Keep these indoor playgrounds in your back pocket for a rainy day, or reprieve from that chaotic PAK’n’SAVE run.
Christchurch has some great playgrounds, but with the cooler weather and unpredictable rains, it’s always a good idea to have a list of indoor playgrounds on hand on those less-than-desirable days. Plus, they’ll give you the chance to enjoy a hot coffee while the little ones burn off some energy.
Shopping malls with indoor playgrounds:
Westfield Riccarton
The play space is located right outside Bed Bath ‘N Table on the 2nd floor, which is the perfect reprieve from a busy shopping day. Featuring a small slide, spaces to crawl through and games on the walls to interact with, it’s perfect for smaller children. There are also a few kiddie car rides just outside of the play area that prove popular!
Level 2, Westfield Riccarton, 129 Riccarton Road, Christchurch
The Colombo
The Colombo’s recently revamped, sea-themed play space boasts a large area for the kids to run around and is filled with plenty of toys and ride-ons to enjoy. The highlight is the wooden fort (shaped like a ship!) featuring a ship wheel, telescope and slide. Parents will be spoilt for food and coffee choices, with lots of seating just outside the playground.
363 Colombo Street, Christchurch
Northlands Shopping Centre
Nearby to the food court and just outside Build-A-Bear is a decently sized indoor playground at Northlands. Two slides, wall games, a climb-in helicopter, and a pretend car ensure that kids of all ages can make the most of the play space. Muffin Break is directly opposite (with seating facing the area), which is a great spot to set up on quiet days.
55 Main North Road, Christchurch
South City Shopping Centre
A good indoor playground option for those bigger kiddies (and confident toddlers) South City on Colombo Street is another gem to keep in your back pocket for a rainy day. Just by the food court, making it easy to grab a bite to eat, there is a decently-sized slide, climbing frame, tunnel and tiered platforms.
555 Colombo Street, Christchurch
The Palms Shopping Centre
A double whammy, The Palms indoor playground is a decently sized space for kids and conveniently located outside the Oasis Entertainment Centre. Perfect if you’re looking to extend the fun. The playground has a good-sized tunnel slide, stepping stones, and a fun crocodile to interact with.
Corner Marshland & New Brighton Road, Shirley, Christchurch
Eastgate Shopping Centre
Upstairs on the first floor, this indoor playground in Eastgate isn’t huge but will work magic if you need a few minutes to recoup. There is also an area next to the play space with coin-operated rides.
Level 1, 20 Buckleys Road, Linwood, Christchurch
Barrington Mall
Technically this one doesn’t count as an ‘indoor’ playground – but it is attached to the shopping centre and a good option for littles of all ages. Leading on to a large field and fenced directly from the car park – although not secure all the way around the domain – the playground is a big hit at all hours. We love that it has a sandpit, multiple slides for different abilities, swings, a rock climbing wall, and even nature play elements to explore.
256 Barrington Street, Spreydon, Christchurch
