Things to do  |  11 Mar 2021

Dig into autumn at Grow Ōtautahi or celebrate our multicultural community across the city. On a special day, take the time to remember those we have lost.

Grow Ōtautahi Garden Festival

Head to the Botanic Gardens this weekend for the Grow Ōtautahi Christchurch Garden Festival.

The free, three-day festival draws on the region’s love of gardens, creativity, innovation and design, running from Friday 12 March through until Sunday 14 March, 9am to 5pm.

Wander among the exhibits, learn more about gardening and design, enjoy cooking demonstrations and head to the kids’ zone for tree-climbing fun.

National Remembrance Service

The second anniversary of the mosque attacks will be marked with a National Remembrance Service, Ko Tātou, Tātou We Are One, at Christchurch Arena on Saturday.

The service, which starts at 3pm, offers an opportunity to unite to show support for our communities.

Entry is free but bookings are required. The service will also be streamed live.

Crusaders versus Chiefs

The Crusaders host the Chiefs in a Super Rugby clash at Orangetheory Stadium on Saturday night.

Kick-off is set for 7.05pm. Book tickets online.

Canterbury Polyfest

Canterbury Polyfest marks its 21st anniversary on Saturday, with a showcase of Pasifika culture featuring secondary school students. Head to the red zone in Dallington to enjoy Pasifika dance, food and handicrafts from 9.30am to 5pm.

New Brighton Duke Festival of Surfing

Surf’s up for The Ray White New Brighton Duke Festival of Surfing this weekend.

The three-day event, which starts on Friday, features a surfing competition, a free outdoor movie night, music, surfboard and art exhibitions and a skate competition. Head to New Brighton for a feast of festival fun.

PRIDE Week

Celebrate PRIDE Week in Christchurch, with a host of activities around the city.

From stunning shows and a big party to a variety fun day and a dog walk, there are plenty of chances to join in the celebration.

Hello Hornby

Join the free Hello Hornby community party at Wycola Park on Saturday from noon to 3pm.

Bring the family and enjoy games, activities, competitions, entertainment and food.

Connect 2021

Connect with your community in Harrington Park in Riccarton on Sunday from 3pm to 5pm.

A free, family friendly event, Connect 2021 includes pedalmania, cricket, a giant Jenga and a smoothie bike, along with a tug-of-war and plenty of food to suit all tastes.

Twin Rivers Motoring Extravaganza

Power up for the Twin Rivers Motoring Extravaganza in Canterbury Agricultural Park on Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

Up to 600 classic cars will be on display, and there will also be live music, entertainment and food.

A charity fundraiser, entry costs $20.

CSO: Tūrangawaewae

To mark the 10th anniversary of the February 2011 earthquakes, the CSO Lamb & Hayward Masterworks will premiere a new work, Resilience – A symphonic diary of a difficult decadeby local composer Philip Norman at the Christchurch Town Hall on Saturday night.

The evening will include Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini – with pianist Michael Endres – and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 1. Book online.

The Nifty Markets x Isaac Theatre Royal

Check out The Nifty Market at the Isaac Theatre Royal on Friday from 5pm. There will be pre-loved and vintage clothing, music and a guided tour behind the scenes. Entry by gold coin.

Lazy Sundays

Enjoy this season’s final Ben & Jerry’s Lazy Sundays show featuring One Waka, Run 77, Hannah and The Band and Scrooge on the Archery Lawn in the Botanic Gardens.

Bring a picnic and take in the musical mix of reggae, funk, rock, indie and soul from 2pm on Sunday.

America’s Cup FanZone

Grab a spot in the Emirates Team New Zealand (ETNZ) FanZone this weekend.

Watch the live action on the large outdoor screen at Five Lanes – off Cashel Mall – as Emirates Team New Zealand takes on Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli of Italy as they vie for America’s Cup honours on Waitematā Harbour in Auckland.

Nouvelle at The Arts Centre

Experience the glamour and the thrill of Nouvelle at The Arts Centre this weekend.

Featuring an aerial chandelier, Nouvelle offers a cabaret-cirque show packed with vocals, aerial feats and dance. Book online.

Sea2Sky Challenge

Gear up for the Sea2Sky Challenge on Sunday.

Start with an ocean swim, before cycling up the city’s highest roads and running along a hilly coastal trail. Register online.

Revamp Vintage Market

Sample the Revamp Vintage Market at the Air Force Museum in Wigram on Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

A selection of antiques, collectibles, retro, books, clothing, crystal, silver and oddities are on offer.

Find out more

You can find out about other events happening in and around Christchurch via the What’s On webpages.