Things to do  |  28 Jan 2022

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If the shift to the Red light setting has upset your weekend plans, we’ve got some ideas to keep you and your family entertained over what is forecast to be a hot weekend.

Roto Kohatu Reserve

Cool off at Roto Kohatu Reserve. Located in the north of the city, Roto Kohatu Reserve is made up of two freshwater lakes that offer a range of fun activities including swimming, dragon boating, sailing and jet skiing. Take an easy stroll around the Lake Circuit walk, a 2km walk past Lake Tahi and around Lake Rua or bring your togs and cool down with a dip in Lake Rua.

Access to Roto Kohatu is off Sawyers Arms Road and gates are open between 7am and 9pm.

Manu competition

Show off your skills on Sunday at midday at Te Pou Toetoe: Linwood pool as part of our manu competition. As one of six heats being held over the summer, there are four categories to give people the opportunity to show their best manu (under 13’s, 13 to 18 years, open female and adult). At the end of the competition season, the top three queens or kings of the manu will be awarded an official trophy and prizes. Spot prizes will also be distributed throughout the competition.

Summer pool party

Join us for our end of holidays Summer Pool Party, at Te Hāpua Halswell Summer Pool on Sunday 30 January for some epic fun including slides, bouncy castles and other activities. See the holidays out with a bang!

Cool off and kick back from 12pm to 5pm as we celebrate summer. Normal pool entry prices apply.

Take the family to visit Quail Island this weekend

Quail Island  & the Lyttelton Harbour bays

If you’re wanting a little adventure this weekend, don’t forget the beautiful Bays that are right on our doorstep. A short drive from Lytellton Harbour lies an assortment of wonderful spots to take your picnic. Take your pick from picturesque Rapaki Bay, famous Governors Bay or find the perfect swimming spot at Le Bons Bay.

For something a bit different, Quail Island, which sits in the middle of Lyttelton Harbour offers visitors the chance to find out more about its colourful history, including being the site of New Zealand’s only leper colony. Only a short ferry ride away from Lytellton, take a walk around Quail Island and discover new swimming beaches, learn about the work restoring native vegetation and keep an eye out for native birds including the fantail, kingfisher, silvereye and many sea birds, including the rare white flippered little blue penguins.

Visit your local library

If you want to escape the heat, why not visit your local library. With over 900 free or low cost events being held inside and outside libraries across Christchurch, they offer something for all ages. There is a wide range of activities to take part in, with events ranging from stories in the sun and craft-making to story walks and Minecraft fun.

Find out what’s on offer in your area here.

Vegan night Mākete

If you’ve worked up an appetite on Saturday and are looking for a feed, head to the Vegan Night Mākete which is still going ahead under the red traffic light setting. Come along and support the stallholders who showcase the best of local plant-based foods and goods. From desserts and yummy treats to a range of delicious meals from around the world including Thailand, Indonesia and Poland, there is something for everyone. Held at the Phillipstown Community Hub from 5pm to 8pm. More information here.