Things to do  |  Yesterday

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Music in the Gardens, a pool party and the Buskers Festival - here's your low cost guide to the weekend in Christchurch.

Summer Sundays

Gather up your friends and whānau and head to the Botanic Gardens this weekend as Summer Sundays gets underway with two incredible tribute bands.

The music of legendary rock bands Fleetwood Mac and The Rolling Stones will be brought to life in two high-energy sets from 1-4pm on Sunday 1 February. Picnic food, drinks and chairs are welcome – no glass, please.

Pool Party – Summer Sports Day

Grab your friends and whānau, pack your togs, towel and sunscreen and splash into the final pool party of the season! Get ready for the ultimate summer sports day pool party with a GIANT lineup of inflatables – think obstacle courses, the inflatable Gladiator, Bull Rush bouncy castles, and an inflatable basketball hoop. Plus, sports fans can meet their favourite Rams and Tactix players, and sweet treat lovers can enjoy a free ice cream, courtesy of our friends at Streets.

We’ve even got our Manu Competition Grand Finale happening – it’s a day packed with excitement at Jellie Park! Come along from midday to 5pm Saturday.

World Buskers Festival

The World Buskers Festival returns with street performances, comedy, music and circus acts. A vibrant celebration of local and global talent!

It’s time to come and explore another unforgettable summer of comedy, cabaret, circus, and chaos as local legends and global stars transform Ōtautahi into one giant stage. View the full programme of events on at a range of locations this weekend.

The Great Toi Art Adventure

Step into the magical world of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where art and nature come together in the most playful way. Discover awesome sculptures and creative surprises hidden among the trees and gardens.

Collect a trail brochure for the Information Centre and explore the whole trail in one visit or enjoy it in bite-sized pieces, this journey is yours to take at your own pace. Find more information on our website.

Summer in the Styx 2026

Join the Styx Living Laboratory Trust for the annual Summer in the Styx event. Summer in the Styx is an event for the community to come and learn more about the amazing conservation mahi happening in Ōtautahi Christchurch and in particular the Pūharakekenui/Styx River Catchment.

Head to Te Waoku Kahikatea Reserve at 10am Sunday to get involved.