17 - 19 April 2026
The Christchurch Modern Jive Championships is New Zealand's main multi-day competition.
Highlights
With the dancing spread over a number of days we can offer you:
- the opportunity to compete as a lead and follow
- plenty of social dancing throughout the weekend
- a chance to spend time and connect with other dancers
The convenient location, spacious venue, professional audio and lighting plus our reputation for attention to detail makes Chch Champs a favourite and worthwhile event for overseas dancers.
Superb venue
We're back at the Ara Rec Centre with its convenient central city location.
There are plenty of hotels, shops, cafes, restaurants and supermarkets all within easy walking distance.
There is also convenient viewing for spectators who are welcome throughout the weekend.
Your health and comfort
Dance events can be quite tiring so we don't just put you in a stadium with full lighting into the night.
We invest in suspended lighting for the dance floor along with warm ambient lighting for the venue. Dancers feel much more comfortable by the end of the day.
We also invest in a suspended sound system for better acoustics and ear health - our dancers appreciate the difference.
There are plenty of tables as well as bean bags to help make the whole experience welcoming and special.
Our amazing crew from 2025
Friday night
Welcome party 7:30pm - 11pm.
Lucky Dip pairings are revealed at the Friday party and are also available online.
Prepared Freestyle. 📷 Brian Ellis
Non-competitors and social dancers are welcome with door sales available on the night.
Saturday
Saturday has a range of events during the day with the excitement of finals taking place in the evening and then social dancing until midnight.
For non-competitors there is free entry during the day, $10 for the evening finals & performances.
Partner Blind 📷 Brian Ellis
Sunday
Inspire Modern Jive competitors 2024 📷 Brian Ellis
Sunday has a great vibe that perfectly complements the previous day with another great mix of events.
Free entry for spectators and social dancers.
We wrap up Sunday with a nice chunk of social dancing until 5:00pm.
Visit Christchurch
Why not include Chch Champs as part of a mini break or holiday especially if you're visiting from elsewhere.
With its convenient airport, regenerated city centre and access to the South Island, Christchurch is NZ's most vibrant city making it an attractive destination for international dancers.
Christchurch Riverside
