Our pick of family-friendly events from 13 – 15 March 2026. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch
Christchurch has a packed lineup of family-friendly events this weekend, with plenty of opportunities to get the kids out of the house and into something a little more exciting than the living room. From vibrant cultural festivals and bustling harvest markets to community open days filled with bouncy castles and sausage sizzles, there is something happening in almost every corner of the city. Whether you are keen for live performances, exploring toy libraries, or letting the kids loose at a neighbourhood celebration, this weekend offers plenty of reasons to get out and about.
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch:
SPACPAC Canterbury Polyfest 2026
North Hagley Park will be buzzing as Canterbury Polyfest returns with two days dedicated to Pacific culture, music and community. Schools from across the region take to the stage to share powerful cultural performances filled with traditional dance, song and storytelling that will have the crowd cheering. Beyond the performances, there are lively markets and food stalls serving up delicious Pacific flavours that tend to draw people in long before they reach the stage area.
When: Friday 13 March, 5pm to 8pm and Saturday 14 March, 8.30am to 5.30pm
Where: Special Events Area, North Hagley Park, Park Terrace, Christchurch
how much: $5 (under 12s free)
More details here.
Waimairi Toy Library Open Day
The Waimairi Toy Library is opening its doors for a morning designed to show families just how many toys one place can hold. Inside you will find more than 900 toys available to borrow, along with friendly volunteers ready to explain how it all works. Outside there will be ride-ons and an obstacle course set up for kids who prefer their playtime with a bit of movement. Add in a classic $2 sausage sizzle and a few one-day-only joining specials, and it is a great excuse to pop in and see what the toy library world is all about.
When: Saturday 14 March, 9.30am to 11.30am
Where: 250 Wairakei Road, Christchurch
how much: Free (sausage sizzle $2)
More details here.
Selwyn Harvest Festival
Rolleston’s town centre turns into a lively celebration of all things local at the Selwyn Harvest Festival. Stalls packed with fresh produce and tasty treats line the area, while live music drifts through the crowd and kids dart between activities. There is plenty to keep younger visitors entertained, including bouncy castles, farmyard animals and amusement rides, while adults browse the market or cast a careful eye over the scarecrow competition entries. It has that relaxed country fair feel, only with a few more food options and a very good excuse to spend the day outdoors.
When: Saturday 14 March, 10am to 3pm
Where: Rolleston Town Centre, next to Te Ara Ātea
how much: Free
More details here.
Kaiapoi Toy Library Open Day
Kaiapoi Toy Library is rolling out a morning of activities that will quickly win over the younger crowd. There will be bouncy castles to conquer, face painting to transform small humans into something more colourful, and a second-hand toy sale that could uncover a few hidden gems. A sausage sizzle will be sizzling away nearby while families explore the toy library and check out the discounted memberships available on the day. It is relaxed, welcoming and built around the simple idea that kids playing happily makes for a very good morning out.
When: Saturday 14 March, 10am to 12.30pm
Where: 9 Cass Street, Kaiapoi
how much: Free
More details here.
SHINE Shirley Neighbourhood Event
MacFarlane Park will be filled with activity on Sunday afternoon as the annual SHINE neighbourhood event brings the community together once again. The park transforms into a hub of family fun with activities ranging from archery to water rollers, plus plenty of entertainment and stalls dotted around the space. Kids will find plenty to keep them busy while parents wander between food vendors or grab something from the ever-reliable sausage sizzle. It is a lively afternoon that captures the simple joy of a neighbourhood gathering where everyone is welcome.
When: Sunday 15 March, 12pm to 3pm
Where: MacFarlane Park, Acheson Avenue, Shirley
how much: Free (food available to purchase)
More details here.
