Our pick of family-friendly events from 18 – 20 July 2025. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch…
Looking for fun things to do with the whānau this weekend? From sizzling street food to vintage engines, night markets to train rides, here’s your family-friendly lineup across Christchurch, Selwyn and North Canterbury. No need to trawl the internet — we’ve done the legwork.
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids this weekend:
Food Truck FRYday – Rolleston
Rolleston Market is rolling out the goods again, and if you’re raising a mini foodie (or you just need dinner that isn’t toast), this is the place to be. Expect a full line-up of food trucks dishing out everything from Texas BBQ and Asian eats to dumplings and churros. There’s seating, music and lighting, so wrap up warm and settle in.
When: Friday 1 August, 5–8pm
Where: Salvation Army Rolleston – Generation House, 646 Springston Rolleston Road
How much: Free to attend
More details here.
Christchurch Night Market – Ferrymead
Over 50 vendors bringing flavours from every corner of the globe? Yes please. The Ferrymead Night Market is packed with international street food, entertainment, and activities for the kids. Come hungry. Stay late.
When: Friday 1 August – Saturday, 2 August,, from 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Where: 10 Settlers Crescent, Ferrymead
How much: Free to attend
More details here.
Church Street Market – Rangiora
Stalls, baking, books, crafts and a sausage sizzle – this long-running market is a gem for locals. The café does a decent coffee and there’s always a few treasures to be found. This weekend’s market is supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Canterbury.
When: Saturday 2 August, 9.30am–1.00pm
Where: St John’s Anglican Church, Corner of High St and Church St, Rangiora
How much: Free to browse (gold coin donations welcome)
More details here.
Ferrymead Alive – Train Rides and More
If your little one is obsessed with trains, don’t miss this. The Vulcan Railcar will be running at Ferrymead Heritage Park, with train rides running most of the day. Pair it with a stroll through the park and you’ve got yourself a proper Sunday outing.
When: Sunday 3 August, 10.45am–3.10pm
Where: Moorhouse Station, Ferrymead Heritage Park
How much: Adults $8, Kids (5–15) $5, Under 5s free, Family $22
Note: Park entry is additional
More details here.
Vintage Machinery Club Open Day – Harewood
Big machines, noisy engines and rides for all ages. Keating Heritage Park’s Open Day is one for the curious kids and mechanically minded parents. Think static displays, shuttle rides and an old-school peek into the world of vintage tech.
When: Sunday 3 August, 10am–3pm
Where: 723 McLeans Island Road, Harewood
How much: Gold coin donation
More details here.
