Take flight to New Brighton for Kite Day

The sky above New Brighton beach will be awash with kites of all sizes on Saturday as the seaside suburb plays host to one of the most popular events of SummerTimes – Deep South Kite Day.

International kite fliers from as far away as the Netherlands will be at the beach, flying kites by world-leading kite manufacturer Peter Lynn Kites of Ashburton.

Peter Lynn Kites’ master kite maker Simon Chinsall has made kites for Hollywood movies like How to Train Your Dragon 2.

Local kite-flying experts Julie Adam and Jim Nicholls will also be on hand to provide advice to those hoping to get their own kites airborne.

“Kite Day is a great family event that draws people all across the city to New Brighton for a fun day at the beach. People can fly their own kites or simply sit back and enjoy watching as others try to get their kites soaring on the sea breeze, ‘’ says Christchurch City Council Events and Arts Manager Lucy Blackmore.

“We’re lucky this year to have an international contingent of kite fliers in the city for Kite Day so people will get the chance to see some real masters in action.

“There’s also going to be a sandcastle competition and Sport Canterbury is organising beach activities so there’s going to be lots to keep the family entertained throughout the day,’’ Ms Blackmore says.

The New Brighton Silver Band will also be performing in the amphitheatre.

Deep South Kite Day begins at 11am and runs until 3pm.