News

Enjoy the first weekend of summer

5 December 2025

Celebrate the start of summer with a range of festive activities in Christchurch this weekend.

Christmas on the Peace Train

Santa is coming to the Botanic Gardens – on the Peace Train! This Sunday, Santa is (temporarily) trading in his reindeer for an electric engine and taking the wheel of the Peace Train.

Grab a photo with Santa as he makes his festive rounds this Sunday. The train will run for slightly longer, from 10am to 2.30pm, with each trip taking approximately eight minutes.

Jellie Park Summer Pool Party

Grab your friends and whānau, and pack your togs, towel and sunscreen - our summer pool parties are back and you're in for a treat. Dive into a day of fun at Jellie Park this Saturday with slides, inflatables, and our inflatable obstacle course, plus a bouncy castle for kids (and the young at heart). Come along from midday – 5pm, standard pool entry fees apply.

The annual Manu Competition will also be back at Jellie Park from midday – 2pm Saturday. Enter in one of four categories, at the end of the competition season, the top three queens or kings of the manu will be awarded an official trophy and prizes.

Riverside Christmas Craft Market

Get ready for a full-packed market experience at the Riverside Farmers and Christmas Craft Market this weekend. Not only will the Riverside Farmers Market be back out the front, but the Riverside Christmas Crafts Market is also back – proudly organised together with Life in Vacant Spaces at Central Park.

And yes… Santa will be stopping by too! Head down to Riverside Market from 10am – 3pm Sunday.

Sew a gift bag

Join us at Tūranga for a workshop to craft your own fabric gift bags from scratch! Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll gain basic sewing skills in a supportive, relaxed environment. Learn how to turn everyday materials into unique, colourful bags — perfect for gifts or personal use.

You’ll also have a chance to explore our inspiring new collection of sewing books and magazines, with a special focus on bag-making techniques and ideas. No experience necessary. Booking required, $10 fee. Recommended for 18+. On from 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2 – 4pm Saturday.

Festive gift box decorating

Get creative this Christmas with a gift box decorating activity at Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre.
Tamariki are invited to decorate their very own white house–shaped gift box using Christmas stickers, glitter pens, and plenty of imagination.

Once finished, the box makes a perfect festive keepsake — or can be filled with delicious lollies from Mrs Bumbleberry’s Lolly Shop to make a sweet gift for someone special. Come along from 11am – 3pm Saturday, koha donation.