Our pick of family-friendly events from 12 – 14 July 2024. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend…
If you have survived the first week of the school holidays, you’ll be pleased to know there is still plenty on for little ones this weekend. From Christchurch Brick Show 2024 to pop-up clothing sales and music sessions with Natural Magic Pirates, here’s what’s on for kids this weekend…
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids this weekend:
Tactile Tamariki School Holiday Pop-Up Sessions
Run by two ECE mums in Selwyn, Tactile Tamariki hosts sensory learning-based pop-up sessions – and they are back over the July school holidays! Hosting two themed classes, Winter Wonderland on Friday 12, July and Colours of the Rainbow on Monday, 15 July, you’ll want to get in quickly as spaces are limited and sure to be popular with sensory-loving littles.
When: Friday, 12 July & Monday, 15 July, 10-11am
Where: Rolleston Community Centre, 94 Rolleston Drive, Rolleston
How much: $15. There are only a couple of spaces left for the session, so be sure to drop them a message to secure your spot.
More details here.
Mini Explorers: Guided Trail of Riccarton House
Perfect for those aged 3 -10 years old Mini Explorers is back at Riccarton Bush over the July school holidays! Mini adventurers will don their explorer hats, grab a magnifying glass and take a closer look at the cool and interesting things hiding inside Riccarton House. All explorers will be treated to a free fluffy from The Quarters Cafe.
When: Friday, 12 July, 12-12.30am
Where: Riccarton House and Bush, 16 Kahu Road, Fendalton
How much: $5
More details here.
Paper Jam Contemporary Collage Workshop: Bring the Kiddos Special
This two-hour Paper Jam session is packed full of fun and creativity, allowing everyone to make unique artwork with no rules. The studio will be filled with a variety of materials, and a team will be there to guide and help if needed. No art experience is required, making this perfect for all skill levels. Enjoy light refreshments and quality time with your kids while creating something special.
When: Friday, 12 July, 1-3pm
Where: Paper Jam, 35 Ranfurly Street, Kaiapoi, Christchurch
How much: $25
More details here.
CATERPILLARS
This captivating performance features stunning puppetry, mesmerising visuals, and delightful storytelling that will captivate young audiences. Watch as “two enormous plump Caterpillars are caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, with nothing but their wits to cover up escalating blunders.”
When: Friday, 12 – Sunday, 14 July, 1-2pm
Where: Altiora (The Gym), 25 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
How much: $20 Adult; $15 child. Book here.
More details here.
Sienna Blair Pop-Up Sale
Fans of the gorgeous clothing brand, Sienna Blair, will want to mark their calendars to attend Addy & Lou‘s special pop-up event featuring new season samples and goodies. Take your tot along and shop for some bargains then grab a coffee and fluffy at their in-house cafe.
When: Friday, 12 – Saturday, 13 July, 10-2pm
Where: Addy & Lou, 12 Battersea Street, Sydenham, Christchurch
How much: Free to attend.
More details here.
Christchurch Brick Show 2024
Christchurch Brick Show is back for 2024, a must-visit event for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages. Held at Woldbrook Arena, expect incredible LEGO displays, interactive building zones, and fun activities for the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting, be inspired by the creativity and imagination on display.
When: Saturday, 13 – Sunday, 14 July, 9-5pm
Where: 55 Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, Christchurch
How much: $6; children under 2 are free. Book here.
More details here.
Natural Magic Pirate Shows
Join your favourite pirate duo in a morning of puppet and music shows over the school holidays at Rangiora Baptist Church. These fun, pirate-themed performances are split into two; opt for just the puppet show (30 minutes), or the music show (45 minutes) or stay for both!
When: Saturday, 13 July, 10-12pm
Where: Rangiora Baptist Church, 111 East Belt, Rangiora
How much: $6.70 (puppet show); $10.38 (music show). Parents and caregivers are free. Book here.
More details here.
Alice in Wonderland JR
Join Alice on a journey through Wonderland in this family-friendly musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale. Enjoy vibrant costumes, enchanting songs, and captivating performances. Presented by Glass Ceiling Arts Collective, an arts charity supporting young people with disabilities in the performing arts, this event highlights the benefits for all involved. A cash-buy raffle with prizes from local sponsors will be drawn after Sunday’s final show, with winners contacted on Monday, 15 July.
When: Saturday, 13 July, 11-12pm
Where: Papa Hou at the Kind Foundation, 4 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City
How much: $15 per adult; $10 concession tickets. Book here.
More details here.
Don’t Scare the Dentist – Sam Smith
Join bestselling writer Sam Smith for an afternoon of stories, songs, and crafts at Tūranga. Laugh out loud with “Don’t Scare the Dentist” as Dr. Charlie confronts his biggest fear—a child in his dental chair. Sam Smith, a former dentist turned comedian and bestselling author, brings his witty charm and unique perspective to his work. Known for his roles as head writer on 7 Days and Taskmaster NZ, as well as contributions to Wellington Paranormal, Sam Smith promises an entertaining event that’s free and open to all — no bookings required.
When: Sunday, 14 July, 11-11.45am
Where: Tūranga, 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
How much: Free. No bookings are required.
More details here.
Featured image courtesy of Unsplash, image #1 credited to Tactile Tamariki via Facebook, image #2 courtesy of Pexels, image #3 credited to Paper Jam via Facebook, image #3 credited to Altoria via Facebook, image #4 credited to Sienna Blair via Instagram, image #5 credited to Christchurch Brick Show via Facebook, image #6 credited to Natural Magic Pirates via Facebook, image #7 courtesy of Pexels
