Central South Island East Coast
Welcome to Lions District 202J!
District 202J covers much of the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island – from Rakaia to Milton – and stretches inland from Middlemarch through Otematata and Tekapo to Geraldine. Our landscape is as varied as it is beautiful: the flat, fertile plains of Mid- and South Canterbury, the rolling hills of North Otago, and the tussock and native bush-covered slopes behind Dunedin. With rivers like the Taieri, Waitaki, Rangitata, and Rakaia – along with countless lakes – our district is a haven for freshwater fishing. Coastal waters offer just as much reward, with blue cod, groper, and other species in abundance.
Our towns each bring their own character:
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Ashburton – a thriving agricultural hub surrounded by lush farmland made productive by extensive irrigation schemes. Sheep, cattle, and deer are farmed alongside a wide range of crops, from grains to vegetables and seeds.
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Timaru – a peaceful port town supporting South Canterbury’s farmlands, now enjoying a quieter pace with the rerouting of State Highway 1.
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Oamaru – famous for its Victorian heritage, where Harbour Street feels like stepping back in time. Keep an eye out for penny-farthings on the road!
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Dunedin – the main city of our district, known as the “Edinburgh of the South.” A vibrant university city with over 18,000 students, it’s rich in history and culture, from the Robbie Burns statue in the Octagon to the Edwardian railway station, the albatross colony at Taiaroa Head, Larnach Castle, Olveston House, Speight’s Brewery, and the modern Forsyth Barr Stadium.
Across this diverse region, Lions clubs serve with pride, adapting to meet the needs of both rural and urban communities. Whether in a bustling city, a coastal town, or a quiet farming district, we are united by one purpose: WE SERVE.
Meet the DG...
District Governor Mike Wingfield
Theme: “Together with purpose -We Serve.”
Mike began his Lions journey in 2009 as a member of Timaru Suburban Lions, where he first served as Programme Convenor before taking on the role of President in the 2014–2015 Lions year.
His dedication to service saw him join the District 202J Cabinet as Zone Chair in 2016–2018, followed by four
years as Youth Coordinator. He later served as Regional Chair and Cabinet GST Coordinator.
In 2017, Mike transferred with the New Zealand Police to Dunedin and became a member of Dunedin Balmacewen Lions, the club his father also proudly belonged to.
He went on to serve as their President in 2022–2023. From there, Mike progressed through Cabinet roles as 2nd Vice District Governor, then Vice District Governor, and is honoured to now serve as District Governor for District 202J for the 2025–2026 Lions year.
Outside of Lions, Mike is married to Lion Lynn, who is also a member of Dunedin Balmacewen Lions.
Together, they share three grown sons and eight grandchildren. Mike serves as a Sergeant in the New Zealand Police, and in his spare time enjoys keeping active at the gym, cycling, and playing golf.
 District Governor Mike Wingfield |
Bulletin/Newsletter |
District Convention |
District Governor | Cabinet Secretary | Cabinet Treasurer |
Mike Wingfield (Lynn) T: 021 192 0695 | (03) 455 5204 E: 202j.dg@lionsclubs.org.nz Club: Oamaru | PCC Graham Edge (Linda) T: 021 207 4318 E: 202j.secretary@lionsclubs.org.nz Club: Ashburton | Tony Grubb T: .022 473 1088 E: 202j.treasurer@lionsclubs.org.nz Club: Geraldine |