With plenty happening for kids this December and throughout January, we’re here to help you stay updated with what’s on over the school holidays. Read on for all the summer school holiday events…
Summer holidays are here—the six-week marathon where kids have endless energy, and parents run out of plans. But don’t panic! Christchurch has your back with a lineup of events that even the grown-ups might want to join in on. From music and mocies to hands-on workshops, there’s something for all. So, grab the sunscreen, herd the troops, and get ready to conquer the school holidays.
Read more: The Ultimate Summer Bucket List for Christchurch Families
Note: We’ll be updating this article as we see new and exciting events for kids happening throughout December and January, however, please note that events sell out quickly and may no longer be available since publication.
Summer school holiday events:
Mummies and Mayhem
Unearth the mystery at the UC Teece Museum with a LEGO® mini-figure hunt featuring ancient mummies and pharaohs. Crack the code and unlock treasures while soaking up ancient history. Bonus: It counts towards the Children’s University Australasia programme.
When: Until 24 December 2024
Where: UC Teece Museum, 3 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central
How much: Free
More details here.
Get Your Skates On Disco
Skate your way into the festive season with disco lights, a bouncy castle, and all the gear provided. Fun for everyone aged 2 and up, including grown-ups who dare to lace up.
When: 17 December 2024, 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Selwyn Sports Centre, 70 Broadlands Drive, Rolleston
How much: $7.40
More details here.
Music with Michal: A Festive Musical Show
Celebrate the holiday season with a lively musical performance by Music with Michal! Enjoy classic children’s Christmas songs and Michal’s greatest hits in this interactive 30-minute show that will have kids singing and dancing along.
When: Friday, 20 December, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Where: The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard
How much: $5 (+ bf) per child under 13 / $10 (+ bf) per adult. Babies in arms are free.
More details here.
Orana Wildlife Park’s 14th Annual Festive Fun Day
Help the animals celebrate Christmas with festive treats and themed enrichment prepared by the park’s elves. A full day of holiday fun with animal presentations.
When: 24 December, 10 AM
Where: Orana Wildlife Park, 793 McLeans Island Rd
How much: Included with admission; free for annual pass holders
More details here.
The Amazing Dinosaur Discovery at Bromley Park
Step into a prehistoric wonderland and get up close with over 30 lifelike dinosaurs, including the mighty T-Rex, the towering Brachiosaurus, and the crowd-favourite Robotic Raptors. These dinos roar, move, and promise plenty of “wow” moments for little paleontologists. With fossil panning, a dino-mite playground, live walking dinosaurs, and rides, this 90-minute adventure is packed with activities for the whole family.
When: 28 & 29 December, 4 & 5 January, 11 & 12 January | Sessions at 11am and 1:30pm
Where: Bromley Park, Christchurch
How Much: From $28 per ticket (under twos are free!). Book here.
More details here.
NYE Kids Countdown
Kickstart 2025 with Christchurch’s biggest afternoon party for kids and families. Dance, sing, and celebrate with entertainment, food trucks, and a 7 PM mock countdown (complete with confetti!).
When: 31 December 2024, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: North Hagley Park, Rolleston Ave, Christchurch Central
How much: Free
More details here.
Mini Explorers: Guided Trail at Riccarton House
Ready to explore? Kids aged 3 to 13 can tour the hidden corners of Riccarton House, from the attic to the old kitchen. Bonus: Adults can grab a coffee and a free fluffy at The Quarters Cafe.
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays in January, 11:30am–12:30pm
Where: Riccarton House, 16 Kahu Rd, Fendalton
How much: $5 per child; $5 per accompanying adult
More details here.
Spencer Park Market and Gala 2025
Explore over 100 food, craft, and market stalls alongside kids’ rides, games, and live entertainment. Set in stunning Spencer Park, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a beachside stroll.
When: 1–2 January, 10 AM–4 PM
Where: Spencer Park, 89 Heyders Rd, Spencerville, Christchurch
How much: Free entry (rides incur a cost)
More details here.
Pool Party – Summer Chill Out
Need a summer chill-out? Pack your togs, towel, and sunscreen for a splash-filled day of fun. Dive into the thrills of an obstacle course, take on the towering king slide, and cool off with a free Streets ice cream. A perfect day to keep the whole whānau entertained!
When: 4 January 2025, Midday to 5pm
Where: Norman Kirk Memorial Summer Pool, 54 Oxford Street, Lyttelton
How much: Standard pool entry fees
More details here.
Summertime Pop-Up Library
Relax at Margaret Mahy Playground with stories, outdoor games, and Christchurch’s roaming Mobile Library. Take part in the Summertime Reading Challenge for a chance to win prizes.
When: 8 January 2025, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Margaret Mahy Family Playground
How much: Free
More details here.
Outdoor Cinema 2025
Enjoy blockbuster movies under the stars over two weekends of family-friendly screenings. Bring your picnic and settle in for the magic of outdoor cinema.
When: 3–5 & 10–12 January 2025, sessions start at 5:00 PM
Where: Various locations, Christchurch CBD
How much: $5+BF for kids; $10+BF for adults
More details here.
The Wiggles Sound System Festival *CANCELLED*
Get ready to wiggle! The Wiggles’ Sound System Dance Party is bringing its toddler-friendly festival to Christchurch. With vibrant music and interactive fun, it’s the ultimate dance fest for little ones and their grown-ups.
When: Saturday, 4 January 2025, 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Where: Cathedral Square, Christchurch
How much: Individual tickets start at $59 for adults (13+) or children (12 and under). Family passes start at $199 for four people (minimum one adult). Babies under 12 months are free. Buy tickets here.
More details here.
Pool Party Summer Splash
Make a splash with inflatables, bouncy castles, scavenger hunts, and free ice creams. Don’t miss the epic manu competition from 12 PM to 2 PM!
When: 12 January 2025, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Waltham Pool, 28 Waltham Road, Sydenham
How much: Standard pool entry fees
More details here.
Build-A-Bear is Back at The Crossing!
Looking for a fun New Year activity? Build-A-Bear Workshop returns to The Crossing! Kids can craft their very own furry friend, complete with a birth certificate, a special heart ceremony, and plenty of giggles along the way. Sessions are limited, so book early.
When: 13–17 January, 9am–4:30pm
Where: The Crossing, 166 Cashel St, Christchurch Central
How much: $10 per child; book your spot online here.
More details here.
Little Dancing Feet + Zumba® Kids Pop-Up Classes
Get your little ones moving and grooving at Darfield Recreation Centre with these two fun dance classes!
Little Dancing Feet
For ages 1-5 years, this lively class uses scarves, teddies, ribbons, and more to introduce preschoolers to the joy of dance while developing coordination and fundamental movement skills.
When: Monday 13 & 20 January, 10:30 am – 11:00 am
How much: Free for parents/caregivers
Zumba® Kids
A fun, kid-friendly dance class incorporating routines, games, and cultural activities to make fitness enjoyable. Perfect for ages 6-12 years to keep moving!
When: Monday 13 & 20 January, 11:15 am – 12:00 pm
How much: $5 per child
More details here.
Storytimes at Teece Museum
Take a trip back in time with special story sessions inspired by ancient Rome and Greece. Young readers will hear enchanting tales and even get to see some fascinating historical objects. Perfect for the little history buffs in your family.
When: 15 January, 2pm
Where: UC Teece Museum, 3 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central
How much: Free
More details here.
Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Pack a lunch and grab your favourite teddy for the picnic of the year! Enjoy entertainment on the main stage, take a crazy bike adventure, visit the farmyard, and dive into fun play activities. Don’t miss the grand finale Teddy Bear Parade.
When: 15 January, 10:30 am – 1:30 pm
Where: Brookside Park, 242 Brookside Rd, Rolleston
How much: Free to attend, drop-in
More details here.
Pool Party Dive-In Movie
Make a splash with giant inflatables, obstacle slides, farm animals, and free ice cream (while supplies last). End the day with Inside Out 2 on the big screen!
When: 18 January, 12–5 PM
Where: Te Hāpua Halswell Centre
How much: Standard pool entry fees apply
More details here.
Imagination Station Pop-Up
LEGO® fans, unite! Imagination Station is bringing buckets of bricks and endless creativity to locations across Christchurch. Build, explore, and create to your heart’s content at these pop-ups:
When & Where:
- Friday, January 17: Botanic Gardens, 10am–2pm
- Saturday, January 18: Te Hāpua Pool Party, 12pm–5pm
- Sunday, January 19: Riccarton Market, 10am–2pm
- Monday, January 20: Cashel Mall, 10am–2pm
- Tuesday, January 21: Margaret Mahy Playground, 10am–2pm
- Wednesday, January 22: New Brighton Library, 10am–3pm
- Thursday, January 23: Riverside Market, 10am–2pm
- Friday, January 24: Cathedral Square, 10am–2pm
Tūranga Takeover: A LEGO Extravaganza
The celebrations conclude with a two-day LEGO takeover at Tūranga on Saturday, January 25, and Sunday, January 26, from 10am to 5pm. Here’s what to expect:
- Expanded Play Area: Explore Christchurch Brick Show’s ramp run, LEGO walk of fire, and extra play pits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Add your touch to the Murmurations exhibit and admire LEGO mosaics and architectural creations.
- Creative Workshops:
- LEGO Movie Making (Level 4, Computer Labs): 11am–1pm and 2pm–4pm
- Remote-Controlled Car Building (Ground Level, Spark Place): 11am–1pm and 2pm–4pm
- Team Battlebots for ages 12+ (Level 1, Activity Room): 11am–1pm ($30 registration required online)
Stories in the Park
Pack your picnic blanket and sunscreen for a morning of stories, songs, and outdoor fun. With crafts, games, a Story Walk, and even a sausage sizzle, it’s the perfect family outing. D
When: 18 January, 11am–12:30pm
Where: Redwood Park
How much: Free
More details here.
Drive-in Movie – Minions: The Rise of Gru *CANCELLED*
Join us for a fun afternoon movie experience on the southern banks of the Ashley Rakahuri River! Watch Minions: The Rise of Gru on the big screen from the comfort of your car or set up on a picnic rug or camp chairs in the designated area.
When: Saturday, 18 January 2025, 2:00 pm – 3:20 pm NZDT
Where: Break Bank Carpark, Ashley Rakahuri Regional Park, Cones Road, Rangiora
How much: $20 per car. Book here.
More details here.
Jump and Juggle *CANCELLED*
Get ready for a day of circus fun at the Selwyn Sports Centre! Enjoy a show by the Strawberry Fairy Party Entertainer and learn how to hula hoop, juggle, spin plates, and more. Plus, there will be interactive inflatables and the Lu Uno Wall to explore.
When: Sat, 18 Jan 2025, 10 am – 2 pm
Where: Selwyn Sports Centre, 70 Broadlands Drive
How much: $7 per child (under 6 months free), bookings essential
Schedule:
- All ages: 1 pm – 2 pm
- Under 6 years: 10 am – 11 am
- 6+ years: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
More details here.
Millie Jones Wizard’s Apprentice
Elmwood Players’ Kidz Theatre is back with a whimsical story about Millie Jones, a young wizard-in-training, and her clash with a wicked witch.
When: 18–26 January 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Where: Elmwood Auditorium, 31 Aikmans Road, Merivale
How much: $9. Book here.
More details here.
Decorate a Fudge Shape
Join The Fudge Cottage for a hands-on workshop where you’ll create delicious fudge shapes with chocolate and confectionery.
When: 20 & 22 January 2025, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Where: Boys High Building, The Arts Centre, 28 Worcester Street
How much: $10
More details here.
Teddy Bears Picnic on Bishopdale Green
Bring your favourite teddy, a picnic blanket, and some snacks for a teddy-themed morning of crafts, stories, and fun. It’s the perfect event for little ones who love their furry friends.
When: 21 January, 10:30–11:30am
Where: Bishopdale Green, 13 Bishopdale Court (or inside the library if it rains)
How much: Free
More details here.
Books and Bugs at Brooker
Join the big bug hunt and explore the natural world with Christchurch City Libraries and partners. Enjoy nature stories, crafts, and the launch of a new Bookbots adventure on the app.
When: 21 Jan 2025, 10am–3pm
Where: Avon Ōtākaro Forest Park
How much: Free
More details here.
Walking Storytimes at Riccarton House and Bush
Explore the magical bush and enjoy interactive storytime sessions with guided walks.
When: 22 January 2025, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Guided walks at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM)
Where: Riccarton House, 16 Kahn Road
How much: Free
More details here.
Music with Michal – Summertime Reading
Celebrate the joy of reading with Music with Michal! This interactive 30-minute show, filled with catchy songs and dance moves, is perfect for preschoolers and early primary school kids.
When: Thursday, 23 January 2025, 10:00 am – 10:45 am or 11:30 am – 12:15 pm
Where: Tūranga
Cost: $5 per person (adults included). Babies under one are free.
More details here.
Festa di Strada
Celebrate the museum’s milestone of 100,000 visitors with an Italian-style street party. Enjoy live music, free pizza, gelato, and family fun in the heart of the Arts Centre.
When: 23 Jan 2025, 2pm–4pm
Where: UC Teece Museum, 3 Hereford Street
How much: Free
More details here.
Loopy Tunes at the Transitional Cathedral
Join in for a fun whānau Summer event filled with catchy tunes, great vibes, and refreshing activities. After the music, enjoy some fun activities to keep the whole family entertained!
When: Thu, 23 Jan 2025, 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Where: Transitional Cathedral, 234 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City
How much: Adults $5; children free to attend
More details here.
Skate ‘n’ Splash
Kick off the day with 1.5 hours of rollerskating fun at Selwyn Sports Centre, then head across the road to the Selwyn Aquatic Centre for a splash in the pool. Skates and protective gear are provided, and there’s even Pickleball for non-swimmers. Need a breather? Relax in the nearby reserves and playgrounds.
When: 23 January 2025, 9:30am to 1pm
Where: Selwyn Sports Centre, 70 Broadlands Drive, Rolleston
How much: $10. Book here.
More details here.
World Buskers Festival
Experience the world’s best street performers with over 230 acts, from acrobatics to cabaret. Plan ahead for this unmissable summer festival. Check out our guide to the best kid-friendly acts to catch here!
When: 24 January – 2 February 2025
Where: Various locations, Christchurch CBD
How much: Prices vary
More details here.
Picnic in the Park
Bring your blankets and your whānau for a summer picnic filled with fun and games! Enjoy a Story Walk, giant board games, crafts, and a sausage sizzle.
When: 24 Jan 2025, 11am–12:30pm
Where: Barrington Park, Spreydon Library
How much: Free
More details here.
Pinot and Picasso x Build-A-Bear Workshop
Create a custom T-shirt and cub condo for your new plush pal while enjoying the Build-A-Bear experience, complete with a heart ceremony.
When: 25 January 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: 399 Montreal Street, Christchurch
How much: $59 (includes a bear to take home)
More details here.
Emergency Services Family Fun Day
Get up close with local emergency service heroes and explore their vehicles. Enjoy live entertainment and interactive activities for the whole whānau.
When: 26 January, 11 AM–3 PM
Where: Rolleston Community Centre
How much: Free entry
More details here.
Creative Afternoon Out
Let your budding artist shine with an afternoon of cinema and painting. Kids will enjoy a movie at Lumiere Cinema (popcorn included!) followed by a guided painting session at Paint & Sip Studio. All materials and snacks are provided—perfect for kids aged 8 to 14.
When: 27 January, 12:30–4:30pm
Where: The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, 2 Worcester St, Christchurch Central
How much: $59 per child. Book here.
More details here.
Tūranga – Summertime Reading Book Quiz – H1T
Do you love books? Have you been working on your Summertime Reading Challenge? Test your story knowledge and join the fun at this whānau-friendly quiz! Read a range of novels, picture books, classics, and graphic novels to get quiz-ready and compete against fellow book lovers. Get creative and craft your best home-made book character costumes for a chance to win a prize!
When: Thursday, 30 January 2025, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Where: Tūranga: Tautoru / TSB Space, Hapori | Community, Level 1
How much: Free. Register here.
Info: Teams of 2-4 children (aged 8-12) plus one supporting adult. Maximum of 10 teams. Short morning tea break during the quiz.
Chalk Art Competition – Lincoln Event Centre
Got a creative family who loves chalk? Head to the local community centre car park and compete for the title of best chalk artist! Awesome prizes are up for grabs, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.
When: Thu, 30 Jan 2025, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Where: Lincoln Event Centre
How much: Free.
More details here.
Kite Day 2025
Brighten the skies with colourful kites at this beloved summer event. Enjoy kite displays, games, competitions, and snacks from local vendors. No kite? No problem—kites will be available to buy on-site.
When: 1 Feb 2025, 12pm–4pm
Where: New Brighton Beach, Marine Parade
How much: Free
More details here.
