Discover family-friendly events across Canterbury this Waitangi Day, with activities that celebrate culture, history, and community. Keep reading for what’s on this Waitangi Day.
Waitangi Day is a chance to pause, reflect, and remember an important moment in Aotearoa’s history—the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. It’s also a day to come together as a community, to celebrate the rich culture, stories, and connections that make us who we are.
Across Canterbury, there are plenty of family-friendly events where tamariki can soak up history without even realising they’re learning (sneaky, right?). Think kapa haka performances, traditional crafts, live music, markets, and hands-on activities that are as fun as they are meaningful. Here’s what’s on this Waitangi Day to help you plan a day out with the whānau.
Read more: Our Favourite Family-Friendly Markets in Christchurch
What’s on this Waitangi Day:
Waitangi Day 2025 Family Fun Day
A true Waitangi Day tradition! Okains Bay Museum’s Family Fun Day is packed with whānau-friendly activities, from flax weaving and taonga puoro demonstrations to colonial-era printshop fun. There’s live music from Lindon Puffin, children’s entertainment by Natural Magic, and even pizza fresh from the colonial oven. Bring the whole crew for a day of culture, history, and hands-on fun.
When: 9am – 4pm
Where: Okains Bay Māori and Colonial Museum
How much: Free
More details here.
Waitangi Day at the Pop-Up Museum
Celebrate Waitangi Day with creativity and colour! The Canterbury Museum Pop-Up is home to the incredible ‘Wharenui Harikoa’ – a full-sized wharenui crocheted in neon wool. Get inspired and make your own mini version to take home. A fun and unique way for kids to connect with stories woven into the artwork.
When: 10am – 4pm
Where: Canterbury Museum Pop-Up, 66 Gloucester Street
How much: Free
More details here.
Ashley Gorge Family Fun Day
Celebrate Waitangi Day surrounded by nature at the beautiful Ashley Gorge Reserve. Enjoy a day filled with treasure hunts, games, competitions, live music, coffee, candy floss, and plenty of family fun, inspired by the charm of old-fashioned New Year’s Day gatherings.
When: Waitangi Day, 6 February 2025
Where: Ashley Gorge Reserve, 697 Ashley Gorge Road
How much: $10 per car (gate charge)
More details here.
Kaiapoi Waitangi Day Family Celebration
Kaiapoi’s celebration is a vibrant mix of kapa haka, waiata, kai, and whānau-friendly fun. Expect market stalls, food trucks, and plenty of kids’ activities (grab a $10 wristband for all-day access). Network Waitangi Ōtautahi will also be there to answer any Treaty-related questions. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the festivities.
When: 11am – 3pm
Where: Trousselot Park, Kaiapoi
How much: Free (Kids’ activity wristbands $10)
More details here.
Kate Sheppard House – Free Entry on Waitangi Day
A special opportunity to step inside one of New Zealand’s most significant heritage sites. Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House opens its doors for free, giving visitors a glimpse into the home where suffrage history was made. Explore the historic house, wander the gardens, and stand in the very spot where Kate Sheppard received the telegram confirming women’s right to vote.
When: Bookings required
Where: 83 Clyde Road, Christchurch
How much: Free. Make sure to book.
More details here.
Waitangi Day at Arion Farm Park
Animals, pony rides, and free popcorn – what more could the kids want? Arion Farm Park is the perfect spot for a relaxed Waitangi Day outing. Feed the animals, have a cuddle with the friendly farmyard residents, and enjoy a laid-back day.
When: 10am – 3pm
Where: Arion Farm Park, Christchurch
How much: General entry applies (but FREE popcorn!)
More details here.
Waitangi Day at Woodend Beach
A full day of fun by the sea! Woodend Beach’s Waitangi Day celebrations include pony rides, live music from Caught In The Act, and even a Noddy Train. If you fancy making a whole adventure out of it, camping is available too.
When: 9am – 11pm
Where: Woodend Beach
How much: Free
More details here.
Featured image credited to Canterbury Museum via Facebook
