Wait out the bad weather with happy and entertained tots at these top indoor activities for kids.
Rainy days can make it feel impossible to keep the kids entertained—especially when every home-based activity gets a big “boooooring.” If you’re itching to get out of the house, this list of 90 indoor activities for kids is your ultimate guide to fun in Christchurch when the weather won’t cooperate.
Read more: The Best Things to Do with Kids at Home When It’s Raining
Indoor activities for kids:
1. Trampoline parks are always a winner in a downpour, but if you’re yet to check out Flips & Tumbles in Wigram, the centre runs a dedicated toddler session on weekdays (during term time) from 9.30-11.30am, and 9-10am on weekends. The two-hour slot costs $14 for one preschooler and one adult, and you have access to both the main trampoline area and the unique jungle-themed room upstairs. When you’re finished, head to next door’s LeBakerman to refuel with caffeine and delicious baked goods.
2. Travel to Tūranga . The space is great for young children to relax with plenty of books and get creative when it’s raining in Christchurch. The kids’ section on level one of the library houses a big ‘Imagination Station’ – a spread of Lego and Duplo pits – including toys and a dress-up area. Stay for one of their weekly child-friendly events, including bilingual ‘Storytimes’ and an after-school ‘Activity Zone.’
Read more: 50 Free Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch
3. Get wet at an indoor swimming pool instead. Kids swim for free during term time at all recreation and sports centres in Christchurch, so grab your togs and make a morning of splashing about in one of the indoor pools on offer. Our favourites include Graham Condo which boasts a toddler pool with sprinkler fountains, Taiora QEII with its 130-metre-long hydro slide, leisure pool, lazy river, and splash deck with a water adventure playground, alongside Jellie Park and Pioneer Recreation and Sports Centre.
4. A classic wet weather activity in Christchurch, the Airforce Museum of New Zealand is the perfect indoor activity for little ones. Once the kids have had their fill of jumping in and out of replica cockpits, dressing up and interactive photo ops, the fun continues at home with its ‘AFM Kids’ activity centre – build your jet plane or get creative with some colouring, then share your masterpiece online with the hashtag #AFMKIDS.
5. Split a Freakshake at Qubed Coffee Lounge. Brighten a gloomy day with one of Qubed Coffee Lounge’s monstrous Freakshakes. Kids won’t believe their eyes (and luck!) at some creations coming out of the kitchen here. Located just across from the playground (in case the rain clears), split a shake and enjoy a cute and highly Instagrammable date with your little one. Bring a colouring book and enjoy a slow afternoon on one of their comfy couches. Brace yourself for the sugar high once you’re home!
6. Lunch and a play at The Colombo. Sadly The Colombo’s seaside-themed play area is no longer, but there is still a space to play onveniently across from plenty of coffee shops and delicious lunch spots. Although smaller, this semi-closed-in space still has a variety of toys, ride-ons and a fort with a slide to keep little hands busy for a while on those hard-to-fill days.
7. Love it or hate it, Chipmunks is an obvious go-to when the heavens open and kids are running wild. Boasting two locations, little ones can rush to their heart’s content while parents sip coffee and munch snacks from the on-site café. With no time limit, you can spend as long as you like zipping down slides, climbing and exploring until the rain stops.
8. Hot Chocolate at C1 Espresso. Perhaps one of the coolest hot drinks in Christchurch, C1 Espresso can print a photo of your kiddo straight onto a creamy hot choccy! Order from its pneumatic tube menu and follow your food as it makes its way through the piping around the café. There are plenty of hidden elements for children to discover such as a fly in their cups, hidden bookcases to the bathroom (which play the Harry Potter audiobooks!) and a cool little bus in the corner to play on.
9. Have a look around Te Ara Ātea. Don’t sleep on driving further afield to Rolleston Library during wet weather — the library has interactive elements to explore, like its peg wall, building blocks and native bird shape sorter. Choose a couple of books to take home to wait out the storm, grab a coffee and cake or stay for one of their preschooler or school-aged sessions such as sensory babytimes, storytimes, rhymetimes, bookclub, Lego and coding clubs. If the rain stops, there is also a sensory garden to play in which has music and water features.
10. Blocland, Uprising’s, specially designed kids’ climbing area is the perfect space to try bouldering, with climbs designed for smaller people in a safe area separate from the main gym. A maximum of 15 children are allowed in at one time, so you’ll want to book as soon as the forecast looks bleak. Stay for pizza and hot chips after your session.
11. Did you know about Christchurch’s ‘reading to dogs’ programme? Running most Tuesdays between 3.30-4.30pm at Te Hãpua: Halswell Centre, the hour-long session is designed to help reluctant readers gain confidence in a non-judgemental environment and audience. Available to book for ages 5-12 years, if the forecast looks ominous, register ahead of time and your child can come to the library and have a cosy one-on-one session with one of the friendly dogs.
12. Pick out new toys to play with at the Toy Library. Sign up for a toy library membership and take advantage of everything on offer to keep kiddos entertained with new, exciting toys while you wait out the rain. Hopefully, the novelty of playing with different things will allow you to take a breather.
13. Take your time and wander around the new exhibitions at the city’s Art Gallery. New family exhibitions are on all the time, and kids can also take part in the art trails available at the front desk. There are various interactive stations and games to enjoy at the front entrance, as well as a café for coffee and fluffies once you’ve finished.
14. Inflatable World, Hornby. If this sounds like your idea of hell, we get it. However, go mid-week (out of school holidays), and little ones will have much more space to roam giant inflatable slides, climbs, and bouncing areas. There’s a dedicated under-fives play space with a more gentle inflatable and an adjoining area with a slide, tunnel, stepping stones, and soft play.
15. The Welder. What could be better than hot coffee and delicious pastries on a dreary day? The Welder is a firm favourite of ours for its children’s play area, but if you haven’t been in a while, you’ll be grateful for Grizzly Bakery and its plentiful seating. Barefoot Eatery runs a mums and bubs coffee club on Mondays at 9.30am which is a great opportunity to connect with fellow parents. Their coffee and fluffy combo is $7, and it promises crafts, balloons, and toys to entertain toddlers.
16. When all else fails, embrace it. Book a session at New Brighton’s He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools and enjoy a warm swim in the rain. It’s bound to be quiet, and if the weather changes, you’re right next to the playground! Grab some lunch at Saturdays Café next door before calling it a day well spent.
18. Wait it out at Waffle Haus. If Waffle Haus on vibrant New Regent Street is still on your hit list, now is the time to go. Whether you’re a bacon and maple syrup kind of mama, or your little one is all about the chocolate, its drool-worthy menu is worth the sugar rush. Upstairs even has a small play area for kids complete with games, books and a chalkboard.
19. Head to The Palms for a play in their indoor playground
20. Embrace those cosy vibes and sip on hot chocolate sat She Chocolaterie Malthouse in Somerfield.
21. Explore Ruthford’s Den –– free multi-sensory displays and hands-on experiences –– at the Arts Centre. Take a trip upstairs to the Tiny Toy Shop to browse its array of sustainable toys (and a quick play with their magnet wands) then head for coffee and fluffies at Frances Nation.
22. Warm up with a trip through one of the Botanic Gardens’ Conservatories. Take your time meandering through its unique selection of flowers and plants., or pre-plan a scavenger hunt and get kids to spot different coloured flowers as you go.
23. Fill a flask full of hot chocolate, grab a few snacks, then park up at the designated parking zone at the end of the Christchurch Airport runway on Aviation Drive and watch as plans take off and land above your car.
24. Walk through Riverside Market sampling delicious treats, followed by downtime in the upstairs play area.
25. Take advantage of free entertainment for kids. From character appearances to crafts, storytimes and magic shows, if it starts to pour, click here to see what’s on at your local mall.
26. Now is the chance to check out one of Christchurch’s coffee groups for mums. The kids will be entertained with toys while you enjoy adult company and coffee.
27. Most drop-in playgroups run in rain or shine, so have a look at our list here and head over to help fill your morning.
28. Children under the age of four are free with a paying adult at the International Antarctic Centre, so if it’s tipping it down, spend the day indoors penguin-watching, husky hugging, experiencing a snowstorm and wandering (read: avoiding) the gift shop.
29. Keep dry and ride the tram. Watch the world go by while listening to a little Christchurch history as you go. Up to three children under the age of 15 can ride free of charge per paying adult.
30. Thankfully there are a few indoor playgrounds to retreat to when the rain starts to fall. Let the kids go wild on ride-ons and check out our list here for shopping malls with slides and more.
31. Take the tots thrifting. Pick out pre-loved outfits, toys, and second-hand books to take home and read under the covers. And if you have clothes to donate along the way, even better!
32. Get your groove on at one of many music and movement classes across the city. These drop-in sessions will calm busy bodies with plenty of songs and dancing.
33. Run, jump and climb away from the storm at a drop-in preschool gym class.
34. Beat boredom with a board game. Dice & Slice and Meepleopolis are popular options for kids to test out plenty of games while enjoying food and drink.
35. Go for a manicure with your mini. After all, what could be cuter than a trip to the spa followed by fluffies? Here’s a list of our favourite spots.
36. Bunnings and Mitre 10 remain our ride or die on a rainy day. Indoor playground, mini shopping trolleys, hot coffee… need we say more.
37. Head to One Good Horse in Parklands for a decent meal and soft play for kids. We’d suggest going on a weekday to avoid big crowds.
38. McDonalds. The kids get a Happy Meal, and you get a break! We love the one in Riccarton for its indoor playground and the Rolleston branch for slightly bigger kids.
39. Play ten-pin bowling or try laser tag at Zone Bowling Garden City. Grab a pass that includes both from $24 per child.
40. Stroll around Selwyn Sports Centre‘s 240m indoor mezzanine walking track. $3 casual entry per person, or join ‘The Selwyn Striders’, a 60-minute walk followed by complimentary tea, coffee and a biscuit. It’s also pram-friendly!
41. Check out the Canterbury Museum Pop-up at CoCA. Open between 9-5pm, half the pop-up Museum is “dedicated to collection highlights and visitor favourites from the Museum’s permanent galleries. The other half displays temporary exhibitions.”
42. Explore Riccarton House & Bush and stay for Story Times between 10.30-11am every Friday. Expect stories, bubbles, free fluffies and more. No bookings are required, a gold coin donation is appreciated.
43. If your little one has been begging for a Build-A-Bear, perhaps now could be the time to cave. The stuffing of the bear, naming and heart ceremony is heart-warming to watch, and the store is right outside Northland’s indoor playground. Basic bears start from $20.
44. Head to the cinema! If your tots are too small to sit still for a standard viewing, consider HOYTES’ Prams at the Pix, a specially designed screening for younger kids with dimmed lights and the sound softened. Popcorn is non-negotiable.
45. Treat the kids to a ‘Crookie’. Merivale’s NOKI is currently all the rage, featuring an epic slice of Crookie cake that can’t be beaten.
46. Load the kids in the car and make your way over to Copenhagen Bakery for its top-tier pig fluffy. The little ones will not be disappointed, and you’ll get a cute Instagram story.
47. Babytimes and Storytimes at your local library is always a rainy day hit in our books. Running during term time, these half-hour, cosy sessions promise music, movement, rhymes, stories and more. Check out all the free library activities on offer here.
48. Take your tot on a date. Delante Artisan Bakery is just off Eastfield Drive in Lincoln and serves up wood-fired pizza, calzone, and delicious sandwiches that are all seriously toddler-approved. They are also made in view, keeping kiddos entertained as you wait to tuck in. If the rain stops, it’s a quick drive to Te Whariki Playground with a big slide, water run, sensory sound bridge, and pump track.
49. Children over five are welcome to join their grown-ups for a session at Catnap Cafe. Eat cake, sip hot choccies and play with gorgeous cats and kittens for an hour.
50. If your kids love running, climbing, and testing their agility, Ninja Valley in Bush Inn is the perfect spot. With ninja courses, climbing walls, and plenty of space to burn energy, it’s like an indoor playground on steroids. Whether they’re racing through obstacles or practising their balance, it’s guaranteed fun—rain or shine.
51. Go on a Sushi Date. Make mealtime an adventure with a sushi date at The Sushi Shop in Rolleston. Spend $30 or more, and your kids get free access to their Mini Sushi Train, a fun and interactive way to deliver their meal. Watching their sushi arrive on a tiny train makes eating out extra exciting (and keeps them happily entertained while you enjoy yours).
52. For a hands-on rainy-day adventure, head to Creative Junk and hunt for craft treasures. This recycled art hub is packed with odds and ends perfect for creative projects, from fabric scraps to cardboard tubes. Let the kids fill a bag with supplies and turn a wet afternoon into a crafting masterpiece at home
53. Mini golf is always a win, and Alice in Putterland takes it up a notch with glowing neon obstacles and a whimsical, wonderland vibe. Prefer a more classic mini-golf experience? Caddyshack City is another great option, and little golfers under three can play for free.
54. Explore Quake City. This interactive museum is packed with hands-on activities that make learning about Christchurch’s earthquakes fun for kids. Some highlights include:
- LEGO City – Design and build your own structures at the LEGO station (we spent ages here!).
- Jump Test – See how much of a shake you can register on the seismograph.
- Liquefaction Simulator – Stick your hand in and feel the weird, watery texture.
- Activity Hunt – Grab an activity sheet, complete the challenges, and win a prize.
55. For little ones with energy to burn, MoveX offers preschooler sessions Monday to Friday from 9:30 am – 1 pm for just $10. And if you mention this post from nook NZ at MoveX Café, you’ll score a free kids fluffy—a win for both kids and parents!
56. A full-blown indoor entertainment zone, Archie Brothers is packed with arcade games, bowling, dodgems, and VR experiences. It’s an easy way to spend hours of fun indoors when the weather’s not playing nice.
57. For a challenge that’s great for older kids, head to Codebreakers and try one of their escape rooms. And if you’ve got a Swiftie in the family, they even have a Taylor Swift-themed room!
58. For adventurous kids, The Adventure Centre on Waltham Road offers a large climbing wall and Clip ‘n Climb. On Wednesday and Thursdays, they run Little Monkeys sessions, perfect for younger climbers looking to build confidence.
59. Feel the need for speed? Supa Karts is an indoor go-karting track that offers high-speed fun for kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to inject some adrenaline into a rainy day.
60. Glide across the rink at Alpine Ice Sports Centre. Whether your kids are experienced skaters or just getting started, it’s a fun way to stay active indoors. Keep an eye out for family sessions and special events.
61. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, Tumble Times sessions have been a long-time favourite among Christchurch parents. These structured play sessions include space to run, climb, and jump, plus organised games and music time. A lifesaver for rainy weekday mornings!
62. Every Saturday between 9-11am, Selwyn Sports Centre transforms into a giant soft play circuit. Costing just $3, kids can climb, balance, jump, and roll while parents guide the fun. No bookings needed—just turn up and let them burn off some energy!
63. Treat Your tot to pastries at LeBakermen. For a relaxed morning out, grab a delicious flaky pastry or two at Le Bakermens. They’ve got colouring books and a toy shelf, so your little one can stay entertained while you enjoy your coffee.
64. Some cafes take fluffies to the next level, making them an adventure all on their own. These spots serve up the coolest fluffies in town, complete with sprinkles, marshmallows, and even tiny chocolate fish.
65. If you need to stock up on kids’ clothes without spending a fortune, Dress Smart is a go-to. And if a little bribery is needed? The shopping centre has plenty of coin-operated rides scattered around, ready to keep little ones entertained.
66. Who doesn’t love a little friendly competition? Laser Strike is a great way to burn off some energy and put those teamwork skills to the test. Whether you’re teaming up or going head-to-head, it’s always a blast.
67. For a little history with your indoor adventure, tour Kate Sheppard House and learn about the incredible story of New Zealand’s suffrage movement. It’s a great way to introduce kids to one of Aotearoa’s most inspiring figures.
68. Ever wondered how rock candy is made? SWEET in Papanui creates delicious handcrafted treats right before your eyes. They usually have set making times on Saturdays and school holidays, which they post on social media, but you can also give them a call to check when they’ll be making magic.
69. If you’re in need of a sweet pick-me-up, head to the Cookie Time Factory Shop. Packed with freshly baked cookies, factory seconds, and bulk deals, it’s heaven for little biscuit lovers. Take some home for a movie day complete with snuggly blankets.
70. Launch Pad just got even better for little ones! Especially on a rainy day. Their new tot area is packed with soft play, plus there’s indoor trampolines and a cycle track for the bigger kids.
71. Swap the rain for a cosy riverside café and watch the Avon River flow by from the warmth indoors. Grab a coffee and a fluffy from Antigua Boat Sheds, and if there’s a break in the weather, take a stroll along the riverbank. If you’re feeling adventurous, keep an eye out for bike and canoe hire for sunnier days—but for now, staying snug inside with good food and a great view sounds just right.
72. Rainy days call for comfort food, and Little High Eatery delivers. With plenty of vendors under one roof, there’s something to keep everyone happy—whether it’s tacos, pizza, or dumplings. Grab a seat, watch the kitchen action, and let the kids marvel at all the delicious choices while you stay warm and dry.
73. A rainy day is the perfect excuse to unleash your child’s inner artist. Head to The Arts Centre for a kid-friendly Paint ‘n’ Sip session, where little ones can get messy, creative, and inspired. With all supplies provided, all they need to bring is their imagination—no clean-up required for you!
74. When the weather keeps you indoors, dive into a new adventure at Telling Tales Children’s Bookshop. This charming store is packed with books for every young reader, plus a cosy reading nook to settle in with a story. Need a break from browsing? Little ones can get hands-on at the Duplo table while you take your time picking the perfect book.
75. Another for art-loving parents, Christchurch Art Gallery offers the perfect excuse to get out of the house, rain or shine. On the first Thursday of the month, join a free, guided tour designed for grown-ups with little ones in tow. Oh, Baby, It’s Art starts at 10:15am and takes you on a 30-minute stroll through the latest exhibitions—prams welcome! Best suited for parents of snoozing babies, as the tour content is aimed at adults.
76. When the rain puts outdoor animal encounters on hold, a trip to a pet store can be the next best thing. Watching colourful fish dart around or spotting rabbits and cats up for adoption makes for some easy, free entertainment. Redwood Aquatics – Aquarium and Water Garden Centre is a great pick, with freshwater and tropical fish, reptiles, and more to admire. It’s like a mini zoo visit—without the entry fee!
77. When it’s too wet for the playground, Tumbling Tots offers a warm, dry space for babies to explore and play. Held Tuesdays from 9:30–11am at the Burwood Plunket Rooms, this koha-based playgroup is perfect for little ones aged 6–18 months to crawl, climb, and socialise. Plus, once a month, fifth-year medical students pop in as part of their paediatric rotation—a great chance to chat with them while your tot plays.
78. Dreary weather calls for good coffee and a place for the kids to play, and London Canteen by Table Bloom delivers both. Formerly Urban Eatery, this revamped café in Spreydon has a fresh menu, a spacious play area, and plenty of pram-friendly seating. Let little ones enjoy the sandpit and books while you relax with a hot drink. Bonus: pop next door to the garden centre for a Springfree trampoline and a small playground—perfect for burning off energy between showers.
79. A rainy day is the perfect time to go fossil hunting—indoors! Head to Mamlambo Fossils in Waikuku and explore a collection of fossils found and prepped on-site. Kids can dig out their own fossils, get hands-on with crabs, trilobites, shark teeth, and more, and try their hand at fossil identification. Touching the fossils is encouraged, making this a truly interactive experience. Open Sundays 10-2pm.
80. A wet day is the perfect excuse to cosy up at Kidd’s Cakes & Bakery. Their packed cabinet of pies, cakes, and scones is reason enough to visit, but the indoor play nook makes it even better for families.
81. Escape the drizzle with a wander through The Tannery, then warm up at Mitchelli’s Café Rinato. The baristas’ coffee and fluffy art is almost too cute to drink, and the small kids’ area under the stairs has just enough toys to keep little ones entertained while you savour each sip.
82. For a rainy-day treat, swap the usual fluffy for dainty’s famous hot chocolate—a rich, creamy delight topped with melted and toasted marshmallows. It’s the ultimate way to warm up and indulge on a chilly day.
83. Rainy days got everyone a bit stir-crazy? Addington Rage Cage is the ultimate indoor smash room experience, where kids 14 and under can unleash their energy with adult supervision. There’s no age limit, but a waiver is required for under 18s—so parents, get ready to sign up and let them break stuff (safely, of course).
85. Don’t let the rain keep you stuck indoors—squeeze in a workout while the kids stay entertained! These child-friendly gym classes let you stay active without the hassle of finding a sitter. Whether it’s parent-friendly fitness sessions, supervised play areas, or classes designed for little ones, there are plenty of ways to burn off energy together.
86. When the weather isn’t playing nice, the Lego Store at Westfield Riccarton is a great place to keep little hands busy. Beyond the walls of Lego and Duplo, kids can dive into interactive fun with the building wall, create-your-own minifigure station, and more.
87. For a retro way to burn off energy indoors, check out PhatSk8 Roller Discos. They run regular public skating sessions at various halls across Christchurch, with skates and safety gear included for $12 per person. Perfect for a rainy-day activity that gets everyone moving!
88. Looking for a rainy-day treat that feels a little bit fancy? The Store in Tai Tapu does a Kid’s High Tea for $29.50 per child, packed with tiny, tasty delights. It’s the perfect excuse to sip, snack, and make an afternoon of it. Just make sure to book ahead!
89. Rain all week? Keep the kids entertained with a Messy Mates “Take Me Home” play kit. For $40, you get a two-day hire with everything you need for sensory fun without the hassle. Just pick a theme, grab one of their trays, and let the kids go wild—without you having to do all the hard work yourself!
90. If in doubt, stay in your pyjamas and switch on Disney+. We’re not here to judge…
Featured image courtesy of Pexels, image #1 credited to Flips & Tumbles via Facebook, image #2 credited to Qubed Coffee Lounge via Facebook, all other images property of nook NZ.
