Kid-Friendly Cafes, Family-Friendly Restaurants & Places to Eat with Playgrounds
Time to organise that playdate! If you’re searching for cafes with play areas in Christchurch where the kids can play while you enjoy a coffee or meal, you’ve found your go-to guide. Whether you’re meeting other parents, planning a family brunch, or looking for somewhere fun to dine with toddlers, this list of kid-friendly cafes in Christchurch is exactly what you need.
Bookmark this page for the next time you’re wondering where to go with kids in tow. We’ve done the hard work for you, compiling the best cafes and restaurants with playgrounds, indoor play spaces, and child-friendly amenities across Christchurch and beyond.
Know a cafe we’ve missed? Or has something changed? Drop us a message so we can keep this list of family-friendly cafes in Christchurch up to date for the #nooknz community!
Read more: Christchurch Pubs, Bars and Beer Gardens With Play Areas for Kids
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Cafes with play areas
Restaurants with play areas
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Hotels with play areas
Cafes with play areas in Christchurch:
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.
Why we love it:
- Indoor kids’ corner with books and games
- Great central city location (and close to the library!)
- Perfect spot for a special treat
Address: 12 New Regent Street, Christchurch Central City
Website: www.wafflehaus.co.nz
Open Book Café at Parklands Library, Christchurch
Tucked next to Parklands Library, Open Book Café is one of those rare gems that makes catching up with kids in tow feel easy. The fully fenced outdoor area is packed with play gear—think scooters, bikes, and a play kitchen—plus there’s plenty of space for prams and roaming toddlers. Inside the library, you’ll find toys, books, and cosy corners to explore. If you’re short on time, you can even order coffee from outside—ideal for a quick stop during a car nap.
Why we love it:
- Fully fenced outdoor play area
- Scooters, bikes, and a play kitchen
- Library packed with toys and books
- Drive-by coffee option for busy days
Address: 46 Queenspark Drive, Parklands, Christchurch
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.
Why we love it:
- Outdoor play area with sandpit
- Delicious cakes and treats
- Plenty of space for prams outside
- Beautiful garden setting
Address: 40 Rhodes Road, Selwyn, Tai Tapu
Website: www.aspberrycafe.co.nz
Coffee Culture Beckenham
You can usually count on Coffee Culture to be reliable cafes with play areas in Christchurch, 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.
Why we love it:
- Large, separate space for kids to play
- No-fuss menu and cabinet food
- Convenient location with nearby shopping
Address: 140 Colombo Street, Sydenham
Website: www.coffeeculture.co.nz/stores/beckenham
Under the Red Verandah – Linwood
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.
Why we love it:
- Kids’ menu ranging from $5-$12
- Outdoor seating with space for prams
- Plenty of toys to play with
- Shaded area perfect for hot days
Address: 29 Tancred Street, Linwood
Website: www.utrv.co.nz
Moment Café – Central City
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!
Why we love it:
- Playpen for babies and toddlers
- Early opening hours (7:30 AM)
- Kids eat free on Mondays
- Great kids menu with healthy options
Address: 87 Manchester Street, Christchurch Central City
Website: www.momentcafe.co.nz
Read more: These Child-Friendly Cafés Open Before 7.30am
Helado Coffee & Gelato Garden – Rolleston
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.
Why we love it:
- Kids play corner with toys, books and colouring
- Wooden swings for fun photo opportunities
- Amazing ice cream, pastries and coffees
- Right across the road from Rolleston Library
Address: 5/49 Tennyson Street, Rolleston
Website: 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.
Why we love it:
- Iconic swing chair perfect for photos
- Toys and rocking horse for entertainment
- Great spot to cool off or enjoy a treat
- Beautiful Sumner location near the beach
Address: 15 Wakefield Avenue, Sumner
Website: www.facebook.com/Utopiaice
Tūranga Foundation Cafe – Central City
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.
Why we love it:
- Perfect rainy day spot with endless activities
- Cafe cart on the children’s floor
- Toilets with changing tables
- Free activities and events
Address: 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch Central City
Website: www.foundationcafe.co.nz
Brighton Beach House – New Brighton
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.
Why we love it:
- Fenced playground area for safety
- Kids menu with healthy options
- Close to playgrounds and the beach
- Beautiful coastal views
Address: 16A Beach Road, North New Brighton
Website: www.brightonbeachhouse.co.nz
The Welder – Central City
With plenty of space for prams and sandwiched between Grizzly Bakery and Barefoot Eatery, The Welder has set up a small 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.
Why we love it:
- Plenty of food and coffee options nearby
- Great space for prams
- Changing table for babies
- Central location with multiple dining options
Address: 20-26 Welles Street, Christchurch Central City
Website: www.thewelder.nz
Read more: Christchurch Coffee Groups: 7 Regular Meet-ups for Mums and Bubs
The Lil Brew – Redcliffs
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 indoor play corner has a variety of toys to play with, including colouring pages, and outside there are two play spaces where little ones can slide, play with trucks and dip in and out of the playhouse while you catch up over coffee and baked treats. Don’t skip the cute gift shop upstairs either!
Why we love it:
- Three play areas for kids to choose from
- Fluffies, coffees and baked treats
- Frequently has weekend events for kids
- Toilet with changing table
- Gift shop upstairs for browsing
Address: 186a Main Road, Redcliffs
Website: www.thelilbrew.co.nz
Darfield Bakery, Selwyn
Darfield Bakery is one of those spots that makes the drive totally worth it. Known for its proper pies, fresh baking, and seriously good coffee, it also comes with a fenced outdoor play area that’s perfect for families. There’s a playhouse, toys, and room for the kids to roam while you actually get to enjoy your flat white in peace. Bonus: McHughs Fairy Forest is just next door if you’re up for a post-café wander.
Why we love it:
- Fully fenced play area with toys and a playhouse
- Top-notch pies, fresh baking, and great coffee
- Easy morning outing from Christchurch
- Close to McHughs Fairy Forest
Address: 60 South Terrace, Darfield, Selwyn
Website: www.darfieldbakery.com/
White Rabbit Garden Cafe – Gebbies Valley
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 ages.
Why we love it:
- Resident bunnies kids can visit
- Large grassy area to play
- Themed play area with football goals and balls
- Kids menu with healthy options
Address: 1683 Christchurch Akaroa Road, Gebbies Valley
Website: www.facebook.com/thewhiterabbitgardencafe
The Bower/Urban Corner Cafe – New Brighton
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. Slide and cubby house will keep kiddos busy in between mouthfuls.
Why we love it:
- Large outdoor space for kids to play
- Slide and playhouse with toys
- Plenty of seating for families
- Shared space means more amenities
Address: 487 New Brighton Road, New Brighton
Website: www.facebook.com/UrbanCornerBowerTavern
Real Fruit Parlour – Edgeware
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’s also next to a fruit and veggie store if you need to stock up.
Why we love it:
- Large play area with lots of toys
- Famous frog fluffies
- Cute theming throughout
- Convenient location next to fresh produce
Address: 1066E Colombo Street, St Albans
Website: www.facebook.com/realfruitparlour
Kidds Cakes and Bakery – St Albans
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.
Why we love it:
- Two play spaces to choose from
- Plenty of food options for kids
- Colouring activities available
- Great bakery selection
Address: 254 Cranford Street, St Albans
Website: www.kiddscakes.co.nz
Dandelion & Clover – West Melton
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.
Why we love it:
- Bouncy castle for active play
- Toilet with changing table
- Colouring activities
- Plenty of space to play and explore
Address: 1266 West Coast Road, West Melton
Website: www.facebook.com/p/Dandelion-and-Clover
Black and White Coffee Cartel – Avonhead
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.
Why we love it:
- Spacious cafe play area
- Plenty of food and drink options for kids
- Interactive play equipment
- Great coffee and cabinet food
Address: 45 Merrin Street, Avonhead
Website: www.blackandwhitecoffee.co.nz
Dune Cafe – South Brighton
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 and mud kitchen for sparking those big imaginations.
Why we love it:
- Indoor and outdoor play areas
- Mud kitchen for creative play
- Great brunch menu
- Mostly fenced for safety
Address: 51 Bridge Street, New Brighton
Website: www.facebook.com/Dunecafesouthb
Maddison Eatery – Rolleston
Maddison Eatery dishes up 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.
Why we love it:
- Mini golf and life-size chess
- Fenced area for safety
- Great for family dining
- Unique play activities
Address: 971 Goulds Road, Rolleston
Website: www.maddisoneatery.co.nz
Meshino Cafe – St Albans
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.
Why we love it:
- Fully gated play area for safety
- Cubby house and slide
- Character building with charm
- Fresh food and treats
Address: 75 Rutland Street, St Albans
Website: 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, and air hockey table (and yummy food) are sure to keep kiddos very happy.
Why we love it:
- Sandpit and play equipment
- Air hockey table for older kids
- Great food selection
- Peaceful setting for parents
Address: 2 Blackett Street, Waimakariri, Rangiora
Website: www.therangiorastation.co.nz
Qubed Coffee Lounge – Halswell
Famed for their 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.
Why we love it:
- Famous freak shakes kids love
- Adjacent to playground and green space
- Toys and colouring books inside
- Great for post-park coffee
Address: 1 Hamill Road, Halswell
Website: www.facebook.com/QubedCoffeeLounge
Station Coffee, Methven
If you’re after a family-friendly day trip from Christchurch, Station Coffee in Methven is a must. With great coffee, a huge indoor play space, and fluffies stacked with toppings, it’s got everything you need for a smooth outing with kids in tow. There’s a wooden play zone, toy kitchen and café setup for your mini baristas, plus a cute retail corner and a changing area on site.
Why we love it:
- Massive indoor play space with wooden toys
- Pretend café and kitchen for kids
- Excellent coffee and fun fluffies
- On-site changing area and retail shop
Address: 21 Forest Drive, Methven 7730
Website: www.facebook.com/stationcoffee.nz
Additional Christchurch Cafes with Play Areas
Mitchelli’s Cafe Rinato – The Tannery, Woolston
Small but essential kids’ area under the stairs with toys, perfect for shopping breaks.
Columbus Coffee at Mitre 10 MEGA – Papanui + Hornby
Indoor play area plus mini trolleys for toddlers to push around.
Bunnings Warehouse Cafes – Riccarton, Airport & Shirley
Free fluffies with purchase and indoor playgrounds at all locations.
Terra Viva Home & Garden – Burnside
Shelf of toys, trucks, blocks and puzzles while browsing the garden centre.
Ris’tretto – St Albans
Award-winning coffee with a dedicated kids’ space featuring toys and books.
Coffee Culture Airport
Enclosed play area with door that closes – perfect for safe play away from airport crowds.
Christchurch Adventure Park – Cracroft
Big trampoline and space to run around, plus fairy doors to find!
Artisan by Rangiora Bakery
Enclosed Kids’ Zone with doors that shut, plus famous curly fries.
Cheeky Sparrow – The Hub Hornby
Small play area with a TV and wall activities
Restaurants with play areas in Christchurch:
The Halswell, Christchurch
The Halswell is a great new spot for families, with a fully fenced playground that’s perfect for little adventurers. There’s a toddler-friendly fort, climbing equipment, and plenty of space to burn off energy while you enjoy a hot coffee or relaxed meal. Inside, you’ll find a cosy bar area and indoor dining, with bar snacks available during the week and breakfast served on weekends.
Why we love it:
- Fully fenced outdoor playground
- Toddler-friendly climbing gear and fort
- Indoor dining and bar space
- Open from 9am—perfect for a mid-morning visit
Address: 344 Halswell Road, Halswell, Christchurch
Website: www.thehalswell.co.nz
The Good Home Pegasus
Run with families in mind, The Good Home Pegasus offers family-friendly ambience and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for weekend meals. Kids enjoy the play area with giant scrabble board and toys, dedicated outdoor area with swings and climbing equipment, plus Pegasus playground next door. Kids eat free from 5pm on Mondays.
Address: 62 Pegasus Main Street, Pegasus
Website: www.thegoodhomepegasus.co.nz
Burger Burger – Central City
Tuck into a delicious patty while littles enjoy a kids’ menu paired with classic sides or chicken and chip combos. 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 complete with mini kitchen.
Address: 10 Welles Street, Christchurch Central City
Website: www.burgerburger.co.nz
Cluck’IZ, Christchurch
This local spot on Cranford Street is nailing the family-friendly vibes with a huge, fully fenced indoor play area that’s packed with toys and space to run. Pair that with their crispy fried chicken, loaded fries, and toddler-approved kids’ menu, and you’ve got a winning combo for both adults and little ones. It’s also just around the corner from Chipmunks Papanui if you’re keen to make a morning of it.
Why we love it:
- Huge fenced indoor play area
- Loads of toys
- Kids’ menu with toddler-friendly options
- Great fried chicken and loaded fries
Address: 478 Cranford Street, St Albans, Christchurch
Website: www.cluckiz.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.
Address: 6 Inwoods Road, Parklands
Website: www.onegoodhorse.co.nz
Riverside Market – Central City
We love Riverside Market for its vast array of food options, meaning there’s 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.
Address: 96 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central City
Website: 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.
Address: 17 West Belt, Lincoln
Website: www.thelaboratory.co.nz
Additional Restaurants with Play Areas
Pineacres Bar & Restaurant – Kaiapoi
Kids eat free every Wednesday from 4pm at this family-friendly eatery.
Heroes Burgers – Edgeware
Superhero-themed interior with retro arcade machine and meet-and-greet opportunities.
Cobb & Co. Papanui
Kids Game Area with toys, TVs, games and fish tank next to family section.
The Brook Bar & Eatery – Rangiora
Dedicated children’s area upstairs with arcade machines, TV and video games.
Ma Maison Restaurant – Akaroa
Large playground next door with stunning ocean views
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.
Address: 75 London Street, Richmond
Website: 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.
Address: 17 Carmen Road, Hornby
Website: 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.
Address: 310 Sawyers Arms Road, Bishopdale
Website: www.papanuiclub.co.nz
Hotels with play areas in Christchurch:
The Plough Hotel – Rangiora
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.
Address: 398 High Street, Rangiora
Website: 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 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.
Address: 780 Old Taitapu Road, Tai Tapu
Website: 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.
Address: 118 Racecourse Road, Sockburn
Website: www.racecoursehotel.co.nz/restaurant
Tips for Parents Visiting Christchurch Cafes with Kids
Before You Go:
- Check cafe websites or social media for kids eat free deals on specific days
- Bring sunscreen and hats for cafes with outdoor play areas
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience
Make It a Full Day:
- Pair your café visit with nearby attractions like beach walks or library visits
- Many cafes are located near playgrounds, libraries, or shopping areas
- Plan your route to include multiple family-friendly stops
What to Expect:
- Most family-friendly cafes have changing tables and high chairs available
- Many offer kids’ menus with healthy options and reasonable prices
- Indoor play areas are perfect for rainy days, while outdoor spaces are great for burning energy
Popular Features at Christchurch Family Cafes:
- Fenced play areas for safety and peace of mind
- Bouncy castles at several locations
- Sandpits and mud kitchens for creative play
- Toy corners with books, games, and pretend play equipment
Find More Family-Friendly Spots in Christchurch
Looking for more places to take the kids? Check out these related guides:
- Christchurch Pubs, Bars and Beer Gardens With Play Areas for Kids
- Christchurch Coffee Groups: Regular Meet-ups for Mums and Bubs
- Kids Eat Free at These Christchurch Restaurants
- Christchurch Cafés and Restaurants With Bouncy Castles for Kids
- Child-Friendly Cafés Open Before 7.30 am
- Train-Themed Playgrounds and Days Out in Christchurch
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.
