Flying kites has an important role in many cultures across the world. Māori used kites, Te Manu Tukutuku, for recreation and communication. Kites were often seen as connectors of the heavens and the earth. In Christchurch, Kite Day at New Brighton is a popular summer event.
Kite Day at New Brighton
View Jim Nicholls' video of Kite Day 2024
Saturday 13 January 2024, 11am to 3pm
Kite Day features a sandcastle-building station, a beach dig competition, and live music hosted by radio station sponsor The Hits.
Mr Whippy will be selling ice creams at the New Brighton South Ramp car park and Youth Alive Trust will also be onsite with a candyfloss and kite stall. A pop-up Kite Shop will sell a range of colourful kites.
Find out more about Kite Day.
Find kite information in our collection
Our website
- Te manu tukutuku - Māori kites Find out about traditional Māori kites
- Te manu tukutuku – Māori kites for kids Information for kids about traditional Māori kites
Online resources
- Kites and manu tukutuku Te Ara The Encyclopedia of New Zealand
- Canterbury Windsports Association
- Peter Lynn – Canterbury kite designer
- The Kite Shop Christchurch-based kite business
- Jim’s Kites Local kite enthusiast who flys on New Brighton beach regularly. Lots of useful information on getting started.
Photos
Get a taste of Kite Day, see our photos.
