopes the event will encourage residents to explore activities they may not previously have considered.
Why social connection matters
Retirement can create opportunities to pursue interests that were difficult to fit around working life.
It can also change people's daily routines and the social connections they previously maintained through employment.
Community groups and organised activities offer opportunities to establish new routines, maintain friendships and participate in local life.
The SWELL Expo is designed to make those opportunities easier to discover.
For Selwyn, the event also provides a way to connect its expanding older population with an established network of local organisations.
Kidd encouraged residents to attend, explore the available services and consider trying something new.
“We know that a thriving older generation is vital to the success of our community, so I’d really encourage people to get along to the Expo. It’s a chance to see what services and activities are out there and perhaps guide you into new interests and hobbies.”
A free day out in Lincoln
The council says the expo has become an important event on Selwyn's social calendar.
With last year's attendance reaching 2,000, organisers are preparing to welcome visitors interested in discovering what their community has to offer.
There is no admission charge.
“Most importantly, it’s a free event, so it’s a great opportunity to enjoy a day out in Lincoln and meet new people,” Kidd said.
As Selwyn's population changes, the expo offers a practical example of how community organisations can help residents remain involved in district life.
For visitors, the opportunity may be as simple as finding a new activity, making a connection or discovering a service they did not know existed.
Event details
Event: SWELL Seniors' Lifestyle Expo Date: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 Time: 9am to 2pm Venue: Lincoln Event Centre, Selwyn Admission: Free Organisations attending: More than 70 Sponsor: Bupa Supported by: Selwyn District Council
Further information is available through Selwyn District Council's SWELL programme.
Source: Selwyn District Council media release, 28 September 2026.
