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 Canterbury's Big Weekend |
Canterbury Agricultural Park Wigram Road, Hornby Christchurch, NZ 8004 New Zealand +64 (0)3 343 3033 http://www.theshow.co.nz |
Formerly known as the Canterbury A & P Show and running for well over 100 years, this four-day event is the big day out for Cantabrians. Traditionally the highlight of the farming and agricultural calendar, with livestock competitions and farm equipment demonstrations, it is now a major entertainment event, including an international carnival area complete with roller coaster. The show has kept pace with the changing face of Canterbury farming and manufacturing and now includes a science and technology display, the local wine and food stalls, and a diverse range of livestock from sheep to emus. Admission: Adults NZD13; children NZD5; concession NZD7 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan  |
 Photo: Mike Riversdale |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
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Quirky natural history |
Rolleston Avenue Canterbury Museum Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 9429 x817 / +64 (0)3 366 5000 (Museum) http://www.canterburymuseum.co... |
Cross a natural history museum with a child's fantasy bedroom and you have something approaching the Discovery Centre. Bright and funky, 3-13 year-olds will have all their senses stimulated by jars full of weird biological specimens, quirky stuffed animals, drawers filled with animal skulls, a live bee colony, and all manner of animal puzzles and toys. The interesting levels, ramps and pits will suit the busier types, while parents can relax in cushioned comfort reading or playing with the quieter ones. Birthday parties and school holiday programmes are available to Discovery Club members. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Working Edwardian village |
Ferrymead Park Dr Christchurch 8002 New Zealand +64 (0)3 384 1970 http://www.ferrymead.org.nz |
For a genuine time warp, visit this historic theme park. From the car park, catch a tram or steam train and alight, feeling curiously out of place, in an Edwardian township complete with residents in period costume. Children of all ages will love the working cooperage and blacksmiths, the horse and cart, and the fascinating details of the post office, the bakery, jail, schoolhouse and cobblers. There are also two museums--the Hall of Flame (fire engines) and the Hall of Wheels (transport). Check website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Geof Wilson |
 Photo: Geof Wilson |
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Live theatre for children |
The Malthouse, 71 Colombo St Beckenham Christchurch 8002 New Zealand +64 (0)3 332 3271 http://www.malthouse.co.nz |
Home of the Canterbury Children's Theatre, the Malthouse Theatre Company has operated for many years from the historic premises made prominent by the Company's name. If you are looking for a suitable way to introduce your pre-schoolers or school-aged children to live theatre, this is it. Lively "child-centric" productions are staged here, and occasionally Malthouse Theatre Company performs at larger venues on several dates throughout the year. The most well known are the "cushion theatre" events, where your child will be entertained for just long enough to thrill, but not long enough to get restless! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nate Cull |
 Beach, walks, and history |
Lyttelton Harbour Cruises, B Jetty Lyttelton Christchurch 8012 New Zealand +64 (0)3 328 8368 |
Mix together the following ingredients: a boat trip, two excellent walking circuits, a beach, a picnic, and a dash of history. Bake for half a day. The result? A perfect family excursion! Quail Island, in Christchurch's Lyttelton harbour, was once a leper colony and quarantine station. Now managed by the Department of Conservation, you can reach it by ferry from the Lyttelton marina. Bring your own lunch and explore the island's natural and historical features by foot. Suitable for most ages, although the terrain is not suitable for pushchairs. Pay either on the boat (cash only) or at the marina. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Bodger |
 Photo: Simon Cobb |
 Photo: Dominik 2008 |
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For every lover of books |
38L English Street, Upper Riccarton Christchurch, NZ 8001 New Zealand +64 3 358 0740 http://www.chchwritersfest.co.... |
Since its inception in 1997, this annual bookfest has been growing in stature and reputation. Well-known authors, editors and publishers from New Zealand and abroad offer a range of stimulating talks and workshops on all facets of publishing (such as writing a thriller, self-publishing options, the role of the Internet, and book editing). There are also writing competitions and storytelling events for children. The festival is run from a number of locations including the historic Arts Centre of Christchurch. Review © 2007, Wcities |