Our pick of family-friendly events from 31 May – 3 June 2024. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend…
The long weekend is finally here, and there are plenty of free activities to get stuck into with the family. From the much-awaited Glow in the Park in Ashburton to foraging for fungi and touring a converted Boeing 727, 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:
Ashburton Glow in the Park 2024
Glow in the Park is back for 2024! Held over the King’s Birthday weekend, head to Ashburton Domain for a spectacular display of glowing colours and fun, family-friendly activities. This free event promises three nights of lights, food and fun, including light displays, rides, and local eats. A special low-sensory session will take place on Sunday evening.
When: Friday, 31 May – Sunday, 2 June, 5.30-9pm
Where: Ashburton Domain, 59 Philip Street, Ashburton
How much: Free
More details here.
CSO Music Trails
Free to attend, no bookings required, join the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra as they travel Christchurch’s libraries in this series of fun, 45-minute performances. Expect songs, dancing and storytelling in an event specially created for those ages 2 – 6.
When: Friday, 31 May, 10:30-11.15am
Where: Papanui Library, 35 Langdons Road, Papanui, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
Heritage Stargazing at The Arts Centre
Take the littles stargazing every Friday during winter at The Arts Centre. This 30-minute tour of the Observatory Tower includes a peek through the historic Townsend Teece Telescope where you’ll be able to view the moon, planets, and star clusters, including the stunningly colourful Jewel Box star cluster.
When: Friday, 31 May, 7.30-9.30pm
Where: The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch
How much: Bookings are essential and cost $10 per adult and $5 for children ages 5-17. Your little one must be able to climb 75 steep stairs and be comfortable in confined spaces as there is no lift available.
More details here.
Greyhound Meet & Greet at Barefoot Eatery
The Welder’s Barefoot Eatery is hosting a ‘Meet & Greet’ along with Greyhounds as Pets NZ to show off their adorable Greyhounds looking for their forever homes. Grab some delicious treats and cuddle while you learn to adopt or foster one of these perfect pups.
When: Saturday, 1 June, 10-1pm
Where: Barefoot Eatery, 20 Welles Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
How much: Free
More details here.
Foraging Walk: Fungi Edition
This family-orientated foraging walk is the perfect opportunity to learn about fungi and visit Richmond Community Garden’s Fungi Farm. The farm is an explorative space for all ages and features “multiple species of edible native and exotic mushrooms for foragers, over 33 hand-carved mushroom sculptures, and other art installations by local artists.” It’s also a great nature playground for kids!
When: Saturday, 1 June, 10.30-1pm
Where: Richmond Community Garden, 235 River Road, Richmond, Christchurch
How much: There is a suggested koha of $20 or vegetables from your garden if possible.
More details here.
Visit Leeston’s Boeing 727 House
Have a plane-obsessed little on your hands? An ex-RNZAF Boeing 727 Trijet is now spending its later life as an incredible, converted home on a rural property near Leeston – and the homeowners are opening their doors to the public this King’s Birthday weekend. Gates will be open between 10-3pm to fundraise for Ellesmere Hospital.
When: Sunday, 2 June, 10-3pm
Where: 1552 Leeston Road, Selwyn
How much: There is no set entry fee, however, a minimum of a gold coin per person would be appreciated. If the weather turns bad, the viewing will be postponed until Sunday, 9 June.
More details here.
RVFB Community Static Day
Help the Rangiora Volunteer Fire Brigade mark its 150th anniversary on a day packed with exciting activities and community spirit. There will be a static display featuring fire appliances from 1874 to the present day, delicious treats from food stalls, and live fire displays that showcase the bravery and skill of firefighters.
When: Sunday, 2 June, 11-3pm
Where: Rangiora Fire Station, Percival Street, Rangiora
How much: Free
More details here.
Early Childhood Education Fair
This free community fair promotes Early Childhood Education in a day full of fun activities for all ages. Proudly brought to you by the Pacific Early Learning Services and the Ministry of Education, you can expect performances, a dedicated under-5s play area, food stalls, and plenty of information about study and career pathways.
When: Monday, 3 June, 10-3pm
Where: Multicultural Recreation and Community Centre, 455 Hagley Avenue, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
