What's happening this Mental Health Week?

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8 October 2026

From a free youth pool party to mental health seminars and other events, there’s something for everyone during Mental Health Awareness Week, running from 12 to 18 October.

Why not dip your toes (literally and figuratively) into something new? We’ve included some ideas below.

For the young: Youth Pool Party

Dudley Park Aquatic Centre | Friday 16 October, 6-9pm

This is a FREE event for young people aged 12-24 years and is led by Waimakariri Youth Council and WaiYouth to create a space for young people to meet new people, connect with friends, and feel part of their community. Find more information on the Facebook event.

For the young at heart: Aquarobics

Aquarobics is a great choice for almost anyone, including beginners, older adults, pregnant women, and people recovering from injuries. Not to mention how social it can be! Both Dudley Park and Kaiapoi Aquatic Centres offer three different programmes for aquarobics, catering to first-timers through to seasoned experts. Find out more.

For the outdoorsy: Explore Matawai Park

Hidden away in Rangiora and covering four hectares, Matawai Park is a tranquil setting in the middle of suburbia and the perfect place to focus on your wellbeing. Inside the park are six wellbeing stations, each encouraging you to try an exercise designed to help regulate the nervous system by being present in the moment.

For the curious: Mental Health Community Workshops

Rangiora Library | Wednesday 14 October, 5pm
Oxford Library | Tuesday 20 October, 5pm

Gain practical advice to support someone struggling at our free mental health seminars. Presented by author and TEDx speaker, Michael Hempseed, these seminars will show you how to get help for anyone of any age going through tough times.

For the chatty: Talking Café at Waimakariri Libraries

Rangiora Library | Tuesdays from 1-2pm
Oxford Library | Fridays from 10.30-11.30am

They might be held inside a library, but no one’s going to tell you to “shhh” at these meet-ups. Have a cuppa, meet new people and create connections with others in the community. All ages welcome and refreshments are provided.

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