Welcome to Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre
Dating back to 1877, The Arts Centre is a thriving community with a rich history
Located in Ōtautahi Christchurch, The Arts Centre is run by an independent charitable trust and comprises the largest collection of heritage buildings in the country. It is home to over 70 entities including galleries, museums, cinemas, boutique retailers, artisan eateries and bars, accommodation, engaging events, stunning venues and much more.
Matariki 2025
Nau mai, haere mai come celebrate Matariki with talented artists from Ōtautahi and beyond.
Find out moreFriends Fundraising Film Night: The Last Journey
Monday 26 May 2025 West Lecture
Join the Friends of the Arts Centre for a Fundraising Film Night in aid of The Arts Centre.
Jackie Goes Prima Diva
Saturday 24 May 2025 Great Hall
Homegrown chanteuse Jackie Clarke turns her powerhouse vocals, wicked humour and maverick entertainment style to interpret the songs of the 20th and 21st Centuries most legendary divas.
Behind the Songs - A Sunday afternoon with Holly Arrowsmith
Sunday 25 May 2025 Cloisters Studio
Step into the intimate Cloister Studio for a glimpse behind the music of Holly Arrowsmith. In this candid talk and acoustic solo performance, hear an award-winning songwriter share the stories, insigh
Brainy Beanies
Tuesday 20 - Sunday 25 May 2025 First floor, Boys’ High
The Brainy Beanies Exhibition, organized by Brain Tumour Support NZ, is making its Christchurch debut! More than just a fundraiser, this special event brings together crafters from across New Zealand.
Free
Arts Centre Chamber Series: Only | Emotions
Sunday 25 May 2025 Great Hall
In a celebration of the life and work of extraordinary composer Sofia Gubaidulina, join staff, students and members of the UC Music community in concert.
Jazz Club 2025
26 June – 11 September 2025 Great Hall
Combining an unforgettable venue with music that sparkles, The Arts Centre Jazz Club delivers an authentic jazz lovers' experience.
Heritage Stargazing
Every Friday night during Winter, 11 April - 26 September 2025 Observatory, Biology and Physics
Experience stargazing through the Townsend Teece Telescope in the Observatory Tower (1896) with astronomers from the University of Canterbury.
Telling Tales
Saturday 7 June 2025 Great Hall
Victor Rodger's first play SONS debuted at The Court Theatre in 1995. Thirty years later his play Black Faggot is playing to packed houses in The Court Theatre's brand-new premises.
Free
Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2025
Specific Mondays Great Hall
Your annual line-up of renowned local, national, and international musicians playing a curated selection of lunchtime concerts in the picturesque Great Hall.
What's Here
New Zealand-made homewares and gifts.
Frances Nation is a store specialising in Aotearoa New Zealand-made homewares and gifts of quality craftsmanship, authenticity and longevity.