What’s On for Kids This Weekend: Fresh in the Park, Wanderlust Fairground and more

Our pick of family-friendly events from 14 – 16, February 2025. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch…



Looking for something fun to do with the kids this weekend? Whether you’re after action-packed thrills, creative workshops, or a relaxing market stroll, there’s plenty happening across Christchurch. Here’s your go-to guide for family-friendly fun—no need to search high and low, we’ve done the hard work for you!

Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.

What’s on for kids this weekend:

Sunflower Fields in Christchurch: Christchurch Sunflower Fields

Christchurch Sunflower Fields – Opening Night

Kick off the season with a sunset stroll through golden sunflower fields. Grab bites from local food trucks, sip Rossendale wine, and enjoy live music from Matt Hantler. Bring a picnic blanket, your favourite people, and soak up the summer magic.

When: Friday, 14 February, from 4pm
Where: Old Tai Tapu Rd, Kennedys Bush, Christchurch
Cost: $5 entry (ages 5+), $3 per sunflower stem (Eftpos available)

More details here.

Read more: Sunflower Fields in Christchurch: Where to Stroll, Snap, and Pick Your Own

Wanderlust Fairground

Two full days of fairground fun! Mini jeeps, bouncy castles, bungee trampolines, face painting, airbrush tattoos—this is every kid’s dream weekend. Bring the whole whānau and enjoy the carnival vibes.

When: Saturday & Sunday, 15–16 February, 10am–4pm
Where: Rangiora Racecourse
How much: Free entry. Entertainment costs vary.

More details here.

Festival of Women and Girls in Science 2025

A hands-on science festival celebrating the achievements of women in STEM. Expect engaging exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and inspiring scientists who’ll have your kids dreaming big!

When: Saturday, 15 February, 10am–3pm
Where: Tūranga, 60 Cathedral Square
How much: Free

More details here.

things to do in Christchurch for free: richmond community gardens

Riverlution Farmers Market

Fresh produce, artisan treats, great coffee, and live music—this market is the perfect weekend stop. Nestled in Richmond Community Garden, it’s a great way to shop local and soak up the summer atmosphere.

When: Saturday, 15 February, 9am – 12pm
Where: 50B Vogel St, Richmond
How much: Free entry

More details here.

Read more: Our Favourite Family-Friendly Markets in Christchurch

Family Celebration + Lion Dance Workshop

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Chinese games, storytelling, and shadow puppet making. Want to learn a lion dance? Kids aged 9–16 can join the workshop, make their own lion head, and perform a dance!

When: Saturday, 15 February, 1pm–3pm
Where: Upper Riccarton Library, 71 Main South Road, Sockburn
How much: Free. No booking is required.

More details here.

Flips & Tumbles Free Trial

Parkour, trampolining, and tumbling—this free trial class will help to build confidence and coordination. Perfect for active kids looking to learn some new tricks!

When: Saturday, 15 February, 12pm
Where: 12 Musgrove Close, Wigram
How much: Free.

More details here.

Rolleston Toy Library Grand Reopening

A fun-filled celebration with a bouncy castle, face painting, a toy sale, and the chance to win a $100 membership! Got good-condition toys to donate? Bring them along.

When: Sunday, 16 February, 2pm–4pm
Where: 999 Goulds Rd, Rolleston
How much: Free

More details here.

Read more: These Christchurch Toy Libraries Are a Great Space (and Money) Saving Alternative

Skate Jam 2025

Grab a skateboard and helmet (or borrow one on the day) and join the Skate Skool crew for a fun session with coaching, prizes, and a DJ. A great way for kids of all skill levels to give it a go!

When: Sunday, 16 February, 1pm–3pm
Where: Westview Reserve, Darfield
How much: Free

More details here.

Rānui House Summer Trots at Mot

A classic Kiwi day out at the races! Motukarara’s harness racing brings the excitement, while the live music and kids’ activities keep the whole family entertained. Bring a picnic, grab a spot on the lawn, or book a gazebo for the best view. First race at midday!

When: Sunday, 16 February, from 10am
Where: Motukarara, 115 Park Rd, Tai Tapu
How much: $10 gate entry, kids free

More details here.

whats on for kids this weekend: fresh in the park

Fresh in the Park

A full-on family day with a pool party, DJ, free haircuts, henna art, soft archery, basketball, and more! Note: pool party is for kids 8+ and those under 10 need an adult with them.

When: Sunday, 16 February, 11am–3pm
Where: Sheldon Park, Belfast
How much: Free

More details here.

Parklands @ Play

Bouncy castles, face painting, live music, and food vendors—this community event has something for everyone. A dedicated preschool zone means the littlest family members are covered too!

When: Sunday, 16 February, 12pm–3pm
Where: Parklands Reserve
How much: Free

More details here.

Pets and Family Fun Day at The Laboratory

Furry friends and family fun! With outdoor games, a fire truck, sundaes, and prizes for best-dressed pets, this is a must for animal lovers. Judging starts at 1pm—so get those costumes ready!

When: Sunday, 16 February, from 11am
Where: The Laboratory, 17 West Belt, Lincoln
How much: Free

More details here.

Free Nutri-Play Workshop

Put on a detective hat and get ready to uncover hidden sugars in everyday foods. This free workshop is a fun and interactive way for children under six and their caregivers to learn about nutrition. Led by Ara Nutrition students Alexis Beynon and Chloe Scoble, little detectives will investigate where sugar hides, how it affects the body, and create a nutritious snack.

Before the workshop, kids can enjoy soft play at Cowles Stadium, with time for caregivers to chat with the nutrition facilitators. Spaces are limited, so registration is essential.

When: Sunday, 16 February, 10am-12pm
Where: Cowles Stadium, 220 Pages Rd, Wainoni, Christchurch
Cost: Free (registration required). Book here.

More details here.

Share this:

About the author

Picture of Lexi Davey

Lexi Davey

New to Christchurch with two kids and a dog, founder of nook, Lexi, has been hunting for family-friendly activities and unique things to do in the city since moving from Hong Kong in 2022. Finding herself endlessly Googling the same old articles, only to come up empty-handed, Lexi wanted to create a platform where parents across New Zealand could scroll with their morning coffee and be inspired to get out and explore (toddlers in tow).

Related posts

What’s On for Kids This Weekend: Lucky’s Bouncy Castles Jump Into Fun Session, Hororata Highland Games and more

Free Pregnancy Tests in Christchurch: Where to Go and What to Expect

nook NZ’s Toddler & Preschooler Christmas Gift Guide 2025

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Like what you see? We’d love to share even more with you! Sign up for our weekly newsletter where we’ll be clueing you in on the newest family finds, straight to your inbox.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Like what you see? We’d love to share even more with you! Sign up for our weekly newsletter where we’ll be clueing you in on the newest family finds, straight to your inbox.