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Make memories this weekend

31 January 2025

Take to the skies at Kite Day, see the World Buskers Festival on its final weekend or picnic to the sounds of a ten-piece band at the Botanic Gardens as Ōtautahi turns up the heat in February.

Kite Day 2025

Come fly with us at New Brighton Beach! Grab your kite, pack a picnic and get ready for a fun day out as Kite Day returns to brighten the skies of the seaside suburb.

There will be competitions, games, and more to keep you entertained. No kite? No problem! The Kite Shop and Youth Alive Trust will be selling kites on the day.

Make a day of it with a yummy picnic or get lunch from a local New Brighton café. Mr Whippy will also be on-site, and Youth Alive Trust will be selling candyfloss.

Summer Sundays – Movie Tunes

Grab your picnic blanket, friends and whānau, and head to the Archery Lawn at the Botanic Gardens this weekend for the first Summer Sundays concert of the season!

The theme is Movie Tunes, and puts the spotlight on music from the 1980 hit film The Blues Brothers, showcased by 10-piece local band Capitol City.

The powerhouse local act will cover songs like ‘Everybody Needs Somebody to Love’ and Aretha Franklin’s iconic ‘Think’.

Summer Sundays is an all-ages, free event. Picnics are encouraged, but please no glass. Find more information about each concert, and the featured acts, at What’s On.

World Buskers Festival

It’s the final weekend for the fabulous World Buskers Festival ! Don’t miss out on seeing some of the best street performers in the whole wide world right here in our own back yard!

See acrobatics and circus acts, comedy and cabaret. Take your pick of eight locations around the central city, including the Bridge of Remembrance, Scott Statue, Cathedral Square and The North Quad. There’s ticketed shows as well. Check the festival website for full schedule.

Celebration of Culture at Tūranga

Head to Tūranga in Cathedral Square on Saturday for a spectacular display of colours, costumes, music and performances to welcome the Year of the Snake.

You’re welcome to come in your traditional clothing and enjoy traditional crafts and activities after the show.

All are welcome at this free event, 1pm-4pm on Saturday.

Tavendale New Zealand Nationals Jumping and Showhunter

See the top riders in the country compete for national show jumping titles at the National Equestrian Centre at McLeans Island this weekend.

The competition culminates with the championship finals on Sunday. Entry is free and there’s a range of trade stands and plenty of food and drink vendors. Saturday 8.30am – 5pm and Sunday 8.30am – 3pm.