Kites and Kite Day

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 - Saturday 30 January 2021 11am to 3pm

Kite Day takes place on New Brighton beach, south of the pier. Join in the seaside activities, try some fun beach sports with Sport Canterbury, and watch the kites soar on the sea breeze at Deep South Kite Day.

• Find out more about Kite Day.
• Subscribe to the Kite Day Facebook event.

Find kite information in our collection

• Kites
• Kite construction
• Kite surfing

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.

Photos of the 2017 event

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Photos of the 2016 event

Photos of the 2015 event