Our pick of family-friendly events from 24 – 27 October 2025. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch…
Here’s what’s on for families across Christchurch this Labour Day long weekend — packed with fairs, fun days, Halloween antics and a good dose of fresh spring air. Whether you’re after tractors, tricks or trams, there’s plenty to keep the whole whānau smiling.
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids this weekend:
CSO Music Trails at Papanui Library
Kick off the long weekend with a musical morning from the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. Their brass ensemble is popping into Papanui Library for a 45-minute performance made especially for little listeners aged 2–6. Expect singing, dancing and storytelling that’ll have tiny toes tapping.
When: Friday, 24 October, 10.30–11.15am
Where: Papanui Library
How much: Free
More details here.
Rangiora A&P Show
North Canterbury’s biggest rural celebration is back, bringing together everything from horse jumping to wood chopping. Wander the stalls, cheer on the dog trials, and let the kids explore the farmyard animals. Don’t miss the Kids Zone, live music, motorbike stunts, and the famous Terrier Race – it’s the kind of old-school fun that never gets old.
When: Friday 24 – Saturday 25 October, 8am–6pm
Where: Rangiora Showgrounds
How much: $5–$15
More details here.
Avebury Halloween House
Avebury House is turning spooky again with their annual Halloween bash for under 10s. There’ll be games, trick or treating, a treasure hunt, photo booth, and spot prizes for the best costumes. Perfect for a Saturday morning of harmless haunting.
When: Saturday, 25 October, 10am–12pm
Where: 9 Eveleyn Couzins Avenue, Richmond, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
Trick or Treating at The Hub Hornby
Pop on your costumes and make your way to The Hub for some Halloween fun. Local retailers will have treats for the kids, with spot prizes and maybe even a few spooky surprises. Maleficent will be making an appearance to give a special discount for her House of Tricks & Treats event, so it’s well worth the trip.
When: Saturday, 25 October, 2–4pm
Where: The Hub Hornby
How much: Free
More details here.
Mahoe Reserve Bioblitz: A Nature Search for the Great Southern Bioblitz
Head outdoors and help uncover the wild side of Lincoln. Join Canterbury Museum at Mahoe Reserve to discover what’s living, crawling and growing in our local bush. With microscopes, water testing and soil exploration, it’s science and adventure rolled into one.
When: Saturday, 25 October, 2–4pm
Where: Mahoe Reserve, Lincoln
How much: Free
More details here.
Family Fun Race Day at Riccarton Park
If you’re looking for something different, Riccarton Park’s got you covered. Alongside the races, there’ll be a bouncy castle, face painting and plenty of free activities to keep the kids happy while you relax with a bite to eat.
When: Saturday, 25 October, 12–5pm
Where: Apprentice School Lawn, 165 Racecourse Road
How much: Free entry
More details here.
Diwali Celebration Crafts
Celebrate Diwali at Papanui Library with a hands-on craft session making beautiful flower-shaped lamps. Learn about the festival’s meaning while creating something bright and cheerful to take home.
When: Sunday, 26 October, 11am–1pm
Where: Papanui Library
How much: Free
More details here.
Family Day at The Halswell
The Halswell’s putting on a proper family day this Labour Weekend. Expect face painting, bouncy castles, magic shows, live music, dancing and even kids’ pizza-making classes. A great excuse to stay local, enjoy some good food and support community charities.
When: Sunday, 26 October, 10.30am–3.30pm
Where: 344 Halswell Road
How much: Free (gold coin donations welcome)
More details here.
Orton Bradley Park Spring Fair
A spring day out that ticks every box. Explore the gardens, watch vintage machinery demonstrations, wander through craft and food stalls, and let the kids loose on the adventure playground. There’s live music, rhododendron walks and even flying fox rides. Bring cash and check the weather before you go – it’s a fair that’s worth the drive.
When: Sunday, 26 October, 10am–4pm
Where: Orton Bradley Park, Lyttelton
How much: Gate sales only
More details here.
Ferrymead Alive
Travel back in time at Ferrymead Heritage Park and see history come to life. Take a tram or train ride, meet craftspeople at work, and explore heritage buildings and community pop-ups. It’s an interactive, family-friendly way to explore Canterbury’s past while making new memories.
When: Sunday 26 – Monday 27 October, 10am–4.30pm
Where: Ferrymead Heritage Park, 50 Ferrymead Park Drive
How much: $10–$40
More details here.
Hororata Parish Spring Fair
Wrap up the long weekend with a local favourite. The Hororata Parish Spring Fair is packed with handmade crafts, produce, plants, and old-fashioned country charm. Grab a bacon sandwich, browse the book stall, and let the kids enjoy the rides and games. Rain or shine, it’s a great day out for the whole family.
When: Monday, 27 October, 9.30am–2pm
Where: 90 Hororata Road, Hororata
How much: Free
More details here.
Christchurch Country Festival
The newly reimagined Christchurch Country Festival is shaping up to be a real family favourite this Labour Day. Held at the Vintage Car Club on McLeans Island, it’s a relaxed country-style celebration with something for everyone – from food lovers and live music fans to kids who love a good adventure.
Little ones can meet the animals at the petting zoo, get their faces painted, and enjoy all the fairground fun, while parents soak up the live entertainment, browse boutique stalls, and sample tasty bites from local favourites like Bacon Bros, G’s Pimms and Melton Estate. Expect candy floss, crafts, great food and that easy-going rural vibe Canterbury does best.
When: Monday, 27 October, 10am–4pm
Where: Vintage Car Club, McLeans Island Road, Christchurch
How much: Adults $20, Kids under 16 free, Car load $60
More details here.
