100 Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch and Canterbury

From free playgrounds and rainy day rescues to nature walks and easy day trips, here are 100 family activities across Christchurch and Canterbury. Your go-to guide for keeping kids entertained, whether you have got a toddler or a tween.

Christchurch is one of the best cities in New Zealand for families. With world-class playgrounds, wildlife parks, beaches, forests and family friendly attractions around every corner, there is always somewhere new to explore with kids.

Whether you are looking for free activities, rainy day ideas, nature walks, toddler friendly outings or easy day trips from Christchurch, this guide covers 100 things to do with kids in Christchurch and Canterbury. You might also like our guide to kids activities in Christchurch for even more ideas sorted by season and age.

Bookmark this page. It is the kind of guide you will come back to again and again when the kids say they are bored.

100 things to do in Christchurch with kids:

Jump to a section:

• Free things to do with kids in Christchurch
• Best playgrounds in Christchurch
• Indoor activities for kids in Christchurch
• Nature walks and outdoor adventures
• Things to do with toddlers in Christchurch
• Paid attractions and family experiences
• Day trips from Christchurch with kids
• Seasonal and weekend ideas
• Tips for families
• FAQs

Free Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch

Christchurch is packed with places where kids can run, climb, explore and learn without spending a dollar. From huge parks and wetlands to beaches and forests, here are the best free family activities in the city.

1. Sumner Beach

Sumner Beach is a classic Christchurch family outing. Walk along the beach, search the rock pools at low tide, or grab an ice cream from the village after a play at the nearby playground. On calm days it is also a popular spot for paddling and building sandcastles. During the warmer months there are even more free things to do with kids in Christchurch.

2. Christchurch Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens are perfect for a relaxed family day out. Wide pram friendly paths wind through gardens, giant trees and open lawns. Kids love riding scooters and bikes along the river paths, and there are plenty of spots for a picnic. The gardens also include a playground, a pond area and the stunning conservatories which are free to enter.

3. Hagley Park

Hagley Park sits right in the centre of Christchurch and is ideal for scooters, bike rides, kite flying or picnics. At 165 hectares it is the largest urban open space in the city, so there is always room to spread out. In spring, the cherry blossoms and daffodil lawns are worth a special visit.

4. Turanga Library

Turanga is far more than a library. The children’s floors include interactive play areas, a giant LEGO and Duplo Imagination Station, reading nooks and regular storytime sessions that keep younger kids entertained. It is one of the best free rainy day activities in Christchurch.

5. Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu

The Christchurch Art Gallery offers free entry and regularly hosts exhibitions that spark curiosity in kids. The wide open spaces make it easy to explore with a pram. Children often enjoy searching for colourful artworks and interesting sculptures throughout the building, and the gallery runs family focused events and workshops during school holidays.

6. Bottle Lake Forest Park

Bottle Lake Forest is a favourite for families who enjoy nature adventures. Wide gravel tracks are perfect for bike rides and scooters, while shaded forest trails invite kids to explore and build huts. The forest is also home to one of the best fairy door walks in Christchurch, with hundreds of tiny fairy houses hidden among the trees.

7. Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park

Travis Wetland is one of the largest freshwater wetlands in Christchurch. A raised boardwalk loops through the reserve, giving families the chance to spot birds, fish and native plants on an easy walk suitable for kids of all ages.

8. Riccarton Bush Putaringamotu

Riccarton Bush is one of the last remnants of native kahikatea forest on the Canterbury Plains. The short walking track winds beneath tall trees and feels like stepping into another world. Combine it with a visit to Riccarton House or time your trip for the Saturday morning Riccarton Farmers Market.

9. Spencer Park

Spencer Park combines playgrounds, wetlands and forest trails in one location. Families can spend hours here exploring the walking tracks, playing in the playground or heading down to the nearby beach. It is a great option when you want a bit of everything in one stop.

10. New Brighton Beach and Pier

Walk along the iconic pier, explore the beach, then let the kids loose at the nearby playground. The New Brighton playground features climbing structures, water play and plenty of space to run. The library right beside the beach is another good wet weather backup. For a full day plan, see our guide to things to do with kids in New Brighton.

11. The Groynes

The Groynes is one of Christchurch’s best parks for a full family day out. Duck ponds, pedal boats, walking tracks, playgrounds and picnic areas make it easy to spend an entire afternoon here. Dogs are welcome too.

12. Victoria Park

Located in the Port Hills, Victoria Park offers wide open spaces, walking tracks and some of the best views over Christchurch. Kids enjoy the playground, spotting dogs and running across the large grassy areas. It is a great starting point for easy family walks in the hills.

13. Christchurch Street Art Trail

Christchurch has some of the best street art in New Zealand, much of it appearing on walls revealed after the 2011 earthquakes. Walk around the central city with the kids and spot murals including the giant penguin Antarctic scene in Cathedral Square and the Ballerina. You can follow a Christchurch street art map to find them all.

14. New Regent Street

One of the most photographed streets in Christchurch, New Regent Street is a colourful pedestrian strip lined with cafes, gelato shops and boutiques. The heritage tram runs right through the middle and kids love watching it pass. Stop at Rollickin Gelato for a treat.

15. Avon River Precinct

Stroll along the Avon River through the central city and enjoy the restored riverbanks, footbridges and green spaces. The flat paths are perfect for prams and scooters, and there are plenty of spots to sit and watch the punters glide past. For more routes like this, see our guide to pram-friendly walks in Christchurch.

Best Playgrounds in Christchurch

Christchurch has some of the best playgrounds in New Zealand. Across the city and surrounding towns you will find everything from huge destination playgrounds to nature play spaces and neighbourhood gems.

16. Margaret Mahy Family Playground

Margaret Mahy is the most famous playground in Christchurch and one of the largest in New Zealand. Located beside the Avon River in the central city, it features giant slides, flying foxes, climbing towers, in-ground trampolines and water play areas. It was designed with input from over 6,000 local children and is built for all ages and abilities. Bring a change of clothes in warmer weather as the water features are hard to resist.

17. New Brighton Seaside Playground

Right beside New Brighton Pier, this destination playground combines seaside views with imaginative play. Kids can climb the giant waka, explore musical play equipment and cool off in the splash pad during summer.

18. Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre

New Zealand’s largest indoor aquatic and recreation centre, right in central Christchurch. Kids can burn energy on five hydroslides, splash around in the water adventure playground and splash deck, or swim in the leisure pools. There is a sensory aquatic space for younger or sensory-sensitive children, plus a cafe and two hours of free parking. Slide riders need to be aged five and over. For more on what to expect, see our Parakiore guide.

19. Victoria Park Playground

Sitting high in the Port Hills with incredible views, Victoria Park Playground includes slides and climbing equipment. It is easy to combine a visit with a short family walk along one of the surrounding tracks.

20. Parsonage Road Reserve Playground, Woodend

A fantastic toddler friendly playground just north of Christchurch. The castle themed climbing structure, twisty slide, pretend shop, swings and sound bridge keep younger kids busy, while a surrounding scooter track with road signs lets them practise riding in a safe setting. It is one of several great spots in our guide to learn-to-ride scooter and bike parks in Christchurch.

21. Redwood Springs Playground

Hidden within Styx River Esplanade Reserve, Redwood Springs blends play with nature. Kids can climb, ride the flying fox and explore the nearby walking tracks and bubbling spring along the river.

22. Rosemerryn Playground, Lincoln

Rosemerryn has separate areas for toddlers and older kids. A flying fox, climbing structures and a nearby pump track make it a great stop for active families exploring the Selwyn district.

23. Hansen Park Playground, Opawa

Hansen Park combines playground fun with nature play. Kids can climb logs, use the playground equipment and enjoy the wide open green spaces along the river.

24. Avon Park Playground

Redeveloped into a nature inspired playground, Avon Park swaps traditional equipment for tree stumps, wooden beams and natural play elements that encourage creative outdoor play.

25. Wilfield Playground, West Melton

Castle themed towers and climbing platforms spark imaginative play at Wilfield. Large grass areas nearby give kids plenty of room to run.

26. Pegasus Lakeside Playground

Worth the short drive from Christchurch, Pegasus Lakeside Playground features large slides and climbing structures overlooking the lake. It feels like a mini weekend adventure and pairs well with a walk or cycle around the lake.

27. Cashmere Valley Reserve Playground

A colourful fenced playground popular with younger children. A maze and large slide keep kids entertained, and the nearby river walk is perfect for extending the outing into a nature adventure.

28. Barrington Park Playground

Barrington Park has an accessible playground with ramps, sensory equipment and inclusive play structures. The gentle layout is especially good for toddlers and children who benefit from accessible design.

Explore our full guide to the best playgrounds in Christchurch for even more spots worth visiting. If your kids prefer mud and sticks over plastic slides, our nature playgrounds guide covers the best options. And if you are parenting a runner, our fenced playgrounds in Christchurch guide is worth bookmarking.

Indoor Activities for Kids in Christchurch

Christchurch weather can change fast, and sometimes you need somewhere indoors where kids can burn energy or try something new. Here are the best indoor activities for kids in Christchurch for rainy days and cold afternoons. For even more ideas, see our full guide to what to do in Christchurch when it’s raining.

29. International Antarctic Centre

One of the top family attractions in Christchurch. Kids can experience a simulated Antarctic storm, ride an all-terrain Hagglund vehicle, meet little blue penguins and explore hands-on exhibits about life on the ice. It is an all-weather attraction that keeps kids of all ages engaged for hours.

30. Air Force Museum of New Zealand

The Air Force Museum in Wigram is one of the best free indoor activities in Christchurch. Kids can explore historic aircraft, interactive exhibits and hands-on displays. The indoor space is huge, making it a great option for cold or rainy days.

31. Taiora QEII Recreation and Sport Centre

Taiora QEII in New Brighton has a 130 metre hydroslide, leisure pool, lazy river, splash deck with a water adventure playground and an indoor fitness centre. It is a solid rainy day or winter option and less busy than Parakiore on weekends.

32. Christchurch Art Gallery

Free entry and regularly changing exhibitions make the gallery worth revisiting. Wide open spaces are easy to navigate with a pram and the gallery regularly runs school holiday programmes for kids.

33. Clip ‘n Climb

One of the most exciting indoor activities for older kids. Brightly coloured climbing walls come in a range of shapes and challenges, with a preschool session available for younger climbers. Located at the Adventure Centre.

34. Mega Air Trampoline Park

Mega Air is a popular indoor trampoline park where kids can bounce, flip and burn energy. Foam pits, dodgeball courts and wall trampolines make it a fun option for active kids.

35. Chipmunks Playland

Large climbing frames, slides and ball pits keep kids entertained at Chipmunks, with multiple locations across Christchurch. Dedicated toddler areas make it suitable for younger children too.

36. Messy Mates Indoor Play Studio

Messy Mates is an indoor sensory play studio designed for younger children. Kids explore themed messy play setups filled with textures, colours and hands-on activities like pouring, scooping and squishing. Sessions encourage creativity and sensory exploration in a safe indoor environment.

37. Alpine Ice

For something different, Alpine Ice offers indoor ice skating sessions for families. Kids can try skating for the first time or practise their skills while enjoying a fun winter-style activity year round.

38. Uprising Bouldering

Uprising has a full-sized bouldering gym and a kids’ climbing area called Blocland, suitable for children aged five and under. Older kids can enjoy the main gym too. Great for building confidence and fitness on a wet day.

39. Zone Bowling

Bowling is a classic rainy day activity that works well for families. Bumpers on the lanes let younger children join in the fun too. For more places to go bowling, our guide to bowling alleys in Christchurch has you covered.

40. Riverside Market

Riverside Market is a surprisingly fun stop with kids. Wander through food stalls, try different treats and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Bathrooms and baby changing are available on site, as well as a small play area upstairs. It pairs well with a visit to Margaret Mahy Playground just a short walk away. For more places where you can eat while the kids play, see our guide to cafes with play areas in Christchurch.

41. Quake City

An interactive museum dedicated to the Canterbury earthquakes. Older kids and teenagers will find the hands-on exhibits and personal stories engaging. Younger children are provided with activities to keep them busy while parents explore.

42. The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora

The Arts Centre is worth a wander with kids any day of the week. Browse the Tiny Toy Shop, check out the Art Vending Machine ($6 for a pocket-sized original artwork), explore Rutherford’s Den and let the kids loose in the courtyard. On weekends the Seekers Makete brings food stalls, live music and free entertainment. The sensory boards in the foyer are a hit with toddlers too. Read our family guide to The Arts Centre for more ideas nearby.

Nature Walks and Outdoor Adventures Near Christchurch

One of the best things about raising kids in Christchurch is how easy it is to get outdoors. Forest trails, wetlands, coastal walks and hilltop views are all within easy reach. On hot days, our guide to shaded walks in Christchurch is especially handy.

43. Port Hills Walking Tracks

The Port Hills are packed with family friendly walking tracks offering incredible views across Christchurch. Short walks from Victoria Park and the Sign of the Kiwi are especially popular. Many tracks are easy enough for kids while still feeling like a real adventure.

44. Godley Head Coastal Walk

For families with older kids, the Godley Head walk offers one of the most spectacular coastal adventures near Christchurch. The track winds along dramatic cliffs with views of the Pacific Ocean and includes interesting WWII gun emplacements and bunkers along the way. Start from Taylors Mistake for the full experience.

45. Styx Mill Conservation Reserve

A peaceful nature area filled with wetlands, walking tracks and native plants. Families can wander along easy paths while spotting birds and wildlife. The reserve also includes a playground and picnic areas, making it perfect for a half-day outing.

46. Halswell Quarry Park

One of the most scenic parks in Christchurch. Walking tracks wind through gardens, wetlands and historic quarry areas. Wide open spaces are perfect for picnics, and there are multiple loop tracks to suit different ages and energy levels.

47. Prebbleton Nature Park

A gentle walk for younger kids. The loop track winds around ponds and wetlands, with plenty of ducks and birds to spot along the way. Prebbleton has more to offer than you might think. See our full Prebbleton with kids guide.

48. Lake Pegasus Walkway

The flat walking and cycling track around Lake Pegasus is perfect for families with bikes or scooters. The path loops around the lake and passes beaches, playgrounds and open grass areas.

49. Cave Rock, Sumner

Cave Rock is a classic Christchurch adventure. Kids love climbing the rock formation and exploring the surrounding beach, especially at low tide when rock pools appear. Combine it with fish and chips or an ice cream from Sumner village.

50. Governors Bay Foreshore Walk

A gentle 3.2km coastal track starting beside the Governors Bay jetty. The wide gravelled path follows the harbour foreshore with views across Lyttelton Harbour, and is flat enough for prams. A good option for families who enjoy quieter, scenic walks away from the city.

51. Cashmere Stream Reserve

Hidden at the base of the Port Hills, Cashmere Stream Reserve offers a peaceful escape with shady paths and a small stream that kids love to explore.

52. Styx River Walk

The Styx River area includes several walking tracks following the river through native bush. A quiet spot for nature exploration, bird watching and connecting with the Redwood Springs playground nearby.

53. Rapaki Track

A short but rewarding uphill walk in the Port Hills that older kids and active families enjoy. The views from the top are stunning and it feels like a real achievement for children.

54. Taylors Mistake Beach

A beautiful beach just beyond Sumner with rock pools, sheltered swimming and the start of the Godley Head walkway. Less busy than Sumner, it is a favourite for families who know about it.

55. Lyttelton Harbour Walks

Several easy walks around Lyttelton offer harbour views and a sense of adventure. Drive or take the bus through the tunnel, then explore the town, waterfront and walking tracks before grabbing lunch at one of the cafes.

Things to Do With Toddlers in Christchurch

Keeping toddlers entertained takes a special kind of outing. These spots are designed for little legs, short attention spans and big curiosity. For a deeper list, see our full guide to things to do with toddlers in Christchurch.

56. Free Preschool Swimming

During school term time, up to two preschoolers and one caregiver can swim for free at Christchurch Recreation and Sport Centre pools between 9am and 3pm, Monday to Friday. Graham Condon has a toddler pool with sprinkler fountains, Jellie Park and Pioneer both have warm shallow pools, and Taiora QEII and Parakiore have splash decks and leisure pools. One of the easiest free outings with toddlers in Christchurch.

57. Bishopdale Park Playground (Elephant Park)

Known locally as Elephant Park, Bishopdale Park features large elephant sculptures and simple play equipment that younger kids love. The surrounding park provides plenty of space for wandering.

58. Richmond Community Garden

Natural play elements and a mud kitchen make Richmond Community Garden a favourite with toddlers. It is a relaxed space where kids can dig, explore and interact with nature.

59. Scarborough Park Splash Pad

During summer, the splash pad at Scarborough Park becomes a favourite with families. Toddlers run through water jets and play in the shallow water areas beside the beach.

60. Art Safari at Christchurch Art Gallery

A free drop-in session for pre-schoolers aged two to four. Kids can paint, glue, print, stamp and colour without making a mess at home. Sessions run monthly and prams, babies and siblings are all welcome. A low-key, creative outing that toddlers love. For more options, see our guide to indoor play centres in Christchurch for toddlers.

61. Storytime at Christchurch Libraries

Free storytime sessions at the Christchurch libraries are a great way to socialise toddlers while enjoying books, songs and rhymes in a welcoming space. Most branches across Christchurch run regular sessions for under-fives. See our full list of free library activities for preschoolers.

62. Halswell Domain Playground and Mini Trains

Halswell Domain has a playground, skate park and the Canterbury Society of Model Engineers miniature railway, which runs on Sunday afternoons. Toddlers love the train rides and the playground is a good size without being overwhelming. See our full guide to train-themed playgrounds in Christchurch for more.

63. Scarborough Park Playground

Right beside the beach and splash pad, this playground is a good option for toddlers who want a mix of sand, water and climbing.

64. Christchurch Botanic Gardens Play Area

The playground within the Botanic Gardens is well suited to toddlers, with equipment designed for younger age groups. Combine it with a walk through the gardens, feeding the ducks or riding scooters along the flat paths.

65. South Brighton Beach

A quieter alternative to New Brighton, South Brighton has calm water at the estuary end that is ideal for toddlers to paddle and explore safely.

Paid Attractions and Family Experiences in Christchurch

These are the big ticket experiences that make Christchurch special. Many offer family passes or discounted rates for children.

66. Orana Wildlife Park

New Zealand’s only open range zoo. Orana lets families get up close with animals including giraffes, lions, meerkats and native species. The open design gives it an almost safari feel, and kids of all ages love the hands-on feeding experiences.

67. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Smaller and more intimate than a traditional zoo, Willowbank is the best place in Christchurch to see a kiwi. The reserve is also home to tuatara, kea, kunekune pigs and a range of farmyard animals that children can interact with.

68. Christchurch Gondola

The gondola ride to the top of Mount Cavendish offers stunning panoramic views over Christchurch, Lyttelton Harbour and the Canterbury Plains. At the summit there is a cafe, a free Time Tunnel experience explaining the history of the region, and short walking tracks.

69. Christchurch Tram

The heritage tram loops through the central city with 17 stops along the way. Kids love the old-school wooden seats and the ding of the bell. An all-day hop-on, hop-off ticket makes it a handy way to get between attractions without tiring out little legs.

70. Punting on the Avon

Glide along the Avon River on a traditional flat-bottomed punt while a guide shares stories about the city. It is a gentle, relaxing activity that even young children enjoy.

71. Christchurch Adventure Park

The Adventure Park in the Port Hills offers ziplines, mountain biking trails and a chairlift. The zipline tour is one of the longest in New Zealand. There is also a kids’ bike skills area for younger riders.

72. Adrenalin Forest

A high ropes course with challenges ranging from one metre to 20 metres above the ground. Children must be at least 130cm tall to participate. A great option for older kids and teenagers who love physical challenges.

73. TranzAlpine Train (Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass or Greymouth)

One of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The TranzAlpine crosses the Canterbury Plains and climbs into the Southern Alps, passing gorges, rivers and mountain scenery. Kids love the open-air viewing carriage. You can do a return day trip to Arthur’s Pass village.

74. Orton Bradley Park, Charteris Bay

A privately owned family gem tucked into Lyttelton Harbour. The adventure playground centres around a pirate ship with flying foxes, swings, tunnels and a low ropes course. There is a BMX pump track, creek play, walking tracks through the bush and a cafe serving pastries and coffee. Entry is $5 for adults, $1 for kids or a maximum of $10 per car.

75. Black Cat Cruises Harbour Tour, Lyttelton

A harbour cruise from Lyttelton is a fun way to see the harbour, spot wildlife and learn about the area’s history. Seal and penguin spotting is possible depending on the season.

76. Blokarting, Canterbury

Blokarting is like sailing on wheels across flat open ground. With strong Canterbury winds, these mini land yachts move fast and most people pick it up within minutes. A unique Canterbury experience that kids love.

Day Trips From Christchurch With Kids

Canterbury’s best family adventures are often just a short drive from the city. These day trips are all achievable within a day and give kids a real sense of adventure. For even more options, see our full guide to day trips from Christchurch with kids.

77. Akaroa

About 90 minutes from Christchurch, the French-influenced harbour town of Akaroa is one of the best day trips in Canterbury. Swim with Hectors dolphins (ages 8+), take a harbour nature cruise, visit Shamarra Alpaca Farm for a hands-on tour, explore the village, eat handmade fudge and enjoy fish and chips by the water.

78. Quail Island, Lyttelton Harbour

Catch a ferry from Lyttelton to Quail Island and explore walking tracks, an abandoned shipwreck, a historic cemetery and sheltered swimming beaches. Pack a picnic as there are no food outlets on the island. A genuine adventure for kids.

79. Hanmer Springs

About 90 minutes north of Christchurch, Hanmer Springs is famous for its hot pools. The thermal complex has pools for all ages including a dedicated kids’ area with slides and splash zones. The town also has forest walks, a tree-top adventure course and mountain biking trails.

80. Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti

Giant limestone boulders scattered across an alpine landscape make Castle Hill one of the most dramatic natural playgrounds in Canterbury. Kids love climbing and hiding among the rocks. It is about 90 minutes from Christchurch on the road to Arthur’s Pass.

81. Arthur’s Pass Village

Drive or take the TranzAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass for mountain walks, waterfalls and the chance to spot cheeky kea. The Devils Punchbowl waterfall walk is a popular family track. Stop at the cafe for a pie before heading home.

82. Ashley Gorge

A beautiful swimming and picnic spot about an hour north of Christchurch. Short bush walks wind along the river and there are sheltered swimming holes perfect for summer afternoons.

83. Waimakariri Gorge

A scenic spot for a family picnic with views of the braided river. The historic Waimakariri Gorge bridge is easy to access and has been a popular day trip destination from Christchurch since the 1880s.

84. Diamond Harbour

Catch the ferry from Lyttelton to Diamond Harbour for a change of scenery. There are two new playgrounds, a small beach and walking tracks. The ferry ride itself is half the fun for kids.

85. McLeans Island

McLeans Island is home to several family attractions including mini golf, a model railway, bike trails and Orana Wildlife Park. You can easily spend a full day exploring the area.

86. Mt Hutt, Methven and Opuke Hot Pools

In winter, Mt Hutt ski field is the closest major ski area to Christchurch (about 90 minutes drive). The small town of Methven at the base is a good family base with cafes, accommodation and gear hire. Year round, Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa offers hot pools with mountain views, and right next door there is an enchanted fairy door walk tucked through the trees with fairy houses, signs and the occasional dragon hiding along the way.

87. Little River and Banks Peninsula

Drive the scenic route to Little River, stopping at the cafe and rail trail. Continue over the hill to explore the bays, beaches and small settlements around Banks Peninsula. Okains Bay has a swimming beach and a museum.

88. Kaiapoi River and Town

Just 20 minutes north of Christchurch, Kaiapoi is an easy day trip that punches above its weight. Kids can kayak or paddleboard on the river with KORE, take a cruise on the River Queen, explore the playground or visit the Kaiapoi Food Forest. Grab lunch at The Platform Brew Bar overlooking the water and let the kids run along the riverbank.

Seasonal and Weekend Ideas

89. Riccarton Sunday Market

The Riccarton Sunday Market at Riccarton Racecourse is one of the biggest markets in Christchurch. Kids enjoy browsing the stalls, grabbing a sausage sizzle and burning energy on the open grounds while parents hunt for bargains. It runs every Sunday morning year round.

90. Botanic Gardens Peace Train

Every Sunday from September to April, a free miniature electric train loops through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. It was gifted to the city by Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) after the mosque attacks and is now run by volunteers. The eight minute ride leaves from behind the kiosk near the playground. Get there early on sunny Sundays or expect a queue.

91. Sumner to Taylors Mistake Coastal Walk

An easy coastal walk connecting two of Christchurch’s best beaches. It is short enough for families and the views are spectacular.

92. Ferrymead Heritage Park

Step back in time at Ferrymead Heritage Park, where kids can ride vintage trams and trains, explore old-school shops and wander through recreated historic streets. It is a popular spot for school holiday events and themed days throughout the year. Check our school holiday guide for what is coming up.

93. Lincoln Wetlands Walk

A short family loop through the Lincoln Wetlands with stepping stones through the reeds, a small lake and a grassy picnic area. The whole walk takes 30 to 40 minutes and is flat enough for prams and new walkers. It is one of several great options in our Selwyn family walks guide.

94. Cherry Blossoms in Hagley Park (Spring)

In September and October, Hagley Park North erupts in pink cherry blossoms. It is one of the most photographed spots in Christchurch and a beautiful free outing for families.

95. Sign of the Takahe

Perched in the Cashmere hills, this neo-Gothic building looks like a castle straight out of a fairytale. Kids lose their minds over the suit of armour inside, and the views across Christchurch from the grounds are stunning. The cafe serves decent coffee, scones and toasties. It was built in the 1920s as a rest house for trampers and took decades to complete, with turrets, stained glass and stonework throughout.

96. Alice in Putterland

An indoor blacklight mini golf course with colourful themed holes that kids love. It works year round, suits all ages and is a fun option when you want something different from the usual playground or play centre. A bit of friendly family competition never hurts. Check out our guide to the best mini golfing in Christchurch while you’re at it.

97. Picnic at Mona Vale

The gardens at Mona Vale are one of the most scenic picnic spots in Christchurch. Wide lawns beside the river are perfect for families, and kids enjoy the ducks, bridges and garden paths.

98. Night Sky Stargazing (Canterbury Plains)

On a clear night, head out to the Canterbury Plains where light pollution drops away and the stars are incredible. Bring blankets and hot chocolate for a simple but memorable family evening.

99. Birdlings Flat Rock Hunting

The wild shoreline at Birdlings Flat on Banks Peninsula is famous for colourful stones, agates and interesting driftwood. Kids can spend ages treasure hunting along the beach. It is not a swimming spot but the rugged coastline and open skies make it feel like a proper adventure. There is a small playground and a quirky gemstone museum nearby.

100. Explore a New Playground Every Weekend

With hundreds of playgrounds across Canterbury, you could visit a different one every weekend and never run out. Our best playgrounds in Christchurch guide make it easy to track your adventures and discover new favourites.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Christchurch With Kids

Best time to visit: Christchurch is a year-round family destination. Summer (December to February) is ideal for beaches and outdoor activities, while winter brings skiing and cosy indoor options. Spring and autumn are often the best seasons for walks and playgrounds with fewer crowds.

Getting around: A car is the easiest way to explore Christchurch and Canterbury with kids. Most attractions have free parking. The central city is also walkable and the heritage tram connects key family spots.

What to pack: Canterbury weather changes quickly. Layers, sunscreen and a rain jacket are essential no matter the season. Bring a change of clothes if you are heading to any water play areas or splash pads.

Budget tip: Many of the best things to do in Christchurch with kids are completely free. Playgrounds, beaches, walks, libraries and galleries all cost nothing and can fill entire days.

More Family Guides From nook NZ

• Things to Do in Christchurch With Kids (our main local parent guide)
• Christchurch With Kids: Top Family Activities and Tips (for visitors)
• 50 Free Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch
• What to Do in Christchurch When It’s Raining: 90 Indoor Activities
• Best Playgrounds in Christchurch
• Day Trips From Christchurch With Kids
• Cafes With Play Areas in Christchurch
• School Holiday Activities in Christchurch

Last updated: April 2026. Know a spot we have missed? Get in touch and we will add it to the list.