Time to organise that playdate! Head to one of these restaurants and cafes with play areas for kids in Christchurch.
If you’re tired of wondering where to go, kids in tow, keep this webpage bookmarked for whenever you need to make a quick decision. We’ve done the hard work for you, finding and compiling the ultimate list of restaurants and cafes with play areas so that you can eat a hot meal and enjoy a conversation – uninterrupted, that is!
Note: We’ll keep this list as up-to-date as we can, but if you have recently been to one of these restaurants and cafes with play areas for kids, and they no longer offer what’s listed below, or have closed down, please let us know so we can keep our #nooknz community in the loop!
Read more: Christchurch Pubs, Bars and Beer Gardens With Play Areas for Kids
Restaurants and cafes with play areas for kids:
Cafes with play areas:
London Canteen
Previously known as Urban Eatery, the newly revamped London Canteen by Table Bloom, located next to Oderings in Spreydon, is the ultimate spot for a relaxed coffee catch-up with the little ones in tow. With a fresh new menu, friendly vibes, and a fantastic play area, it’s a win for both parents and kids. Enjoy a hot coffee while your toddler happily spends hours in the sandpit, or let the baby nap while you unwind. Thoughtful touches like plastic kids’ cups, a dedicated children’s menu, and a range of books make it an easy choice for family outings. There’s plenty of space for prams, and the seating is spacious and comfy—perfect for a casual catch-up with friends. Bonus: just next door at the garden centre, you’ll find a Springfree trampoline and a small playground to burn off any excess energy. Keep an eye on the open pond outside (although, with a bridge perfect for fish-watching, it’s hard not to get distracted!). This little gem on Stourbridge Street is quickly becoming a favourite for Christchurch parents. Check out our reel here.
London Canteen, 92 Stourbridge Street, Spreydon, Christchurch, www.instagram.com/londoncanteennz
Waffle Haus
Offering a delicious variety of waffles (think Death by Chocolate—you get the vibe), this cosy café is a great spot to duck into on New Regent Street. Although not pram-friendly, there’s a small play area upstairs with games, a chalkboard, and books to keep kids entertained while you enjoy your coffee and sweet treats. Perfect for a quick bite or an indulgent waffle fix in the heart of the city.
Waffle Haus, 12 New Regent Street, Christchurch Central City, www.wafflehaus.co.nz
The Raspberry Café
Tai Tapu’s Raspberry Café serves delicious treats and is an idyllic setting for coffee and catch-ups while kids keep themselves entertained. Its lush lawns with outdoor seating are great for summer months and for keeping an eye on your children as they play in the sand pit or take advantage of the generous space available.
The Raspberry Café, 40 Rhodes Road, Selwyn, Tai Tapu, www.aspberrycafe.co.nz
Coffee Culture, Beckenham
You can usually count on Coffee Culture to have a play area, but its Beckenham location has a whole back area with plenty of toys and comfy seating. Plus, it’s right around the corner from ‘Little One Limited’, which is always worth a peek to see if you can stumble upon a few bargains.
Coffee Culture, 140 Colombo Street, Sydenham, www.coffeeculture.co.nz/stores/beckenham
Under the Red Verandah
Kiddos can enjoy playing ‘under the red verandah’ while you take a moment for yourself or catch up with friends. With plenty of shaded outdoor seating available, enjoy a yummy menu and plenty of toys to tinker with.
Under the Red Verandah, 29 Tancred Street, Linwood, www.utrv.co.nz
Moment Café
Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 3 PM (we love an early start), Moment Café has a fab menu for both adults and kids. There’s a playpen stocked with toys for younger tots, making it a stress-free spot for parents. Plus, kids eat free every Monday—perfect for starting the week with a treat!
Moment Cafe, 87 Manchester Street, Christchurch Central City, www.momentcafe.co.nz
Helado — Coffee & Gelato Garden
If you’re yet to head to Helado in Rolleston, we promise it’s worth the trip. Possibly the cutest gelato and coffee shop, it’s the perfect pitstop for a scoop of ice cream and delicious pastries. We love the wooden swings that make for sweet photo opportunities and the play area under the stairs, featuring a wooden coffee machine, books and toys.
Helado — Coffee & Gelato Garden, 5/49 Tennyson Street, Rolleston, www.helado.co.nz
Utopia Ice Sumner
Another sweet treat must-try out in Sumner, Utopia Ice not only serves up seriously good scoops of ice cream and delectable desserts but has lots to keep small hands busy (once they’ve gobbled down their cone, of course). Its signature, colourful swing chair will be a hit, alongside toys and a rocking horse.
Utopia Ice Sumner, 15 Wakefield Avenue, Sumner, www.facebook.com/Utopiaice
Tūranga – Foundation Cafe
We love Tūranga on a dreary day, packed full of books and cool school holiday events, it’s a great spot to take toddlers and tweens alike. Imagination Station gets a big thumbs up, as does its interactive Discovery Wall, cosy spots to curl up and tons of games, toys and even a dressing-up corner. There is a small café cart by Foundation Cafe parked on the first floor of the kids’ area, so you can grab a coffee while the children do their thing.
Foundation Cafe, 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch Central City, www.foundationcafe.co.nz
Brighton Beach House
Overlooking Broad Park and Waimairi Beach, Brighton Beach House boasts a shaded and fenced playground for kids as well as top coffees, alcoholic drinks and a tempting food menu for all ages.
Brighton Beach House, 16A Beach Road, North New Brighton, www.brightonbeachhouse.co.nz
The Welder
With plenty of space for prams and sandwiched between Grizzly Bakery and Barefoot Eatery, The Welder has set up a play area that makes it easy for parents to enjoy a coffee and bite to eat while toddlers can play with pretend kitchens, books and baskets full of toys. Barefoot Eatery hosts a coffee group for mums on Monday mornings, complete with craft activities for kids and a fluffy/coffee combo for $7.
The Welder, 20-26 Welles Street, Christchurch Central City, www.thewelder.nz
Read more: Christchurch Coffee Groups: 7 Regular Meet-ups for Mums and Bubs
The Lil Brew
The perfect pitstop on the way to the beach, The Lil Brew is a cute cafe that caters for the kids both inside its iconic red cottage and outside in the sunshine. A small play corner has a variety of toys to play with including colouring pages, and outside at the front little ones can slide, play with trucks and dip in and out of the playhouse while you catch up over coffee and baked treats.
The Lil Brew, 186a Main Road, Redcliffs, www.thelilbrew.co.nz
White Rabbit Garden Cafe
The White Rabbit‘s resident bunnies aren’t the only draw to tempt us to make a pitstop at this garden cafe. Great food and its unique pirate-themed play area will guarantee to entertain all.
White Rabbit Garden Cafe, 1683 Christchurch Akaroa Road, Gebbies Valley, www.facebook.com/thewhiterabbitgardencafe
The Bower/Urban Corner Cafe
Sharing a large outdoor play area, The Bower and Urban Corner Cafe in New Brighton brings some much-needed peace for parents to enjoy a meal out or simply a hot coffee. Swings, monkey bars, slide and cubby will keep kiddos busy in between mouthfuls.
The Bower/Urban Corner Cafe, 487 New Brighton Road, New Brighton, www.facebook.com/UrbanCornerBowerTavern
Read more: These Child-Friendly Cafés Open Before 7.30am
Real Fruit Parlour
Located in Edgeware Village Real Fruit Parlour has a dedicated area for kids with plenty to play with and great food options (including real fruit ice cream). It is also next to a fruit and veggie store if you need to stock up.
Real Fruit Parlour, 1066E Colombo Street, St Albans, www.facebook.com/realfruitparlour
Kidds Cakes and Bakery
Not only is its cabinet packed full of delicious pies, cakes, scones and sandwiches, but Kidds Cakes and Bakery also take the biscuit when it comes to its play areas. Its indoor nook has plenty of role-play toys and the outdoor area features a slide, chalkboard and ride-ons.
Kidds Cakes and Bakery, 254 Cranford Street, St Albans, www.kiddscakes.co.nz
Dandelion & Clover
If you’re looking for a space where little ones can wear themselves out – Dandelion & Clover is a firm bet. Not only is its breakfast menu affordable, the gardens are home to local chickens and of course, its permanent bouncy castle is the star of the show. The cafe is open Tuesday and Wednesday 8am-2.30pm and Thursday and Sunday, 8am-9pm.
Dandelion & Clover, 1266 West Coast Road, West Melton, www.facebook.com/p/Dandelion-and-Clover
Black and White Coffee Cartel
A decent cup of coffee and a spacious kids’ corner – need we say more? Avonhead’s Black and White Coffee Cartel has a great food selection to savour while the kids enjoy playing with the toy kitchen, blackboards and chalk.
Black and White Coffee Cartel Avonhead, 45 Merrin Street, Avonhead, www.blackandwhitecoffee.co.nz
Dune Cafe
A community fave, Dune Cafe in South Brighton is a bright, beachy hub serving delicious brunch, desserts and cabinet must-eats. Its effortlessly cool vibe is accompanied by a semi-fenced play area and a dedicated corner with baskets of toys and a pretend kitchen inside. We also love its cubby house for sparking those big imaginations.
Dune Cafe, 51 Bridge Street, New Brighton, www.facebook.com/Dunecafesouthb
Cafe Raeward Harewood *THIS ESTABLISHMENT HAS CLOSED*
Seasoned mums with toddlers quickly add Harewood’s Cafe Raeward to their go-to list of restaurants and cafes with play areas. Fully fenced and outside in the fresh air, its playground is easily kept in view from the outdoor tables, meaning you can relax with a hot drink while the kids have fun.
Cafe Raeward, 800 Harewood Road, Harewood, www.raewardfresh.co.nz/cafe-raeward
Maddison Eatery
Maddson Eatery dishes a delicious food and drinks menu and is an ideal spot for families and mum dates. Much of the area is fenced off (as it’s next to a preschool) and kids can enjoy playing mini golf and life-size chess outside in the courtyard.
Maddison Eatery, 971 Goulds Road, Rolleston, www.maddisoneatery.co.nz
Meshino Cafe
Another fenced-in gem, Meshino‘s gated play area boasts a cubby house, slide and little tables and chairs. Located in the heart of St Albans, this character cafe has plenty of fresh food choices and treats to nibble on.
Meshino Cafe, 75 Rutland Street, St Albans, www.meshino.co.nz
The Station Cafe Rangiora
If you’re looking to enjoy coffee In peace, The Station Cafe out in Rangiora is making life easy for mums and caregivers. Its sandpit, play equipment, air hockey table (and yummy food) are sure to keep kiddos very happy.
The Station Cafe, 2 Blackett Street, Waimakariri, Rangiora, www.therangiorastation.co.nz
Read more: Choo, Choo! Train-Themed Playgrounds and Days Out in Christchurch
Qubed Coffee Lounge
Famed for its freak shakes, Qubed Coffee Lounge is the cutest spot for a date with the kids. Although not directly on site, the cafe sits right in front of plenty of green space and a playground. Perfect for older ones to enjoy while you grab a bite to eat, and an easy spot post-fluffy to entertain toddlers. There are also some toys and colouring books available next to the sofas.
Qubed Coffee Lounge, 1 Hamill Road, Halswell, www.facebook.com/QubedCoffeeLounge
Mitchelli’s Cafe Rinato
We love a good mooch around The Tannery, and what better way to round up a morning of shopping than with brunch and a caffeine boost? The baristas delight with their cute coffee (and fluffy) art, and the small but essential kids’ area with a couple of toys under the stairs will help to give you a moment to savour each sip.
Mitchelli’s Cafe Rinato, The Tannery, 3 Garlands Road, Woolston, www.facebook.com/mitchelliscafe
Colombus Coffee at Mitre 10 MEGA Papanui + Hornby
Not only does Mitre 10 and Colombus Coffee open bright early, but its indoor play area for kids is an easy go-to when you’re hoping to buy yourself an hour. Walking the aisles with a mini trolley is also a toddler favourite.
Bunnings Warehouse
Whipping up free fluffies with any purchase from their on-site cafe, their indoor playground is always a hit with littles when you need to pop in “for a few things.”
Bunnings Warehouse Riccarton, Christchurch Airport and Shirley, all have play areas for children, www.bunnings.co.nz
Terra Viva Home & Garden
With plenty of indoor space for prams, Terra Viva is a cute go-to for coffee and cabinet eats, a stroll around the garden centre and its aesthetic gift shop. Kids will enjoy the shelf of toys, trucks, blocks and puzzles.
Terra Viva Home & Garden, 242 Roydvale Avenue, Burnside, www.garden.terraviva.nz
Ris’tretto
Roasting their coffee in the heart of St Albans, Ris’tretto is an ideal spot for award-winning coffee, cabinet treats and a dedicated kids’ space to play in. Toys and books are all tucked away in an easy-to-watch corner.
Ris’tretto, 670 Barbadoes Street, St Albans, www.ristretto.co.nz
Coffee Culture, Christchurch International Airport
Most Coffee Cultures reliably have a play corner for kids, however, what we love most about the Airport’s branch is that you can close the door and children can safely play with all sorts of books and toys without the added stress of keeping them away from rolling luggage.
Coffee Culture, Christchurch International Airport Ground Floor/30 Durey Road, Christchurch Airport, www.coffeeculture.co.nz/stores/chch-airport
Christchurch Adventure Park
Not only are children under ten free to ride the trails and use the chairlift with an adult but the on-site cafe is surrounded by plenty of space to run around and a big trampoline to bounce on. Grab a map from the Visitor’s Centre and find all the fairy doors hidden in the village.
Christchurch Adventure Park, 225 Worsleys Road, Cracroft, www.christchurchadventurepark.com
Artisan by Rangiora Bakery
The Kid’s Zone at Artisan Cafe in Rangiora is a bright, inviting spot for children to play safely as doors can be shut. Grab a bowl of their “famous” curly fries and relax with a coffee.
Artisan by Rangiora Bakery, 8 High Street, Rangiora, www.rangiorabakery.com
Restaurants with play areas:
The Good Home Pegasus
Run with families in mind, The Good Home Pegasus‘ family-friendly ambience and relaxed atmosphere is the perfect spot for a weekend meal as kids enjoy the play area with a giant scrabble board. dedicated outdoor area with swings and climbing equipment, as well as Pegasus playground next door. Kids eat free from 5pm on Mondays.
The Good Home Pegasus, 62 Pegasus Main Street, Pegasus, www.thegoodhomepegasus.co.nz
Burger Burger
Tuck into a delicious patty while littles enjoy a kids’ menu paired with a selection of sides or classic chicken and chip combos. It’s a great spot to catch up with friends that won’t feel like just another place for the children but still ticks plenty of boxes, including a play area to explore, complete with a mini kitchen.
Burger Burger, 10 Welles Street, Christchurch Central City, www.burgerburger.co.nz
The Turf & One Good Horse, Parklands
A Christchurch parent’s go-to in Parklands, The Turf & One Good Horse serves pub-style classics alongside its top-rated children’s soft play area. Think Chipmunks on a much smaller scale, yet guaranteed to keep kids busy for as long as you need to finish your meal uninterrupted.
The Turf & One Good Horse, 6 Inwoods Road, Parklands, www.onegoodhorse.co.nz
Riverside Market
We love Riverside Market for its vast array of food options, meaning there is always something to keep little bellies full. Head upstairs with your meal and let kids explore the play area’s kitchen, toys, books and blackboard to draw on.
Riverside Market, 96 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central City, www.riverside.nz
The Laboratory, Lincoln
Unique in that it has a private cinema (perfect for indoor kids parties), The Laboratory in Lincoln is also a great spot for sunny days or cosy winter evenings. Its sizable grassy outdoor area backs onto Lincoln Library, with a large basket of toys, books and a retro bike to enjoy.
The Laboratory, 17 West Belt, Lincoln, www.thelaboratory.co.nz
Pineacres Bar & Restaurant
Not only is there a kids’ corner at Pineacres, but children can also eat free every Wednesday from 4pm at this family-friendly eatery.
Pineacres Bar & Restaurant, 740 Main North Road, Kaiapoi, www.facebook.com/Pineacresbarandrestaurant
Read more: Kids Eat Free at These Christchurch Restaurants
Heroes Burgers
Famed for their colourful buns and quirky superhero-themed interior, kids will love tucking into red, green and black burgers and exploring this burger joint’s fun details. There is a retro arcade machine to play while you wait, and the occasional meet and greet opportunity, too! If you’re lucky, you may just be served by Spider-Man.
Heroes Burgers, 205 Hills Road, Edgeware, www.facebook.com/Heroes.BurgersChch
Cobb & Co. Papanui
Cobb & Co’s main draw for parents of Papanui is its ‘Kids Game Area’ designed to be a safe and fun space for little ones while parents enjoy their food hot. Located next to the family section, the area has toys, TVs and games, as well as a fish tank that’s sure to buy you a few extra minutes for dessert.
Cobb & Co. Papanui, 484 Cranford Street, Redwood, www.cobb.co.nz
The Brook Bar & Eatery
With a dedicated children’s area upstairs, The Brook Bar and Eatery has set up arcade machines, a sofa, TV, video games and toys to keep kids happy.
The Brook Bar & Eatery, 16 Southbrook Road, Rangiora, www.thebrookbar.co.nz
Ma Maison Restaurant
We’re past Christchurch and into Akaroa territory, however, the playground next to the gorgeous Ma Maison Restaurant is too good not to share in our list of restaurants and cafes with play areas. If you’re making your way there for the weekend, be sure to stop for a coffee (read: wine) overlooking those stunning ocean views while kids explore the large playground next door.
Ma Maison Restaurant, 6 Rue Balguerie, Akaroa, www.mamaison.co.nz
Clubs with play areas:
Richmond Club, The Borough
With everything in one place, we can see why Richmond Club is “the place that the locals go.” Sporting a brand new, brightly coloured playground for kids, you’ll want to sign up quickly for a $30 yearly membership.
Richmond Club, The Borough, 75 London Street, Richmond, www.theborough.nz
Chalmers Restaurant, Hornby Club
Chalmers Restaurant at the Hornby Club is a top spot for food, drink and play in its indoor play area for kids. There’s also an outdoor playground next to its Pavillion Cafe which is fully fenced and free for the public.
Chalmers Restaurant, Hornby Club, 17 Carmen Road, Hornby, www.hornbywmc.co.nz
Papanui Club
Become a member and enjoy The Club Bar, a sunny, north-facing indoor and outdoor restaurant that looks over a fenced playground for littles.
Papanui Club, 310 Sawyers Arms Road, Bishopdale, www.papanuiclub.co.nz
Hotels with play areas:
The Plough Hotel
When searching for restaurants and cafes with play areas, don’t overlook hotels around Christchurch and Canterbury. The Plough Hotel in Rangiora is a family-favourite that doesn’t disappoint in its amenities for children, or its food offerings.
The Plough Hotel, 398 High Street, Rangiora, www.theploughhotel.co.nz
Tai Tapu Hotel, The Tap
One of our favourite outdoor eateries throughout the summer, The Tap at Tai Tapu Hotel also helps kids through the colder winter months with its year-round bouncy castles and a mini playground. Its kids menu hits the spot for toddlers while its food and drink offerings for grownups will see you happily sipping in the gardens for hours.
Tai Tapu Hotel, 780 Old Taitapu Road, Tai Tapu, www.taitapuhotel.com
Read more: Christchurch Cafés and Restaurants With Bouncy Castles for Kids
The Racecourse Hotel, Hoofbeats Bar & Bistro
If you’re after ‘family-friendly dining at modest prices’, consider Hoofbeats Bar & Bistro which also has a dedicated kids’ play area featuring plenty of paper and colouring pencils, as well as bean bags and toys.
The Racecourse Hotel, 118 Racecourse Road, Sockburn, www.racecoursehotel.co.nz/restaurant
Do you know of any restaurants and cafes with play areas for kids that we haven’t listed? Or would like to know more about how your establishment could be included? Send an email to [email protected]
Featured image property of nook NZ, images #1, #3, #4, #6, #7, #8, ,#9, #10, #15, #16 are property of nook NZ, all other images credited to respective businesses via Facebook.
