With plenty happening for kids this July, we’re here to help you stay updated with what’s on over the school holidays.
When July rolls around there are suddenly so many events happening that it can be hard to pick and choose which ones suit your family best. A great ‘problem’ to have in our books! However, to help keep it easy, we’re rounding up our favourite events and activities for kids, updating this post as we find cool additions to share with you. Here’s what’s on over the school holidays…
Note: We’ll be updating this article as we see new and exciting events for kids happening in July, however, please note that events sell out quickly and may no longer be available since publication.
Read more: KidsFest 2024: Our Favourite Events for Under-Fives in Christchurch
What’s on over the school holidays:
Create a Music Video for TOCK
If your little one loves singing, dancing and pretending to star in their music video, this month-long campaign could be the perfect school holiday activity to keep kiddos busy over July. Social enterprise, TOCK, is encouraging children across Canterbury and New Zealand to get out into nature and help them to create a fun, environmental education video. TOCK is looking for short videos depicting different lines of lyrics from their “Out in Nature” song, as well as footage for their chorus. Get as creative as you like, and submit your videos before Wednesday, 31 July.
When: Submissions are open from now until Wednesday, 31 July
Where: Out in nature!
How much: Free. There is no fee involved to be a part of the music video. A permission slip by a guardian will need to be signed, however. Email your interest to [email protected] and read more about what’s involved and how to film your video here.
More details here.
Watch “SWEET” Rock Candy Artists at Work
Take the kids along to watch this locally handcrafted rock candy be made in-house, and right in front of your eyes. Holding set times to come along and watch the SWEET artists at work over the school holidays, pop in daily between Tuesday and Saturday at 10am, 12.30pm or 2.30pm and grab some rock candy and hand-made lollipops to take home afterwards.
When: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am , 12.30pm and 2.30pm daily over the July school holidays.
Where: SWEET, 82 Harris Crescent, Papanui Christchurch,
How much: Free
More details here.
Winter Fireworks Spectacular
Kick off the school holidays with a Winter Fireworks Spectacular. Hosted by Christchurch City Council, this event promises a colourful fireworks display synchronised to iconic 80s hits, featuring songs from Queen, Whitney Houston, Bon Jovi, and Talking Heads. Families can enjoy delicious food from local vendors and pre-fireworks entertainment provided by DJZ in the North Carpark. In bad weather, the rescheduled date, if needed, will be Sunday, 7 July.
When: Saturday, 6 July, 5.30-8.30pm
Where: New Brighton Pier, New Brighton
How much: Free to attend
More details here.
Hunt for the Brick People in Darfield
The Darfield Primary School PTA invites families to join the Hunt for the Brick People, a fun activity designed to explore the town of Darfield. Starting Saturday, 6 July, participants can search for ‘Brick People’ in the windows of local businesses until 21 July. Maps are available for $2 from Johnny Fresh and Te Huanui Art Gallery. Complete the word puzzle and return it to one of these locations for a chance to win a family pass to the Darfield Bricktacular 2024 and LEGO prizes. With 47 local businesses participating, this event offers a great way to keep kids engaged and support the community.
When: Saturday, 6 July – Sunday, 21 July, 9-4pm
Where: Across Darfield
How much: $2 for a map
More details here.
MoveX Glow Party
Kiddos will love jumping in MoveX‘s vibrant glow-in-the-dark atmosphere, and yummy food from Azteca Tacos and Hungry Potato Remember, grip socks are required, and children under 14 need a responsible adult to stay and supervise.
When: Saturday, 6 July & Saturday, 20 July, 6-8pm
Where: 230, Maces Road, Bromley
How much: $20
More details here.
Free Craft Sessions with The Make Company
Hosting free crafting sessions over the July school holidays, The Make Company is getting creative in this hands-on, guided session that will see your little ones making their very own fairy or dragon doors and snow globes, complete with floating confetti.
Make a Fairy or Dragon Door
When: Monday, 8 – Friday, 12 July, Sessions run at 10am, 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am and 12pm
Where: Avonhead Shopping Centre, Merrin Street, Avonhead, Christchurch
How much: Free. Registration is required – click here.
More details here.
Make a Wooden Snow Globe
When: Monday, 15 – Friday, 19 July
Where: Dress Smart, 409 Main South Road, Hornby, Christchurch
How much: Free. Registration is required – click here.
More details here.
Build-A-Bear Dinosaur Workshop
Have a dino-obsessed little? Head to Northlands for their ‘Dinosaur Build-A-Bear workshops’ from Monday, 8 July – Friday, 12 July. Kids can create a dinosaur stuffed animal with a heart ceremony and birth certificate. Each child receives a furry dinosaur friend and can enjoy other games and activities. The workshop is open to all ages, with the option to accessorise their dinosaur inside the Build-A-Bear workshop at an additional cost.
When: Monday, 8 July – Friday, 12 July, 10am daily, 11am on Tuesday and Thursday
Where: Northlands Centre Court near BNZ, 55 Main North Road, Papanui, Christchurch
How much: $16. Book here. Clothing and accessories will be available at the Build-A-Bear Workshop store and are not included in the $16 ticket price.
More details here.
Super Hero Workshop
Ballantynes and Crowntastic Events are teaming up for an action-packed morning featuring everyone’s favourite web-slinger, Spider-Man. Young heroes aged 4 and up are invited to unleash their creativity in a Superhero Mask-Making Workshop and join Spider-Man for a meet and greet. Dive into the craft session to design and decorate your mask and transform into a superhero before searching for infinity stones and enjoying themed games. The event kicks off at 10.30am, so don your superhero gear and book fast, as these sessions sell out quickly.
When: Monday, 8 & 15 July, 10.30 – 11.30am
Where: Tearooms, Ballantynes Department StoreCashel Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
How much: $22 per child. Book here.
More details here.
Slime Station
On a mission “to give all young people a chance to be blown away by Science,” Nanogirl Labs is bringing an exciting slime-making event to Barrington Shopping Centre for the first week of the July school holidays. Kids ages 5-12 can embark on a gooey adventure, diving into the science behind slime creation. Each budding scientist will take home a pot of slime.
When: Monday, 8 – Friday, 12 July, 12-1pm
Where: Barrington Shopping Mall, 256 Barrington Street, Spreydon, Christchurch
How much: $7.56. Book here.
More details here.
Read more: Top Birthday Party Entertainers in Christchurch
July School Holiday Fun at Chipmunks
When: Monday, 8 – Friday, 12 July,
Where: Chipmunks Papanui
How much: Activities are free, however standard entry fees apply.
Monday, 8 July: Mask decorating, 9.30-5pm
Tuesday, 9 July: Ice cream decorating, 11-3pm
Wednesday, 10 July: Hourly mini-games, 10-5pm
Thursday, 11 July: Melanie Poppins Face painting and balloon animals, 10-2pm
Friday, 12 July: Visit from Charlie Chipmunk, 10.30am & 2.30pm
Monday, 15 July: Dress up and face painting, 11-2pm
Tuesday, 16 July: Mask decorating, 9.30-5pm
Wednesday, 17 July: Ice cream decorating, 11-3pm
Thursday, 18 July: Hourly mini-games, 10-5pm
Friday, 19 July: Visit from Charlie Chipmunk, 10.30am & 2.30pm
More details here.
Dinosaurs After Dark!
Dinosaur-loving littles won’t be able to contain their excitement as Jurassic Adventure puts on their first after-dark event. “Explore the Raptor Run Maze, play glow-in-the-dark Mini Golf and enjoy character meet and greets,” on two Tuesdays and Thursdays over the school holidays.
When: Tuesday, 9 & 16 July and Thursday, 11 & 18 July, 5.15-7.30pm
Where: Jurassic Adventure, 239A Opawa Road, Hillsborough, Christchurch
How much: $19 per child and per caregiver. Book tickets here.
More details here.
Kids Market 2024
Kids Market at Lincoln Events Centre is the perfect opportunity for children aged 5-15 to buy or sell pre-loved treasures. Gather those unwanted toys, sports gear, and books, and set up a stall to earn a little pocket money over the school holidays. Caregivers are required to join in the fun and support their young entrepreneurs.
When: Tuesday, 9 July, 10-11.30am
Where: Lincoln Event Centre, 15 Meijer Drive, Lincoln
How much: Free to attend.
More details here.
Chris Lynch Presents the Avon and Friends Puppet Show
“Catch the school holiday vibes” at The Palms as Chris Lynch presents the Avon and Friends Puppet Show on Tuesday, 9 and Tuesday, 16 July from 11.30-12.30pm. Located outside Chemist Warehouse, this free puppet show offers an hour of lively entertainment for families and kids. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the playful antics of Avon and Friends.
When: Tuesday, 9 & Tuesday, 16 July, 11.30-12.30pm
Where: Outside Chemist Warehouse, The Palms, Corner Marshland &, New Brighton Road, Shirley, Christchurch
How much: Free. No bookings are required.
More details here.
Slime Making Workshop
Back by popular demand, this event promises a fun-filled school holiday activity for kids aged 5 and up. Participants will learn to make colourful and squishy slimes, mould them into creative shapes, and take home their creations in special containers. This workshop hosted by Ballantynes and Crowntastic Events also features slime-themed games and challenges. Tickets are $22 each, with all materials provided — just bring yourself and wear clothes that can get a little messy. Choose to attend 9.30 – 10.15am or 10.30 – 11.15am.
When: Tuesday, 9 & 16 July, 9.30 – 10.15am or 10.30 – 11.15am
Where: Tearooms, Ballantynes Department StoreCashel Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
How much: $22 per child. Book your ticket here.
More details here.
Play Pals Pop-Up
If you have always wanted to test out Rug Rats‘ great selection of soft play for birthday parties, now is your chance to see what all the buzz is about at their next Play Pals pop-up in Parklands. Tickets to this session sold out quickly last time, so if you don’t want to miss out, book your preschooler in quickly!
When: Tuesday, 9 July, 10-11am
Where: Parklands Baptist Community Church, 180 Queenspark Drive, Parklands
How much: $16, additional siblings from the same family are $5 per child. Non-mobile babies are free. Book here.
More details here.
Read more: The Best Soft Play Hire Companies in Christchurch
Music with Michal
If you’re looking for a fun, upbeat and interactive music show – this is it. Music With Michal is designed for young children to get up, sing and dance in a 45-minute session featuring Michal’s hit songs and children’s classics.
When: Wednesday, 10 – Thursday, 11 July, 10-10.45am
Where: Great Hall, The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch
How much: $5 per child (under 1 year are free); caregivers $10. Book tickets here.
More details here.
Costume Competition at Telling Tales
Dress as your favourite book character or in your most exciting costume for the chance to win prizes during a morning of fun-filled activities.
When: Wednesday, 10 July, 10-11am
Where: Telling Tales, 101 Cashel Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
How much: Free. No bookings required
More details here.
Catch the School Holiday Vibes: Friendship Bracelet Making
Searching for something fun to do during the July school holidays? Join Crowntastic Events at The Palms on Wednesday, the 10th or Wednesday, the 17th of July for a 70s-inspired friendship bracelet-making session. Located outside Farmers, this free activity is a great way for kids to get creative and create cute jewellery to keep or share with friends. Each 30-minute session can accommodate up to 15 children and will run from 10.30 am to 2.30pm. No booking is required—just come early to grab your spot so you don’t miss out.
When: Wednesday 10 & Wednesday, 17 July 10.30-2.30pm
Where: Outside Farmers, The Palms, Corner Marshland &, New Brighton Road, Shirley, Christchurch
How much: Free. No bookings are required.
More details here.
Mini Explorers: Guided Trail of Riccarton House
Perfect for those aged 3 -10 years old Mini Explorers is back at Riccarton Bush over the July school holidays! Mini adventurers will don their explorer hats, grab a magnifying glass and take a closer look at the cool and interesting things hiding inside Riccarton House. All explorers will be treated to a free fluffy from The Quarters Cafe.
When: Wednesday, 10 & 17 July and Friday 12 &19 July, 12-12.30-pm
Where: Riccarton House & Bush, 16 Kahu Road, Fendalton, Christchurch
How much: $5 per child and $5 per attending caregiver. Maximum of 15 children per group, no bookings required.
More details here.
Paper Jam Contemporary Collage Workshop: Bring the Kiddos Special
This two-hour Paper Jam session is packed full of fun and creativity, allowing everyone to make unique artwork with no rules. The studio will be filled with a variety of materials, and a team will be there to guide and help if needed. No art experience is required, making this perfect for all skill levels. Enjoy light refreshments and quality time with your kids while creating something special.
When: Wednesday, 10, Friday, 12, Monday, 15, & Wednesday, 17 July, 1-3pm
Where: Paper Jam. 35 Ranfurly Street, Kaiapoi
How much: Children are $25 each and a parent or caregiver can collage for free. Book tickets here.
More details here.
Craft Class at Glenlothian Farm
Open for the school holidays Wednesday, 10 – Sunday, 14 July and Wednesday, 17 – Sunday, 21 July, kids will love feeding Glenlothian’s animals, including two new twin baby goats. In between all of the farm fun, stay for a unique button craft class on Thursday, 11 & Saturday, 13 July, 12.30-3pm.
When: Thursday, 11 & Saturday, 13 July, 12.30-3pm
Where: 52 Lawford Road, West Melton
How much: Children $25; adults $30. Direct message Glenlothian Farm to book the craft class.
More details here.
Broken Toy Mashup
Round up those broken toys, missing parts and retired dolls to bring them with you to a crafting session that will breathe new life into old favourites by creating a funky new creation. This free event will provide the materials needed as well as afternoon tea.
When: Thursday, 11 & Sunday, 14 July, 2-4pm
Where: Shirley Community Centre, 17 Acheson Ave, Shirley
How much: Free. Materials and afternoon tea are provided.
More details here.
Sienna Blair Pop-Up Sale
Fans of the gorgeous clothing brand, Sienna Blair, will want to mark their calendars to attend Addy & Lou‘s special pop-up event featuring new season samples and goodies. Take your tot along and shop for some bargains then grab a coffee and fluffy at their in-house cafe.
When: Thursday, 11 – Friday, 12 July, 10-2pm
Where: Addy & Lou, 12 Battersea Street, Sydenham, Christchurch
How much: Free to attend.
More details here.
Tactile Tamariki School Holiday Pop-Up Sessions
Run by two ECE mums in Selwyn, Tactile Tamariki runs unique sensory learning-based pop-up sessions – and they are back over the July school holidays! Hosting two themed classes, Winter Wonderland on Friday 12, July and Colours of the Rainbow on Monday, 15 July, you’ll want to get in quickly as spaces are limited and sure to be popular with sensory-loving littles.
When: Friday, 12 July & Monday, 15 July 10-11am
Where: Rolleston Community Centre, 94 Rolleston Drive, Rolleston
How much: $15 per child. Get in touch via Facebook or Instagram to secure your spot.
More details here.
Read more: The Best Messy and Sensory Play Classes in Christchurch
Christchurch Brick Show 2024
Christchurch Brick Show is back for 2024, a must-visit event for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages. Held at Woldbrook Arena, expect incredible LEGO displays, interactive building zones, and fun activities for the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting, be inspired by the creativity and imagination on display.
When: Saturday 13 July – Sunday 14 July, 9-5pm
Where: Wolfbrook Christchurch Arena, 55 Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, Christchurch
How much: $6 per child and caregiver. Children under 2 are free. Book here.
More details here.
Natural Magic Pirate Shows
Join your favourite pirate duo in a morning of puppet and music shows over the school holidays at Rangiora Baptist Church. These fun, pirate-themed performances are split into two; opt for just the puppet show (30 minutes), or the music show (45 minutes) or stay for both!
When: Saturday, 13 July, 10-12pm
Where: Rangiora Baptist Church, 111 East Belt, Rangiora
How much: $6.70 per child for the puppet show; and $10.38 for the music show. Book here.
More details here.
Build-A-Bear Workshop at The Crossing
Join Build-A-Bear for an unforgettable school holiday experience on The Crossing’s Airbridge. Running from 15-18 July 2024, with five sessions per day, these $10 workshops offer children the perfect opportunity to create their very own furry friend. The one-hour workshop includes a pre-stuffed furry friend, a birth certificate signing, the signature BABW Heart Ceremony, fun games and activities, and the chance to purchase additional clothing and accessories for the bears. Tickets are required to attend any session, so don’t miss out as these workshops sell out quickly.
When: Monday, 15 July – Thursday, 18 July
Where: The Crossing, 166 Cashel Street, Christchurch Central City
How much: $10
More details here.
Lil Brew Treasure Trail
The Lil Brew is putting on another ‘Treasure Trail” to help get kids out and about over the school holidays. Between Monday, 15 and Friday, 19 July, find painted stones along the Coastal Pathway and bring one back to the cafe to redeem a prize. Scattered along the path from opposite Barnett Park
right down to the Sumner Surf Club, jump on the bikes, load up the scooters and finish with a hot cup of coffee or chocolate.
When: Monday, 15 – Friday, 19 July
Where: 186a Main Road, Redcliffs, Christchurch
How much: Free
More details here.
Super Herobics – Fitness for Heroes & Heroines
Train like your favourite heroes by soaring like Iron Man, leaping like Black Panther, and swinging like Spider-Man in our thrilling obstacle circuit. Conquer challenges, dodge villains, and jump over Kryptonite. Join the Superhero Freeze Dance Party to dance to epic tunes and strike heroic poses.
When: Tuesday, 16 July, 1-2pm
Where: West Melton Community Centre, 1163 West Coast Road, West Melton
How much: $3 per child. Book here.
More details here.
Bouncy Castle Fun Day
Kids love a bouncy castle, so this fun day out at Selwyn Sports Centre is a guaranteed great day out over the school holidays. From 10-3pm on Wednesday, 17 July, tickets cost $5 per child and include unlimited bouncing, cool items and more.
When: Wednesday 17 July, 10-3pm
Where: Selwyn Sports Centre, 70 Broadlands Drive, Rolleston
How much: $5 per child, free for caregivers
More details here.
Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre Aquatic Class and Pool Party
Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre is making a splash with its safari-themed kids’ aqua class and pool party over the school holidays. The class runs from 12.30-1pm, followed by a lively pool party from 1-3pm.
When: Thursday, 18 July, 12.30-3pm
Where: Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre, 9 Cass Street, Kaiapoi
How much: Child $4.20; Adult $7.40
More details here.
Sing, Move, Create
Join Seedlings Music Therapy, The Creative Club, and Music with Michal for a calming, interactive event designed for littles up to 10 years old. The session begins with an art exploration followed by a guided mindful movement practice. Kids will then enjoy a fun sing-along and conclude with a soothing musical meditation. This event offers a great opportunity for children to engage in creative and mindful activities in a supportive environment.
When: Saturday 20 July, 10- 10.45am
Where: Tūranga, 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
How much: $4 per child and per caregiver. Book here.
More details here.
Under the Sea Collage Class at Periwinkle
Join a fun and creative “Under the Sea” collage class, perfect for boys and girls! Kids can create a unique and colourful collage featuring cute sea creatures, boats, and treasure chests. All materials are supplied.
When: Thursday, 18 July, 1-2.15pm
Where: 98 High Street, Leeston
How much: $29.50. Book here.
More details here.
Dress for change: Tour and Craft
Explore the former home of Kate Sheppard with an engaging kid-friendly tour, perfect for children aged 8 to 12. Learn about her fight for equality and how she convinced politicians to give women the vote. Kiddos can peek into cupboards, find interesting facts, and even learn about the challenges of riding a bike in a long skirt! After the tour, children can design and take home a peg doll, reflecting their expression.
When: Saturday, July 20 · 11-12:30pm
Where: Kate Sheppard House, 83 Clyde Road, Ilam, Christchurch
How much: $8. Book here.
More details here.
Do you know of a cool event that we haven’t listed or would like to know more about how your event could be included? Send an email to [email protected]
Featured image courtesy of Pexels, image #1 credited to MoveX via Facebook, #2 Image credited to Jurassic Adventure via Facebook, image #3 credited to Music with Michal via Facebook. Facebook, image #4 courtesy of The Crossing
