Looking for what’s on in Christchurch? Explore our pick of concerts, sport, markets and family days around Ōtautahi. Whether you are here for a weekend or a longer stay, this guide highlights the best events in Christchurch with simple tips for getting around. Stay with Scenic Hotel Cotswold for easy access to popular venues and Christchurch city!

Heritage Stargazing

Every Friday night during Winter, 10 April – 25 September 2026
Observatory Tower
Enjoy a guided winter stargazing experience at The Arts Centre, viewing the Southern Sky through a beautifully restored historic telescope from the Observatory Tower
Visit website

Dinosaurs: Surviving Extinction

13 April – 14 June 2026
66 Gloucester Street , Canterbury Museum Pop-Up
Dinosaurs: Surviving Extinction is a fascinating Canterbury Museum pop‑up exhibition featuring life‑size dinosaur skeletons and exploring the surprising link between prehistoric giants and modern birds

Marlon Williams

30 & 31 May 2026
Christchurch Town Hall
Marlon Williams returns to the stage with The Yarra Benders for a heartfelt New Zealand tour, offering fans a special farewell run of shows before he steps away for a well‑earned sabbatical

& Juliet

30 May – 13 June 2026
Isaac Theatre Royal
& Juliet is a high-energy, feel‑good musical that flips the script on Shakespeare’s classic, blending a bold new love story with hit pop songs you know and love

Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026

Specific Monday’s from 1 June 2026
Great Hall, The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora
Enjoy a series of bite‑size lunchtime concerts in the Great Hall, featuring an exciting line‑up of renowned musicians across classical, jazz, and contemporary styles.
View the programme

CSO Curator’s Series: Ravel, Morello, Mozart

5 June 2026
The Piano
This elegant orchestral concert weaves together Ravel, Mozart, and contemporary works, showcasing expressive symphonic music alongside a standout bass trombone solo performance.

Fire & Spice

13 June 2026
Riverside Market
Fire & Spice at Riverside is a vibrant winter festival celebrating bold flavours, live entertainment, and fiery performances, creating a lively night out filled with food, atmosphere, and fun.

Alex Warren

21 & 22 August 2026
Wolfbrook Arena
Alex Warren brings his Finding Family on the Road World Tour to New Zealand, delivering an arena‑scale pop show from one of the world’s biggest breakout stars, packed with chart‑topping hits and emotional live performances

Botanic Gardens & Mona Vale Guided Walks

October – April
Free guided walks at the Botanic Gardens (October to April) and Mona Vale Gardens (year-round)
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Rugby League World Cup

25 October 2026
One New Zealand Stadium
Catch the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns on home soil in a thrilling Rugby League World Cup 2026 double‑header, with two international clashes packed into one action‑filled Sunday afternoon

Robbie Williams

28 November 2026
One New Zealand Stadium
Robbie Williams returns to Christchurch for the first time in 25 years, bringing his hit‑packed live show to One New Zealand Stadium for a hugely anticipated night of pop spectacle

2027 Events

Foo Fighters

19 January 2027
One New Zealand Stadium
Foo Fighters return to Christchurch next summer, delivering a massive live show from one of the world’s most iconic and beloved rock bands

Electric Avenue

26-27 February 2027
Hagley Park, Christchurch
Australasia’s largest music festival is back again in 2027. Tickets and local accommodation sell out fast so make sure you book well ahead

Photo Credit: Christchurch Tourism