The University of Canterbury Club (UCC) is a members' social club located at the historic Ilam Homestead, directly across the road from the University of Canterbury. Described by the club itself as offering "good old fashioned hospitality and great atmosphere," UCC welcomes members to enjoy the Homestead's rooms or relax in the peaceful garden with a locally brewed craft beer or New Zealand wine.
Membership is open to current and retired UC staff, postgraduate students, UC Alumni, Erskine visitors, and others associated with the University of Canterbury. Prospective members are welcome to visit as a guest first, signed in by a current member, and new members receive a free drink on their first visit after joining. Membership rates range from $65/year for retired staff and postgraduate students to $130/year for current staff, graduates and affiliated members, with salary deduction options available for current UC staff.
Card-carrying members enjoy access to a wide and ever-changing selection of locally and nationally brewed craft beers, a member discount on tap beer, cider and house wine, members-only barbecues, regular beer tastings and quiz nights, an annual Christmas party, and discounted access to the South Island Beer Festival and Ilam Homestead venue hire.
The Ilam Homestead itself is a building with real history: parts date back to 1858, it was rebuilt after a fire in 1910 by ornithologist Edgar Stead (who established the property's azalea and rhododendron gardens), and its rooms and grounds appeared in Peter Jackson's 1994 film Heavenly Creatures.