News

What's on this weekend in Christchurch?

8 May 2026

Try your hand at excavation, ride the trains at McLeans Island, enjoy the wonderful tones of Renaissance and Schola Cantorum or eat too many treats at the Dutch Market – there’s plenty to do in Otautahi this weekend.

Ōtautahi Festival of Archaeology

Discover what it takes to be an archaeologist in this hands-on family event!

Try your hand at excavation, take part in archaeology-themed activities and chat with real archaeologists about their artefacts and discoveries.

Kate Sheppard House once again hosts stalls from Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Christchurch Archaeology Project, Archaeological consultants Underground Overground and South Island Archaeology, Canterbury Museum, Riccarton House & Bush, Christchurch City Libraries and the Department of Conservation to offer a fantastic range of archaeology themed activities.

Entry is by koha and open to families and archaeology fans of all ages.

Saturday - 11am to 2pm

Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House
83 Clyde Road
Ilam

Miniature Trains

Big trains, little trains and food! Bring the family down for a fun-filled evening with trains on the miniature and the full-sized Bush railway.

There will also be food and drink trucks for dinner.

Saturday 4pm-9pm

Steam Scene
621 McLeans Island Road
McLeans Island

Bulgarian Folk Dance Classes

It will be hard to wipe the smile off your face as you learn the musical rhythms of Bulgarian folk dance.

Folk Dancing Group OPAS says its dances are not just physical exercise but a means of communication, expressing emotions, sharing positive energy and extending friendship between nations.

Sunday 10am

Scottish Society Hall
136 Caledonian Road St Albans

Musick of Sundrie Kindes

Renaissance and Schola Cantorum are joining forces to present music from the 16th-19th centuries, for voice and instruments including viol, lute, recorder and harpsichord.

Featuring Renaissance early music ensemble, directed by Roger Buckton and the Schola Cantorum choir, conducted by Courtney Hickmott.

Saturday 2pm-3:30pm

St Ninian's Church,
5 Puriri Street
Riccarton

Monthly Dutch Market

From Dutch cheeses and traditional herring to books, crafts, and more.

Everyone is welcome—you don’t have to be Dutch to join the fun. Whether you're curious about Dutch culture, keen to try new foods, or looking to connect with others who share a love for the Netherlands, there’s something here for you.

Sunday 10am-12:30pm

Netherlands Society Cultural Centre
637A Marshland Road