Activities
21 October 2026
Best things to do in Christchurch this week
Discover the best things to do in Christchurch this week, from events and festivals to family-friendly activities, live entertainment, sporting fixtures and more.
What are the best things to do in Christchurch this week?
Looking for the best things to do in Christchurch this week?
Discover upcoming events, activities and experiences across Ōtautahi, from family-friendly outings and live entertainment to sporting fixtures, arts, culture and outdoor adventures.
Check back each week for fresh ideas and the latest happenings around the city.
Visit our What's on page for a comprehensive guide to events happening in Christchurch over the coming months.
Best things to do in Christchurch over the next two weeks at a glance
🎟 Best free event – Great Canterbury Duck Race
👨👩👧👦 Best for families – Riverside Halloween event & Halloween Mākete at The Arts Centre
🚲 Best outdoor event – Biketober Christchurch
🏉 Best sporting event – Black Ferns v France
🎶 Best for arts & culture – PRINS at the Christchurch Town Hall
🧁 Best for foodies – Christchurch Breweries Festival 2026
💷 Best budget-friendly event – Ōtautahi Preloved Clothing Market
26 October - 1 November 2026
What is the best outdoor event this week in Christchurch?
Biketober
When: Until 31 October
Where: Various locations across the city
The month-long festival of cycling in Christchurch has a few final days of events remaining for the rest of October. You can check the complete schedule, upcoming rides, and register for remaining activities directly on the Biketober Christchurch Calendar.
Vibe: Great for people of all ages and abilities with a range of rides to suit different confidence levels.
What are the best events for families in Christchurch this week?
Halloween Mākete at The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora
When: Friday 30 October and Saturday 31 October, 4.00pm–9.00pm
Where: Market Square, The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora
Get into the Halloween spirit at this special evening market featuring more than 60 local makers, artists and creatives. Browse unique stalls, grab dinner from food trucks, enjoy live entertainment and face painting, and soak up the spooky atmosphere among the historic buildings of The Arts Centre.
Vibe: Great for families, costume lovers and anyone looking for a fun Halloween night out filled with local creativity and festive atmosphere.
Trick or Treat at Riverside Market
When: Saturday 31 October 2026, 10.00am - 1.00pm
Where: Riverside Market
Your ticket includes a Trick or Treat Pack with a treat bag, Halloween map, stamp card and 10 varieties of lollies.
Follow the map to participating stalls, collect treats, and keep an eye out for best dressed spot prizes and the Halloween photo comp.
Vibe: Great for kids and families, with short session times and a central city location.
What are the best free & budget-friendly events this week in Christchurch?
Great Canterbury Duck Race
When: Sunday 1 November 2026, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Where: Avon River, from the Bridge of Remembrance to Hereford Street Bridge
Cheer on hundreds of racing ducks as they make their way down the Avon River at this much-loved Christchurch fundraiser. Alongside the action on the water, enjoy family activities, entertainment and a community barbecue.
Vibe: Great for all ages, with plenty of family fun, entertainment and good-natured competition.
Ōtautahi Preloved Clothing Market
When: Saturday 31 October 2026, 10am - 2pm
Where: Bush Inn Shopping Centre
Browse racks of pre-loved fashion and discover unique finds while supporting more sustainable shopping. A popular community market showcasing quality second-hand clothing and accessories.
Vibe: Great for sustainable shoppers, bargain hunters and anyone looking to uncover unique additions to their wardrobe.
What is the best arts & culture event this week in Christchurch?
Public Backstage Tours at The Court Theatre
When: Saturday 31 October 2026, 2pm
Where: The Court Theatre
Go behind the scenes and discover how productions come to life at one of Christchurch's leading performing arts venues. These guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of theatre-making.
Vibe: Great for theatre lovers, curious minds and anyone who's ever wondered what happens behind the curtain.
What is the best sporting event on in Christchurch this week?
Black Ferns v France
When: Saturday 31 October 2026, 7.05pm
Where: One New Zealand Stadium
See the world champion Black Ferns return to Christchurch for a blockbuster international clash against France. Expect a fast-paced contest as two of the world's leading teams go head-to-head.
Vibe: Great for families, rugby supporters and anyone keen to see world-class sporting action in Christchurch.
What is the best evening & nightlife event in Christchurch this week?
Halloween at Rambler
When: Saturday 31 October 2026, 8.00pm - 12.00am
Where: Rambler Christchurch, 96 Lichfield Street
Booteek’s SPOOK: VAMP brings performers, DJs and vampire vibes for a late-night Halloween party in the central city.
Vibe: More of an adults’ night out, with dress-ups and dancefloor.
2 - 8 November 2026
What are the best arts & culture events on in Christchurch next week?
Jewellery making in 6 weeks: Monday beginner's block
When: Monday 2 November, 5.30pm - 8.00pm
Where: Workspace Studios, 49 Ferry Road, Christchurch
Learn the fundamentals of jewellery-making in this beginner-friendly six-week course. You'll work through guided projects, develop practical skills and create your own pieces in a supportive studio environment.
Vibe: Great for creative types, crafty beginners and anyone keen to learn a new skill
PRINS at the Christchurch Town Hall
When: Saturday 7 November, 7.00pm - 9.00pm
Where: Christchurch Town Hall
Emerging pop artist PRINS brings her biggest Christchurch headline show to date, showcasing tracks from her bold new era, MESSY, YOUNG & ABLE. Expect powerful vocals, infectious energy and a night of homegrown talent.
Vibe: Great for music lovers who enjoy discovering bold new artists and high-energy live performances.
Greg Johnson at the Christchurch Town Hall
When: Sunday 8 November, 8.00pm–11.00pm
Where: Christchurch Town Hall
One of New Zealand's most celebrated singer-songwriters returns to the stage to mark his 60th birthday. The special performance will feature fan favourites from across his career alongside newer material.
Vibe: Perfect for fans of Kiwi music and anyone keen for a nostalgic night of singalong favourites.
What is the best foodie event happening next week?
Christchurch Breweries Festival 2026
When: Saturday 7 November 2026, 12.00pm - 9.00pm
Where: Volstead Trading Company, 55 Riccarton Road, Christchurch
Sample beers from breweries across the Christchurch region at this celebration of the local craft brewing scene. Alongside plenty of brews to try, expect live music, great food and a lively atmosphere as beer lovers gather for the festival's third edition. Ticket holders receive a festival glass and beer tokens to get started.
Vibe: Great for craft beer enthusiasts, food lovers and anyone looking for a relaxed afternoon of local flavours and live music.
New Zealand Cup Week at Riccarton Park
When: Saturday 7 November - Saturday 14 November 2026
Where: Riccarton Park, Christchurch
A highlight of Canterbury's spring calendar, New Zealand Cup Week brings together top thoroughbred racing, fashion, food and entertainment. During this period, Barneswood Farm NZ 1000 Guineas Day takes place on Saturday 7 November.
Vibe: Great for racing fans, social butterflies and anyone looking to soak up a classic Canterbury spring tradition.
Frequently asked questions about events in Christchurch
Can I book Christchurch events at the last minute?
Many Christchurch events and activities still have availability close to the event date, but popular performances, sporting fixtures and special events can sell out. It's best to check availability and book tickets online in advance where possible.
How do I find last-minute things to do in Christchurch?
The easiest way to find last-minute activities is to check event listings via our What's on page for the latest concerts, markets, festivals, sporting events, exhibitions and family-friendly activities happening across the city.
You can also use our Ask Ōtautahi chatbot for a list of events or events in areas of interest, or categories of interest to you.
How do I get to events in Christchurch?
Many Christchurch event venues are located in the central city and are accessible by car, bus, bike or on foot. Public transport and cycling are convenient options for reaching popular venues, while larger events may offer additional transport information on their event pages.
Visit our getting around page for more information about different options to move around the city with ease.
Is parking available at Christchurch events?
Parking options vary by venue. Many central city events have nearby parking buildings, street parking or private car parks available. Visitors should check event and venue information before travelling, especially for major events that may attract large crowds.
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