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Events

Waitangi Day

Nau mai, haere mai.

Okains Bay Museum invites you to a Waitangi Day – Family Fun Day at Kawatea, Rāpare 6 Pēpuere 2025| Okains Bay, Thursday 6 February 2025.

This is a special FREE event supported by Christchurch City Council.

Here’s what you can expect:

9:00 am: The Museum gates open, granting you free entry to a day brimming with:

Interactive displays: Learn about the rich history and taonga of the local region and of wider Aotearoa New Zealand.

Family-friendly games and activities: Fun for all ages including popular children’s entertainers Natural Magic.

Live music: Lindon Puffin.

Delicious food and treats: Fuel up on a variety of tasty options to keep your energy high.

Remember: Show your support for the Museum’s vital role in preserving national and regional treasures by bringing generous cash koha (donations).

Food and drinks will be available for purchase, but feel free to bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Cash and limited Eftpos will be accepted.

Please note that there will not be a pōwhiri or hāngī at Okains Bay this year.

Getting to Okains Bay:

Location:
  • Okains Bay is on the east coast of Te Pataka o Rakaihautū | Banks Peninsula
  • It’s 86 km from central Christchurch via Wairewa | Little River:
    • take the Summit Road from Hilltop.
    • OR, take the Christchurch/Akaroa Highway via Duvauchelle.
  • It’s also 20 km from Akaroa.
Transportation:
  • Unfortunately, there are no public transport options to Okains Bay.
  • If you’re driving an electric vehicle, there are charging stations at:
    • Little River
    • Akaroa (Rue Brittan & Beach Rd near the Fire Station)
Parking: 
  • Parallel roadside parking is along Okains Bay Road.
  • Parking is also available in the grounds of Okains Bay School – follow the signs.
Tips:
  • Gates open at 9am.
  • Allow plenty of time to make your journey.
  • Public toilets are at Little River and Duvauchelle.
  • Bring plenty of cash.
  • Okains has no potable water so bring your own drinking water. Bottled water is available for sale. There will also be a tank of drinking water located at the Museum.
  • Dress comfortably and prepare for outdoor weather conditions. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and dress in layers.

Volunteer to help out:

Email us if you’re keen to volunteer: