Events at the Botanic Gardens

You are invited to join a number of events throughout the year at the New Zealand World Peace Bell located in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

Celebrate, commemorate and have a go at ringing the bell.

Annual events

The World Peace Bell Association(external link) organises all of the above ceremonies with the exception of UN Holocaust Memorial Day, Hiroshima and Nagasaki Remembrance and Joya-no-kane 108 Bells.

Sometimes new events are added so please check back for commemorations of interest.

Find out more about the New Zealand World Peace Bell.

10am to 11.30am, Mondays during the school term.

Calling all parents, grandparents and caregivers! Bring your preschool-aged tamariki into the Christchurch Botanic Gardens to enjoy a simple craft or plant-based activity with the Canterbury Horticultural Society.

Stories, toys and colouring-in are available too.

• All welcome - no booking needed (caregiver supervision is required).
• Tea and coffee are provided.
• Gold coin koha entry
• Runs during school term-time.

Enjoy gardening and nature-based activities with your preschooler.

More information is available on the Canterbury Horticultural Society Facebook page(external link).

Envirokids is a chance to connect Kiwi kids to our environmental community, and it's free.

Every Saturday, the Envirohub(external link) will have activities for kids inspired by the mahi (work) of different organisations that work with the environment.

Activities are available between 10am to 3pm every Saturday, even in the holidays.

• 10am to 3pm every Saturday at the Kiosk, Botanic Gardens.
• Children who come regularly can record their learning in a special passbook available once they attend their second event.
• EnviroKids is also an accredited Children's University learning destination so stamps are available for participating children's passports.

Find out more information about EnviroKids(external link) or keep up to date on the EnviroKids Facebook(external link). 

10.30am to 1.30pm Thursdays.

Pop in for an environmental chat if you need inspiration or advice on anything from starting a new environmental project,  volunteer challenges,  funding advice for green projects, sustainability at home or waste and recycling processes.

The EnviroHub are here to help:

• An opportunity to join an ongoing conversation or have a one-on-one chat.
• Free, no bookings required.
• Drop into the Kiosk anytime between 10.30am and 1pm in the Kiosk, Botanic Gardens.

Find more information about Environmental Chat(external link).

The Friends of the Botanic Gardens run a plant stall opposite the Kiosk. It is restocked daily and available plants often change.

• All plants are just $7.
• Payment is either via cash in the donation box, or eftpos at the Kiosk.
• Kiosk hours for EFTPOS payment are 10am to 4pm from September to April, and 10am to 3pm from May to August.
• Please bring your own bag to carry plants, the Kiosk does not have any available.

For more information about the varieties on offer, please contact friendsofthegardens@gmail.com.

Join the Friends of the Botanic Gardens volunteer guides for free guided walks at the Botanic Gardens (October to April) and Mona Vale Gardens (year-round).

Pick and choose from a wonderful selection of topics or come along to all of them for a dose of exercise, beautiful displays, and education rolled into one.

See the walk schedule.

Botanic Gardens guided walks

• October to April
• 1.30pm daily lasting 45 to 90 minutes.
• Meet at the Kiosk, Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

Mona Vale guided walks

• Selected dates throughout the year.
• 1.30pm, lasting approx. 90 minutes.
• Meet by the Mona Vale rose garden.

If you have any queries about guided walks at Mona Vale or the Botanic Gardens, please contact friendsofthegardens@gmail.com.

Join the Canterbury Horticultural Society for their monthly meet-up. Hear fascinating speakers, connect with like-minded folk and learn new skills for the garden.

Garden life(external link) runs at 6pm on the first Tuesday of the month, with a repeat on Wednesday at 1pm.

• The Kiosk, Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
• $5 for CHS and Friends members, $10 general public.
• Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided in the afternoon session and nibbles and a glass of wine in the evening.

October

6pm, Tuesday 7 October and 1pm, Wednesday 8 October.

Main speaker: Paul Hooper, Intelligro

Paul Hooper is the Research and Development Technical Advisor at Intelligro, where he shares his expertise with both customers and staff. With a lifelong passion for horticulture, Paul retrained at Lincoln University in 2014 and has since worked across nurseries in Selwyn and Christchurch. For the past four years, he has been at Intelligro, helping gardeners and professionals get the most from their soils and growing media.

In his talk, Paul will cover:

• What certified organic compost means in New Zealand
• The benefits of organic compost – and why not all composts are equal
• The circular economy and its impact on compost
• Potting mixes – their components, how they’re made, and their purposes
• Why sourcing direct from a manufacturer has advantages
• Common problems and questions around composts, mixes, and soils

Bring along your questions—Paul will be happy to share his practical advice and insights.

Mini speaker: Yvette Edwards, Flower arranging with a twist

Yvette’s love for flowers began in her grandmother’s garden in North Wales and grew through visits to iconic gardens with her mother—an experience they still cherish today.

She trained in floristry in the English countryside, gaining experience in everything from stately home weddings to royal luncheons. After moving to New Zealand, Yvette launched her wedding florals business from Island Bay before opening her first store on Tory Street, Wellington, in 2016. Known for its lush greenery and seasonal blooms, it became a destination for bespoke, sustainable floral design.

In 2025, Yvette relocated to Christchurch to begin a new chapter, continuing to grow her botanical journey.

November

6pm, Tuesday 4 November and 1pm, Wednesday 5 November.

Main speaker: Helen Osbourne, Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House Museum

Where Change Took Root: Kate Sheppard and the Landscape of Suffrage

This talk explores the remarkable life and enduring impact of Kate Sheppard through the lens of her home and garden in Ōtautahi Christchurch. As Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading suffrage campaigner, Kate Sheppard understood the power of persistence, strategy, and community — values still deeply rooted in the place she once called home.

Helen Osborne shares insights into Kate’s vegetarianism and its influence on the historic garden, as well as the transformation of the house into a public site of memory. The presentation highlights how this space continues to spark conversations about women’s rights, political change, and social justice — inviting reflection on how heritage places can serve as powerful reminders of activism, resistance, and the everyday lives that shape history.

Helen is the Property Lead for Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, where she manages Te Whare Waiutuutu Kate Sheppard House Museum.

Mini Speaker: Bear Astill - Midgarden

Discover the world of chilli peppers with Midgarden, a small organic farming enterprise based in Ōtautahi/Christchurch. Founded by Bear Astill and Amy Wilson, Midgarden began with a lockdown passion for growing chillies and has since grown into a vibrant business specialising in organic, flavourful varieties—some familiar, others rare and surprising.

Come along to hear their story, learn how they grow sustainably, and dive into the colourful, spicy world of chillies.

Ceramics inspired by nature – craft your own botanical clay patterns and let your creativity flourish.

Join ceramicist Jane McCulla for a hands-on practical workshop where Jane will demonstrate how to imprint botanical textures onto clay using hand-building techniques.

Jane will take care of the glazing and firing, and two weeks later, you’ll collect your work imprinted with botanical patterns and suitable for everyday use.

Botanical container with lid

2pm to 4pm, Sunday 7 September
Father's Day ceramics – make a botanical-inspired container with Dad.

Green man tile

1pm to 3.30pm, Sunday 12 October.
An old age symbol of seasonal renewal and ecological awareness.

Location

Join us at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Free parking is available for the duration.

Contact 03 366 6937 or office@chsgardens.co.nz.

Costs

• $65 Members and Friends of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• $80 for non-members
• Price includes all materials and self-serve tea, coffee and biscuits
  

Please bring along an apron or wear clothing that you are happy to get a spot or two of clay on.

Book your mug, vase or container workshop(external link).

Book your Green Man tile workshop(external link).

Become a member of the CHS(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

Please note: Our courses are aimed at adults. If you are under 18, please contact us before booking so we can check with our tutors.

Enjoy zero-waste, nature-based craft that creates beautiful, sustainable gifts and home decorations. Join tutor Toni Rowe and learn how to craft kono baskets and putiputi.

Kono (four corner) basket

• 10am to 1pm, and 1.30pm to 4pm, Sunday 28 September
• 10am to 1pm, Sunday 26 October

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to make a useful Kono (four corner) basket from harakeke.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to craft your own practical and sustainable harakeke basket.

Putiputi (flax flowers)

10am to 1pm, Sunday 26 October.

Join us at The Kiosk for an enriching and hands-on workshop where you’ll learn the art of making different styles of Putiputi and leave with a bunch.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to craft your own stunning putiputi, carrying a piece of sustainable and cultural artistry into your life.

Location

This workshop will take place at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Contact 03 366 6937 or office@chsgardens.co.nz.

Costs

• $40 for CHS members and Friends of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• $50 for non-members

Bookings are required.(external link)(external link)(external link)

Become a member of the CHS(external link)(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

Please note: This course is aimed at adults. If you are under 18, please contact us before booking so we can check with our tutors. If the event is sold out online, and you would like to go on the waitlist, please also get in touch.

Join renowned flower preservationist and artist Debz Eagle for an inspiring workshop on flower pressing and botanical art.

2pm to 3.30pm Sunday 5 October.

Step into the captivating world of pressing flowers. This workshop is perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to expert floral artists. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your flower-pressing skills, this hands-on experience promises to guide you on your floral pressing journey.

• Botanical Exploration: Discover botanicals perfect for pressing and some unusual ones that you might not have thought of. Learn ways to preserve different kinds of flowers and how we can use them in arts and craft items.
• Materials Supplied: Each participant will be supplied with fresh flowers and leaves to press, a small traditional press to take home and an information booklet.

Location

Join us at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Free parking is available for the duration.

Contact 03 366 6937 or office@chsgardens.co.nz.

Costs

• $60 for members and Friends of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
• $80 for non-members.
• $120 for workshop plus CHS membership.

Price includes materials and self-serve tea, coffee and biscuits.

Become a member of the CHS(external link)(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

Book on the Canterbury Horticultural Society website(external link).

For more information, please visit the CHS website(external link), email office@chsgardens.co.nz or phone 03 366 6937.

Enjoy a bountiful Spring veggie garden.

1.30pm to 3pm, Sunday 14 September.

Kickstart your gardening journey with our Veggie Seed Raising workshop, perfect for beginners or anyone eager to set aside time to plant their veggie seeds this Spring!

This hands-on workshop covers all the essentials of growing your own vegetable seeds, from planting to nurturing. You’ll learn how to cultivate a flourishing veggie garden and leave with enough seeds to fill a substantial garden, plus extra seeds for future planting.

• Fundamentals of Seed Raising: Learn about different types of vegetable seeds, soil preparation, and optimal planting techniques.
• Practical Experience: Participate in hands-on activities, potting your own seeds under expert guidance.
• Seedling Care: Gain insights into watering, sunlight requirements, and other care tips to ensure healthy seedling growth.

Materials provided to take home

• A variety of veggie seeds
• Seedling trays and pots
• High-quality potting mix
• Instructional planting guide
• Seed for future planting

What to bring

• Notebook and pen for taking notes
• Gardening gloves (optional)
• Mask for potting mix

Tutors

Isabelle Weston and Elizabeth Woolley

Isabelle is the Activities and Events Coordinator at the Canterbury Horticultural Society. Her profound love for gardening has inspired her to share her extensive knowledge with others. Elizabeth leads the CHS Fruit & Vegetable Group and is a passionate vegetable grower.

Location

The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens  – Just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Tel: 03 366 6937
Email: office@chsgardens.co.nz

Costs

• $40 Members and Friends of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• $45 Non-Members
• $105 Course + CHS Membership
• Price includes all materials and self-serve tea, coffee and biscuits

Book your spot today(external link)

A creative and spooky family workshop.

2pm to 4pm, Saturday 18 October.

Get into the spooky spirit and unleash your creativity by crafting your very own Halloween-themed scarecrow! Perfect for individuals, families, and groups, this hands-on workshop is a fun and festive way to celebrate the season.

• Work solo or as a team:
  Whether you’re flying solo, teaming up with your whanau, or crafting with friends, this workshop caters to everyone. Create a spooky masterpiece to scare (or delight) your neighbourhood.
• All materials provided:
  We’ll provide all the essentials for building your scarecrow, including a variety of materials and accessories. But if you’ve got old clothes, hats, ties or props lying around, feel free to bring them along to add a personal touch and upcycle.
• Seasonal treats for a break:
  Halfway through, take a break and enjoy some sweet treats and fresh fruit to keep your energy and creativity flowing.
• Take home your creation:
  At the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a unique, handcrafted scarecrow ready to display in your garden, porch, or anywhere that needs a bit of Halloween magic.

15 individuals/family groups per session only.

The workshop is recommended for children 10 and up who are comfortable sewing on their own. For younger children, it's a wonderful opportunity to team up with a parent or guardian for some hands-on creative fun.

Location

Join us at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Contact 03 366 6937 or office@chsgardens.co.nz.

Costs

• $55 per individual or family group
• $70 for non-members
• $115 for the workshop and CHS membership

Includes all materials and light refreshments.

Don’t miss out on this frightfully fun workshop. Book your spot now(external link), and let your Halloween creativity shine.

Age suitability

We recommend this workshop for kids aged 10 and up who are comfortable sewing on their own. For younger children, it’s a wonderful opportunity to team up with a parent or guardian for some hands-on creative fun.

Every family is different, so if your little one enjoys crafting and has a bit of patience, they’re more than welcome to join with your support!

Become a member

Become a member of the CHS(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

For more information, please visit the CHS website(external link)(external link)(external link), email office@chsgardens.co.nz or phone 03 366 6937.

Discover how herbs and plants can gently support your wellbeing.

2pm to 4pm, Sunday 2 November.

Join Valmai Becker for two relaxing hours in the Botanic Gardens Kiosk as she shares her expert knowledge, including:

• The healing benefits of plants.
• Gentle ways to enjoy nourishing tisanes, tailored to your taste and wellness needs.
• A guided talk on tisanes (healing teas), with each participant selecting one to take home.
• Time to sip and enjoy a restorative herbal tea.
• An informative Q&A session to answer your personal questions.

The following week, you can join Valmai at Phytofarm(external link) in Little River for a 3-hour herbal skincare workshop. Miore details(external link).

Location

Join us at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Contact 03 366 6937 or office@chsgardens.co.nz.

Costs

• $65 for members of the Friends or CHS
• $85 for non-members

Includes a Phytofarm tissane to take home.

Limited places available, book today(external link)

Become a member

Become a member of the CHS(external link)(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

For more information, please visit the CHS website(external link)(external link)(external link)(external link), email office@chsgardens.co.nz or phone 03 366 6937.

Discover the joy of hand embroidery.

2pm to 5pm, Saturday 15 November.

Join textile artist Sawi Thorpe for a relaxed and inspiring 3-hour workshop exploring the timeless craft of hand embroidery.

Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to refine your stitches, you’ll learn foundational techniques, tips for working with colour and texture, and how to create beautiful designs – inspired by nature – by hand. All materials are provided – come along to our November workshop (perfect inspiration for Christmas gifts) or cosy up at the Kiosk next June. Just bring your curiosity and love for making!

Every participant receives a comprehensive embroidery kit which includes:

• Hand-printed linen fabric
• Wooden beech embroidery hoop, 6” x 1
• DMC embroidery thread
• Embroidery needle x 2 (brand DMC)
• Mini scissors x 1
• Full-colour Beginner’s Stitch Guide + colour chart
• Eco-friendly and sustainable fabric and hoop.

Choose from three designs - wildflowers, pōhutakawa or meadow garden.

Location

Join us at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Contact 03 366 6937 or office@chsgardens.co.nz.

Costs

• $105 for Friends or CHS members
• $135 for non-members

Includes all materials.

Limited places available, book now!(external link)

Become a member

Become a member of the CHS(external link)(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

For more information, please visit the CHS website(external link)(external link)(external link)(external link), email office@chsgardens.co.nz or phone 03 366 6937.

Walk, talk and taste with gardener and award-winning author Sue Heazlewood.

1.30pm Saturday 22 November. Rainy day date Sunday 23 November.

Join the Canterbury Horticultural Society for an enchanting afternoon at the beautiful Tangleby Gardens in Ohoka. Featuring a talk from the gardener and author, cooking demonstration and decadent afternoon tea, you’re sure to be inspired by Tangleby’s captivating Canterbury setting.

Highlights

• 1.30pm: Talk with gardener and author Sue Heazlewood. Discover the story behind this classic country house surrounded by colourful, inviting gardens.
• 2pm: cooking demonstration. Sue will share some of the dishes that grace the table at Tangleby in an hour-long demonstration. Sure to leave you inspired to cook and bring a little bit of the Tangleby magic home.
• 3pm: Garden tour. Stroll around the picturesque gardens at your leisure.
• 3pm: Afternoon tea Enjoy a beautifully curated afternoon tea by Sue Heazlewood, featuring savoury canapés, delicate tarts, and indulgent sweet treats, perfectly paired with an elegant garden setting.

Location

Tangleby Gardens(external link), 14 Joy Place, Ohoka, Canterbury Waitaha.

Canterbury Horticultural Society Office, 03 366 6937, office@chsgardens.co.nz

Costs

• $95 for members and Friends of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• $120 for non-members
• $155 for the event and CHS membership

Reserve your spot today.(external link) Limited places available.

Become a member of the CHS(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

Please note: our events are aimed at adults. If you are under 18 or wish to bring along tamariki please contact us before booking so we can check. 

Transform your festive table into a showstopper.

6.30pm to 9pm, Tuesday 11 November

Whether you’re planning a casual gathering or a formal feast, this session will leave you feeling confident and inspired.

We’ll cover:

• Creative table settings and DIY centrepieces
• Styling tips for table shapes and group sizes
• Ideas for name tags, napkin folds, and more
• How to use greenery, candles, and colour
• All materials provided — just bring your ideas and Christmas cheer!

Workshop includes a glass of bubbles on arrival and a festive Christmas supper. 

Location

Join us at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens – Just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park. Free parking is available for the duration.

Tel: 03 366 6937
Email: office@chsgardens.co.nz

Costs

• $45 for Friends and CHS members
• $55  for non-members

Reserve your spot today. Limited places available.(external link)

Become a member

Become a member of the CHS(external link)(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

For more information, please visit the CHS website(external link)(external link)(external link)(external link), email office@chsgardens.co.nz or phone 03 366 6937.

Bring the festive spirit home this Christmas.

10.30am to 1pm and 6.30pm to 9pm, Thursday 11 December.

Learn the art of making a stunning Christmas-themed fresh floral wreath. Perfect for adding a personalised touch to your Christmas door, table or gifting to someone special.

Join Isabelle Weston at the Kiosk in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a delightful hands-on workshop. Enjoy a cozy and festive environment with holiday music, light refreshments, a glass of bubbles (with or without alcohol), and good company.

Workshop highlights

• Step-by-Step Guidance: Learn techniques from a knowledgeable tutor to craft a perfectly balanced and festive wreath.
• Floral Selection: Choose from a variety of fresh seasonal flowers, greenery, and embellishments to customise your wreath.
• Assembly: Hands-on creation of your wreath with all materials provided.
• Tips & Tricks: Gain insights on how to keep your wreath fresh throughout the holiday season.

Location

Join us at The Kiosk, Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just over the footbridge from the Armagh Street car park.

Contact 03 366 6937 or office@chsgardens.co.nz.

Costs

• $125 for Friends and CHS members
• $145 for non-members

Includes all materials and light refreshments.

Reserve your spot today(external link)

Become a member

Become a member of the CHS(external link)(external link) and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops.

For more information, please visit the CHS website(external link)(external link)(external link)(external link), email office@chsgardens.co.nz or phone 03 366 6937.

To get involved in volunteering in the Botanic Gardens, join the Friends of the Botanic Gardens(external link).