Our pick of family-friendly events from 9 – 11 May 2025. Here’s what’s on for kids this Mother’s Day weekend in Christchurch…
It’s Mother’s Day weekend, and if you’re a mum reading this — we see you, we salute you, and we hope someone brings you coffee in bed. If you’re anyone else, here’s your reminder: don’t forget Mum this weekend. To help, we’ve rounded up all the best family-friendly events across Canterbury. There’s crafts, markets, paddleboarding, miniature trains — the lot. Grab the kids, grab your calendar, and get planning.
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids this weekend:
Ōtautahi Festival of Archaeology
Ready to unleash your little Indiana Jones? Head to Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House for a hands-on archaeology day. Kids can excavate, craft, make badges, dress up like archaeologists, and quiz real-life experts about their coolest artefacts. Plus, everyone gets a free Charlies juice pouch. Yes, everyone.
When: Saturday 10 May, 11am–3pm
Where: 83 Clyde Road
How much: Free
More details here.
Messy Mates Mother’s Day Craft Event
Want a handmade masterpiece for Mum that doesn’t involve glitter stuck in your carpet? For $10, kids can make a craft gift and personalised card with The Make Company at Messy Mates’ brand new space at The Hub. It’s drop-in, but you can book ahead to dodge the wait. Maximum of 20 kids at a time, so maybe have a coffee plan ready.
When: Saturday 10 May, 9am–1pm
Where: Messy Mates, The Hub Hornby
How much: $10 per child. Book here.
More details here.
Rolleston Pre-Loved Market
Secondhand treasures galore! Expect clothes, toys, books, kitchen bits, and more. Perfect for thrifty mums or kids hunting for a sneaky Mother’s Day find. Plus, food, coffee, and sweet treats to fuel your bargain-hunting.
When: Saturday 10 May, 10am–2pm
Where: Rolleston Community Centre
How much: Free entry
More details here.
Paddleboarding Have-a-Go
Fancy making a splash? Kids 7+ can try paddleboarding at Selwyn Aquatic Centre — kneel, stand, paddle, fall in, repeat. It’s fun, it’s sneaky exercise, and it’ll tire them out. Bookings required!
When: Saturday 10 May, 1.30–3.30pm
Where: Selwyn Aquatic Centre
How much: $10 per person
More details here.
Mother’s Day at Chipmunks Wigram
Mums, you could win a Westfield gift card just for turning up — no extra effort required. There are five $50 cards and five $20 cards up for grabs, plus Chipmunks coffee and fun packs. Remember, one entry per paid admission.
When: Sunday 11 May, 9.30am onwards
Where: 218 Main South Road, Wigram
How much: Paid admission applies
More details here.
The Palms Mother’s Day Market
Face painting, DIY kids’ card station, and gift wrapping — The Palms is making sure no one leaves empty-handed. Bonus: the first 50 shoppers who spend $100 or more score a free goodie bag.
When: Saturday 10 May, 9am–6pm
Where: The Palms Shopping Centre
How much: Free entry
More details here.
Christchurch Gypsy Fair
It’s the last Gypsy Fair of the season, so make a day of it! Funky stalls, rides, live music, family games, and the not-to-be-missed Fire & Flow shows at midday. Pack a picnic or grab something tasty onsite.
When: Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May, 9am–5pm
Where: Stanmore Road (opposite New World)
How much: Free entry
More details here.
Mother’s Day Greater Hornby Market
Browse local crafts while the kids get stuck into free Mother’s Day crafts — it’s a win-win. Find a one-of-a-kind gift and maybe even enjoy a coffee in peace (we said maybe).
When: Saturday 10 May, 10am–2pm
Where: South Hornby School
How much: Free entry
More details here.
Glenlothian Farm Mother’s Day Special
Farm vibes and pond views, plus a $10 entry for mums and goodies to spoil her. Sip a drink on the deck while the kids roam — sounds like a pretty good day to us.
When: Sunday 11 May
Where: 52 Lawford Road
How much: $10 entry for mums
More details here.
McLeans Island Mini Trains Night Run
Miniature trains, traction engines, and rides for just $2 a pop. It’s all happening after dark, so bundle up the kids and enjoy a Saturday evening under the stars.
When: Saturday 10 May, 4–8pm
Where: 621 McLeans Island Road
How much: Free entry, $2 per ride
More details here.
Parklands Mother’s Day Carboot and Market Day
An indoor and outdoor market with carboot treasures, a sausage sizzle, barista coffee, and cake. Snag a gift for Mum or just wander and snack your way around.
When: Saturday 10 May, 9.30am–12.30pm
Where: 180 Queenspark Drive, Parklands
How much: Free entry
More details here.
