KidsFest - July School Holidays

Come along to the library in the July school holidays for KidsFest. We have range of exciting matariki-themed events and activities for you and your whānau to engage with.

Running Every Day:

Mystery Trail: – Kahu the Kea is paddling their waka down the mighty Waimakariri River. Auē! They cannot do it alone. They need help from their friends.

Whakataukī Tree: Celebrate Matariki with our take-one/leave-one activity for the whole hapori |community. Visit our Whakataukī Tree alongside the Matariki display, choose a Matariki-themed whakataukī to take home, and add one of your own. A chance to connect through mātauranga Māori and uplift Te Reo Māori.

KidsFest - July School Holidays Events: 

Matariki Code Quest*
Make a Matariki Quiz on Scratch and learn the basics of coding. Ages 8+ 
Kaiapoi Library - Monday 6 July, 1.30-3pm
Rangiora Library - Wednesday 15 July, 1.30-3pm 

Melanie Poppins*
Prepare to be spellbound! Join us at the library for a magical performance by the enchanting Melanie Poppins. With dazzling tricks, mind-bending illusions, and a sprinkle of her signature charm, Melanie will leave audiences of all ages amazed and inspired. Don't miss this unforgettable show full of laughter, wonder, and plenty of surprises. Magic is in the air—see you there!
Rangiora Library - Tuesday 7 July, 10am
Kaiapoi Library - Tuesday 7 July, 2pm 

Stitching Stars for Matariki - Tote Bags*
Get crafty this Matariki! Join us for a chilled session where rangatahi can learn to stitch the Matariki stars onto a tote bag, connect with the meaning of Matariki, and create something special to take home. No experience required.
Oxford Library - Wednesday 8 July, 2-3pm
Rangiora Library - Thursday 9 July, 2-3pm 
Kaiapoi Library - Thursday 16 July, 2-3pm 

Teece Museum: Gods and Heroes of ancient Greece with the UC Teece Museum*Who is your favourite Greek god? Learn about the gods and heroes of ancient Greece and try some fun craft activities with the University of Canterbury Teece Museum! You will get the chance to see and hold real ancient artefacts from the University of Canterbury Logie Collection of Greek and Roman antiquities. This workshop is free and suitable for children aged 7-12 years. Bookings are essential as seats are limited to just 15 participants.
Kaiapoi Library - Thursday 9 July, 10-12noon 

Wildlife Hospital Story Session Join volunteer Alison Chick of the South Island Wildlife Hospital for an interactive session about seabirds. Through stories, photos, rhymes, a song and a puppet show, tamariki will learn about the dangers these birds face, how the hospital is helping, and what we can do to become seabird guardians or kaitiaki. The South Island Wildlife Hospital is a non-profit facility that treats sick and injured native New Zealand wildlife. Please visit their website to learn more about how you can support their work.
Rangiora Library - Monday 13 July, 10am
Kaiapoi Library - Monday 13 July, 2pm

Matariki Storytimes 
Come and join our wonderful presenters as they share pukapuka and waiata in a mīharo/awesome celebration of Matariki.
Oxford Library - Tuesday 14 July, 10.30-11.30am
Kaiapoi Library - Wednesday 15 July, 10.30-11.30am
Rangiora Library - Thursday 16 July, 10.30-11.30am 

Waimakariri Family Quiz Night
Join us for a fun and interactive Family Quiz Night as part of KidsFest! Gather your whānau and test your knowledge with fun, inclusive questions designed for kids and adults to enjoy together. All ages welcome—no quiz experience needed!
Oxford Library - Tuesday 14 July, 6pm
Kaiapoi Library - Thursday 16 July, 6pm
Rangiora Library - Friday 17 July, 6pm