It’s the second week of school holidays but there’s plenty of gaiety still to be had as KidsFest continues.
The annual programme of events aimed at school-aged children runs until Sunday July 21 and features a range of activities across Christchurch, Banks Peninsula, Selwyn and Waimakariri.
Some of the highlights this week include a special market for kids, nighttime nature walks, LEGO play days and have-a-go music lessons.
Rangiora Borough School Kid’s Market
This market day is specially designed by and for kids. They’ll be the stall holders selling their creations, used goods, baking and more – along with a variety of entertainment and a classic sausage sizzle. It’ll be a fantastic morning of creativity and fun at the Rangiora Borough School, 64 Church Street, Friday 19 July, 9am-1pm.
The bush at nightfall becomes a special place because many of our wildlife (and pests!) only come out at night! As darkness falls the natural world transforms into a different place with different smells, sights, and sounds. Then it’s time to light your lanterns and venture out on this self-guided trail at Pūtaringamotu-Riccarton Bush, 5.30-7.30pm daily throughout KidsFest.
Choose from guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, vocals or ukelele, meet with an experienced music tutor and choose one or two instruments to trial a beginner lesson. Small group lessons and all equipment provided! Monday 15 July – Friday 19 July, 9.30am -1pm.
Join our awesome Park Rangers at The Groynes for an afternoon of fun and discovery and learn about the importance of rain, freshwater and waterways like the stunning Ōtukaikino Stream. Thursday 18 July, 1-3pm, bookings essential.
Orana Wildlife Park – Kids Visit for Free
Two kids (5-15) can visit for free with each paying adult throughout KidsFest! Connect with New Zealand’s only gorillas, hand feed giraffe, eyeball mighty rhino, view lions, kiwi, kea, meerkats, monkeys, otter and more.
5000 Trees That Count Whānau Day
Help park rangers transform Waikākāriki-Horseshoe Lake into a beautiful wetland! We'll be planting trees, playing games and making badges as a reward for hard mahi. Come for a fun afternoon out! Friday 19 July, 1-3pm.
From DUPLO to TECHNIC, there's a whole heap of fun, including Friends and Jungle-themed bricks. Happening at West Melton Presbyterian Church Wednesday 17 July 10am-12pm and Darfield Primary School Hall on Friday 19 July, 10am-12pm.
Browse the full list of activities at KidsFest