School hols are coming up yet again, so check out our pick of October school holiday programmes in Christchurch.
October school holidays are just around the corner! If you’re looking for fun ways to keep the kids entertained, Christchurch has you covered with a fantastic lineup of holiday programmes. From dancing like Taylor Swift to splashing about at swim school, we’ve got a mix of activities to suit every little adventurer. Here’s our pick for October school holiday programmes in Christchurch.
Read more: 50 Free Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch
Our top picks of October school holiday programmes in Christchurch:
School holidays are fast approaching, and we’ve rounded up the best October school holiday programmes in Christchurch to keep your little ones busy! Whether they’re into dancing, swimming, or getting creative with arts and crafts, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill the calendar. Be sure to book early, here’s a look at what’s on for kids over the October school holidays:
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October School Holiday Programmes in Christchurch:
The Little Dance Company – Taylor Swift Day
Calling all Swifties! The Little Dance Company is teaming up with sKids for a jam-packed Taylor Swift Dance Camp that’s bound to shake it off. Your kids will be singing, dancing, and crafting their way through a day of T-Swift-themed fun. With sessions in Kaiapoi and Bishopdale, it’s going to be a party they won’t want to miss.
When: Wednesday, 9 October
Where: Morning session: Kaiapoi; Afternoon session: Bishopdale
How much: From $54 to $74 per session. Register for Bishopdale sessions via the sKids website here, or Kaiapoi sessions here.
Kings Swim School

Kings Swim School has a week-long Learn-to-Swim programme that’s perfect for boosting your child’s water skills. With lessons designed for kids aged 4 years 10 months and up, it’s a great chance to build on confidence and water safety over the October school holidays. Plus, with their special promo offer, you’ll want to dive in before spots fill up!
When: Week One: Monday, 30 September – Friday, 4 October; Week Two: Monday, 7 October – Friday, 11 October.
Where: 218 Main South Road, Sockburn
How much: $40 for one week, $80 for two weeks
Book here.
South Library – Librarian for a Morning
Ever wonder what it’s like to be a librarian? Let your bookworms get behind the scenes at South Library. Kids aged 10-12 can learn how to shelve books, use the catalogue, and maybe even share a story or two. It’s a great chance for budding readers to experience the magic that happens behind the desk.
When: Tuesday, 8 October, 9 – 12pm
Where: Sydenham Room, South Library, 66 Colombo Street, Cashmere, Christchurch
How much: Free.
Book here.
Snorkeling Have-a-Go
For the little ocean explorers out there, the Selwyn Swim School has a great opportunity for water-loving kiddos. Kids aged 8-15 can learn the basics of snorkelling and flippers, with plenty of tips and tricks to make sure they’re gliding through the water like pros. For those interested in going deeper, over 10s can experience SCUBA for beginners the following day.
When: Tuesday, 8 October, 10-10.40 am (snorkelling), Wednesday, 9 October, 10.30-11.20 am (diving)
Where: Selwyn Aquatic Centre, Rolleston
How much: $8
Book here.
Play with Wonder

Let the kids’ imaginations run wild with Play with Wonder’s hands-on sessions. From small world and sensory stations to creative play with clay, paint, and dough, your little ones will be in crafting heaven. Best part? They get to take their creations home.
When: Thursdays, 3-10 October, 8.30 – 9.45am
Where: St Margaret’s Presbyterian Church, Bishopdale
How much: $25 per child per session. Email [email protected] to book.
Pinot & Picasso
Art lovers, join Pinot & Picasso for two unique sessions, where kids aged 7+ can let their creativity loose with a fun, guided painting session. With step-by-step instructions from a talented artist, your kids will create their masterpieces while learning new skills and having a blast.
When: Saturday, 28 September, 9.30- 11am (Galaxy) and Thursday, 3 October, 3-4.30 pm (Sid Sloth)
Where: 399 Montreal Street, Christchurch
How much: $39 per person.
Book your Galaxy session here; Sid Sloth sessions here.
Creative Club Holiday Programme
Looking for something arty and crafty? Creative Club is all about using art and crafts to boost well-being and build confidence. Across two days, kids can experiment with a variety of activities, including an outdoor option, baking, and more. Each day ends with an exhibition, so get ready to admire their work.
When: Monday and Tuesday, 7-8 October, 9-3pm
Where: The Bridge Hub, South New Brighton, Christchurch
How much: $50 for one day, $90 for two days.
Bookings open soon – check back here.
Canterbury Horticultural Society Workshops
The CHS School Holiday Programme at Christchurch Botanic Gardens is packed with hands-on workshops for children aged 3-12! From creative clay pot making and planting to crafting nature-inspired art, these sessions are designed to spark creativity and a love for nature. Sessions cost $25 each and include all materials (plus self-serve tea and coffee for caregivers). Grab four or more workshops and enjoy $10 off.
When: Choose from two morning or afternoon sessions per day: Monday, 30 September, Tuesday 1, 3 & 7 October
Where: Botanic Gardens, Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch
How much: $25 per session
Book here.
Do you know of cool October school holiday programmes that we haven’t listed or would you like to know more about how yours could be included? Send an email to [email protected]
Featured image courtesy of Pexlels, image #1 credited to Kings Swim School via Facebook, image #2 property of nook NZ.