Your guide to what’s on in Christchurch

Explore the city’s amazing architecture as Open Christchurch reveals the interiors of stunning buildings or back the Crusaders for the first trans-Tasman clash.

Open Christchurch

Wander through the main doors of some of Christchurch’s most captivating buildings to marvel at the city’s architecture.

Organised by Te Pūtahi – Centre for Architecture & City-Making, Open Christchurch offers an opportunity to see inside some of the city’s unique homes and buildings of cultural, historic or architectural significance, including the Old Government Building, Christ’s College, the Town Hall and the Arts Centre. Guided tours, children’s workshops, expert tours, guided walks, and exhibitions will also be held as part of the two-day festival on Saturday and Sunday. 

Super Rugby Trans-Tasman & Netsky

The Crusaders wil kickstart the chase for another Super Rugby Trans-Tasman title against the Brumbies at Orangetheory Stadium on Saturday night.

Belgian drum and bass producer and musician Netsky will build up the excitement with a pre-match show at 6pm, with the West Stand turned into a general admission area. Following the 45-minute Netsky set, fans will take their seats in the East Stand or the North Stand for the Crusaders rugby game against the Brumbies starting at 7.05pm. Tickets for both Netsky and the match cost $50, with other tickets – ranging in price –  available for the game only. Book tickets online.

NBL – Rams versus Huskies

Throw your support behind the Canterbury Rams as the team takes on the Auckland Huskies at Cowles Stadium on Friday night. Book tickets online.

Smokefree Rockquest Canterbury

Canterbury’s rising young singers and bands will vie for a spot in the Smokefree Rockquest regional finals at the Aurora Centre on Saturday. Admission to the heats costs $10, with children aged five and under free.

Community planting days

Grab your spade and dig deep for the environment at community planting sessions at QEII Park and Charlesworth Reserve on Sunday from 10am to noon. 

Envirokids launch

Head to the Kiosk in the Botanic Gardens on Saturday at 10am for the launch of Envirokids, which encourages kids to connect to environmental activities. 

On stage

Ben Elton

British comedian Ben Elton brings his new stand-up show to the James Hay Theatre at Christchurch Town Hall this weekend.

The popular author, playwright, actor and director is also well-known for his work on The Young Ones, Blackadder and Mr Bean. Book the few remaining tickets online. 

Kiwi Grooves

Celebrate NZ Music Month with Kiwi Grooves – featuring a host of Kiwi talent – at Isaac Theatre Royal on Friday night. Book your spot online. 

An Evening with John Butler

Enjoy an entertaining evening with Australia’s multi-award-winning performer, John Butler, at Isaac Theatre Royal on Saturday night. Book tickets online.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Head out of the city for a musical treat as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat sweeps onto the stage at the Rangiora Town Hall. Book your tickets online.

CSO – Glinka & Tchaikovsky

Sit back and soak up the sounds of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, featuring the works of Glinka & Tchaikovsky.

Tickets to Saturday night’s Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: Glinka & Tchaikovsky performance are available online.

Community art class

Join the free community art classes encouraging individual creativity at Brighton Gallery on Fridays from 10.30am.  

Fabric Stash Sale

Head to the ChCh sews HQ on Saturday for the Fabric Stash Sale from 11am to 1pm. You can also bring along any unwanted fabric labelled with measurements, price and fibre to the sale on the corner of Duke Street and Lichfield Street.

Careers Expo

Check out some potential career options at the Careers Expo this weekend. Entry to Christchurch Arena is free, with the doors open from 9am on Friday and Saturday. 

Find out more

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