Whether you’re flying domestically or overseas, you’ll want to read our top tips for navigating Christchurch Airport with kids in tow.
Travelling with kids can be challenging—and sometimes downright stressful—but Christchurch Airport is on our side. With a variety of family-friendly facilities and activities to keep little ones entertained, navigating the terminal can actually be a pleasant experience. Whether you’re waiting for a flight or greeting family, check out our guide to making your time at Christchurch Airport with kids a little more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Read more: Christchurch Mums Reveal Their Travel “Must-Haves” For Long-Haul Flights With Kids
Your guide to Christchurch Airport with kids:
Child-friendly facilities and shops:
Parent Rooms
Having a calm spot to recharge is crucial. Christchurch Airport features 13 thoughtfully designed parent rooms throughout the terminal, each tailored to meet your family’s needs. The standout parent room in International Departures offers a play area, private feeding spaces, and even a junior toilet—perfect for managing the chaos of little ones. In the main check-in area, you’ll find two additional rooms with changing tables and showers, and the upstairs food court has similar amenities.
Where to shop at Christchurch Airport with kids:
Need to pick up a few bits for the kids? These family-friendly shops stock the essentials (read: toys and entertainment)
- Kids toys and souvenirs – Aelia Duty Free, Explore, The Gift Company, Relay
- Clothing – Global Culture, Explore, Naturally NZ, The Official All Blacks Store
- Books and games – Relay, Hub Café & Bar
- Baby products – Unichem Spitfire Square, Woolworths Spitfire Square
Things to do at Christchurch Airport with kids:
Themed Air Bridges
A unique highlight of Christchurch Airport is its themed air bridges, turning the typical airport bustle into an immersive journey. As you walk through these bridges, you’ll encounter striking visuals of South Island’s iconic landscapes, enhanced by distinct sounds and scents. From the mesmerising Mackenzie Night Sky to the serene beauty of Abel Tasman, each bridge captures a different facet of our stunning region.
Canterbury Planes Giant Puzzle
If you have a little puzzle lover in your crew, make sure to check out the Canterbury Planes giant puzzle in the Domestic Arrivals area. This oversized puzzle features two beautiful images inspired by the South Island’s landscapes, and it’s a great way to keep kids entertained while you wait for your bags.
Mini Explorer Activity Book
And to keep boredom at bay, grab a Mini Explorer Activity Book from one of the airport information desks. Packed with fun facts, colouring pages, and even a postcard to send to friends and family, this book is the ultimate travel companion. Pair it with a pack of pencils, and you’re set for at least an hour.
Play Me Piano
For those with a musical flair, don’t miss the Play Me piano! It’s your chance to showcase your talent or just have some fun playing a tune. Donated by The Vocal Collective and designed by local artist Paul Walters, this piano is perfect for breaking the ice and maybe even starting a spontaneous airport jam session. Just look for the “Play Me” sign!
Table Tennis Tables
If you’re looking to burn off some energy, swing by the table tennis tables in the plaza. They’re open 24/7 and free to use, making them a great spot to challenge a family member or meet fellow travellers for a quick match.
Colouring Wall
For the budding artists in your crew, the colouring wall across from Burger King on the first floor is an open invitation to unleash their creativity. With plenty of space to draw and colour, kids can express themselves while you sit back and enjoy a well-deserved coffee.
Antarctic Walkway
If you’ve got some time to kill and want to swing by the International Antarctic Centre, the Antarctic Walkway is a cool spot to check out. It connects the airport to the centre and doubles as an interactive art piece that reacts to your movements with light and sound. Inspired by the beauty of Antarctic pack ice and the Ellsworth Mountains, the walkway has these cool angled modules that create a neat visual vibe. For the full experience, try to visit after dark—kids will love the magical effects from the Echoes audio and lighting system
More info on things to do with at Christchurch Airport with kids here.
Where to eat at Christchurch Airport with kids:
When hunger strikes, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at Christchurch Airport.
Coffee Culture
Coffee Culture is your go-to spot for great coffee and tasty food. With a dedicated playroom for kids, parents can enjoy their caffeine fix while the little ones have fun.
FlyThru Café
On the go? Stop by FlyThru Café for quick coffee and snacks that keep you fueled without missing a beat. Whether it’s a pastry or a light bite, this café has you covered for those busy travel days.
Fush
Craving something iconic? Head to Fush for delicious fish and chips, fried chicken, and bao buns.
Tank
For smoothie-obsessed toddlers, Tank offers fresh smoothies, juices, salads, and wraps loaded with good-for-you ingredients.
The Sushi Platter
If sushi is more your little one’s speed, the Sushi Platter serves up fresh, handmade options with a convenient pick ‘n’ mix style. Perfect for a quick meal that’s easy to grab and go.
Urban Pantry
This spot serves expertly crafted barista-made coffee, mouthwatering pastries, hearty pies, and satisfying sandwiches.
Click here for the full list of dining options at Christchurch Airport.
P.A.W.S Pet Therapy Programme
One of the newest and most heartwarming features at Christchurch Airport is the P.A.W.S Pet Therapy Programme (Pups Assisting With Stress). During peak periods, friendly therapy dogs are on hand in the terminal, ready to provide comforting cuddles and “paw-fives” to nervous travellers. Delivered by Hato Hone St John, this initiative makes Christchurch Airport the first in New Zealand to offer pet therapy for visitors. So, if you spot a furry friend roaming the terminal, take a moment to enjoy some canine love.
Click here to see when the pups will be visiting.
What can I take through security?
Parents of young children will be relieved to know they can bring extra food, drink, baby powder, and formula in reasonable amounts for their flight. Here’s what you can pack:
- Formula (both powder and liquid)
- Milk (any type)
- Fruit juice
- Sterile water (in refillable flasks)
- Baby food (store-bought or homemade)
- Wet wipes
- Vaseline or nappy cream
- Talcum powder
- Child-specific pain relievers like Pamol
- Teething gel
- Soft toys with granular filling
- Medical prescriptions, including creams, lotions, gels, tablets, and powders, prescribed by a healthcare professional
More info here.
Featured image courtesy of Unsplash,iImage #5 by nook NZ, All images credited to Christchurch Airport.
