Our pick of family-friendly events from 19 – 21 September 2025. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch…
Spring weekends in Christchurch are when the city really shows off. Flowers are blooming, the sun hangs around a little longer, and suddenly every corner has something fun for families to get stuck into. This weekend is no exception, with fairy wings, pirate puppets, markets galore, a kite festival and even an island treasure hunt on the line-up. Whether you’ve got kids who love crafts, sweet treats, or running wild outdoors, there’s plenty to keep them entertained (and hopefully wear them out). Grab the diary, rally the whānau, and take your pick from the best family-friendly events happening in Christchurch.
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids this weekend:
A fairy experience
Wings, wands and a sprinkle of magic. Kids can have their faces painted, craft their own wand, watch a fairy show, then meet the fairies themselves. There are even kids’ markets and free fairy flower wreaths for those who arrive in costume.
When: Saturday 20 September, 9.30–11.30am
Where: Blossom Garden, outside Chemist Warehouse, The Palms
How much: Free
More details here.
Pirate and fairies day at the seaside
Brighton turns whimsical with pirates, puppets, fairies and a piñata. Add in storytelling, a best-dressed competition, music and plenty of silliness for the kids.
When: Saturday 20 September, 10am–2pm
Where: Brighton Mall, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
Pre-loved babies and children’s clothing sale
Fill your bags with kids’ clothes, toys and maternity wear, all for $1 each. A coffee cart and sausage sizzle keep parents happy while raising funds for the Opawa St Martins Plunket Toy Library.
When: Saturday 20 September, 9am–12pm
Where: Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto, 84 Sandwich Rd, Christchurch
How much: $2 per family entry
More details here.
Shirley Spring Market
Coffee, food, clothes, plants, gifts and crafts. Add a bouncy castle and face painting, and you’ve got a local market that ticks every family box.
When: Saturday 20 September, 10am–1pm
Where: Neighbourhood Centre, 17 Acheson Avenue, Mairehau
How much: Free
More details here.
Ōtautahi Crafters Market Spring Market
Over 150 local makers, 23 preloved clothing stalls, and 600 tote bags up for grabs. A creative wonderland for families who love a good browse and something unique to take home.
When: Saturday 20 September, 10am–5pm
Where: South City Shopping Centre, 555 Colombo Street, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
Gem Show 2025
Crystals, gems, kids’ competitions, raffles and a “chucky trailer” of treasures. A must for mini rock hounds and curious kids.
When: Saturday 20 – Sunday 21 September, 10am–4pm
Where: Canterbury Mineral and Lapidary Club, 110 Waltham Road, Sydenham
How much: Gold coin entry, under 16s free
More details here.
Korea Day 2025
Celebrate Korean culture with food, stalls, cultural booths and a special performance by the Incheon City Dance Theatre. A colourful afternoon out for the family.
When: Saturday 20 September, 3pm–7.30pm
Where: Christchurch Town Hall, 86 Kilmore Street
How much: Free
More details here.
Lolly Trail
The Arts Centre turns sweet with six lolly-themed stations. Complete the trail, collect stamps, and swap them for a bag of lollies from Mrs Bumbleberry’s shop.
When: Saturday 20 – Friday 26 September, 10.30am–3.30pm
Where: The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
Quail Island Pirate Hunt
Catch the ferry, grab a treasure map and hunt down the pirates’ lost tools scattered across the island. Rewards include chocolate treasure and plenty of fresh air.
When: Saturday 20 September – Sunday 5 October, 9.30am–3pm
Where: Quail Island, Lyttelton
How much: $20 (includes ferry)
More details here.
Rabbits and bears and deer, oh my!
Pick up a free trail booklet and uncover the quirky history of the old zoo at the Botanic Gardens. Puzzles, clues and forgotten stories bring the gardens to life.
When: Saturday 20 September – Sunday 12 October, 10am–5pm
Where: Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Rolleston Avenue
How much: Free
More details here.
Messy Mates Play Studio Grand Opening
Messy play, sensory rooms, sandpits and more. The country’s very first Messy Mates studio opens in Hornby and kids can explore all the play stations.
When: Sunday 21 September, 11.15am–3pm
Where: The Hub Hornby Mall, Christchurch
How much: $15
More details here.
Christchurch Kite Flying Festival
Bexley Park will be buzzing with colourful kites, live music, food stalls, games and face painting. Bring your own kite or grab one there and join the skies.
When: Sunday 21 September, 10am–5pm
Where: Bexley Park, Pages Road, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
