Welcome to Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre
Dating back to 1877, The Arts Centre is a thriving community with a rich history
Located in Ōtautahi Christchurch, The Arts Centre is run by an independent charitable trust and comprises the largest collection of heritage buildings in the country. It is home to over 70 entities including galleries, museums, cinemas, boutique retailers, artisan eateries and bars, accommodation, engaging events, stunning venues and much more.
Sculpture Festival 2026
The 7th annual Sculpture Festival features object art, contemporary jewellery, and outdoor sculpture by New Zealand artists.
Find out moreChristchurch Heritage Festival 2026 at The Arts Centre
Friday 16 October - Monday 26 October (Labour Day) 2026 Arts Centre wide
Join us in exploring the heritage of Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre over the Christchurch Heritage Festival 2026.
City Night Market
Every Friday Market Square
Christchurch has a brand-new Friday night destination! Experience an evening of delicious street food, specialty drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Free
Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026
Specific Mondays Great Hall
Discover a collection of musical gems - bite-size lunchtime concerts in the magnificent Great Hall, featuring renowned musicians from classical, jazz, and popular traditions.
Rising Stars Concert Series 2026
On specific Tuesdays Great Hall
Rising Stars is a Tuesday lunchtime concert series that focuses on encouraging, nurturing and providing a performance platform for emerging young musicians.
Te raranga o tōku ao
Tuesday 29 September – Saturday 24 October 2026 Common Room
Te raranga o tōku ao brings together an exhibition of raranga and sculptural works by Lily Williams, tracing a journey of reconnection, reclamation and mana motuhake.
Free
Observatory Tower and Exhibition Tours
Part of Christchurch Heritage Festival 2026
Sunday 18 and 25 October 2026 Observatory, Biology and Physics
Join a guided tour of the Observatory Tower and hear the stories of how it was used from 1896 to today
NEW WORKS | Emma Camden + Zara Dolan + Kara Burrowes
Thursday 24 September to Saturday 31 October Library
NEW WORKS showcases recent creations by sculptor Emma Camden, printmaker Zara Dolan, and mixed media artist Kara Burrowes; three artists, three distinct styles.
Free
Furtography
Monday 19 to Sunday 24 October 2026 First floor, Boys’ High
Travel the world with the dogs that call it home.
Free
What's Here
New Zealand-made homewares and gifts.
Frances Nation is a store specialising in Aotearoa New Zealand-made homewares and gifts of quality craftsmanship, authenticity and longevity.