Discover 10 fun, free rainy day activities in Christchurch for kids and families – from museums and libraries to LEGO play, swimming, and more.
Rainy days don’t have to mean bored kids, soggy walks or climbing the walls at home. Christchurch is packed with free rainy day activities that’ll keep little ones entertained, big kids engaged, and parents (mostly) sane. Whether you’re after indoor adventures, sensory fun or a cosy spot to hide from the weather, here’s your go-to guide for the best free things to do in Christchurch when it’s raining.
Read more: 50 Free Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch
Free Rainy Day Activities Christchurch for Families:
1. Explore Rutherford’s Den at the Arts Centre
Step into Rutherford’s Den and let the kids go full science geek — it’s packed with hands-on experiments, multi-sensory displays, and quirky fun facts. It’s one of the best rainy day kids activities Christchurch has on offer, where kids can push buttons, twist knobs and actually be encouraged to touch things in a museum setting. Bonus: you might even sneak in a bit of learning.
2. Visit Te Ara Ātea Library, Rolleston
Sure, it’s a short drive out, but Te Ara Ātea is worth the trip. This isn’t your average library — think peg walls, giant blocks, a native bird shape sorter, and a sensory garden just waiting for the rain to stop. Pick up a couple of books to enjoy at home or stay for one of their free sessions like sensory baby times, storytime, rhymetime or coding clubs. This is a top pick for things to do in Christchurch with kids that’s warm, dry and packed with fun.
Read more: What to do in Christchurch When It’s Raining: 90 Indoor Activities for Kids
3. Swim for Free at Christchurch Pools
We all know swimming is one of the best ways to tire out kids. Lucky for you, Christchurch Recreation and Sports Centres offer free swimming for preschoolers (with a caregiver) during school hours, Monday to Friday. So grab the togs, hit the pools, and let them burn off that rainy day energy without touching your wallet.
4. Wander Christchurch Art Gallery
Escape the rain and step into the world of colour, creativity and giant art installations at the Christchurch Art Gallery. Kids can follow free art trails, check out the interactive stations and games, or simply run circles around the giant sculptures (don’t worry, they’re used to it). One of the most creative indoor activities Christchurch has, and yes, there’s a café for fluffies when you need a break.
5. Play at Bunnings or Mitre 10
Parents, we know you’re already doing laps at Bunnings on the weekend — but don’t forget, it’s also a genius rainy day escape. The Brougham Street Mitre 10 has a shiny new indoor playground with low-level play for toddlers, plus mini trolleys and hot coffee on standby. Honestly, it’s one of the sneakiest free rainy day activities Christchurch families swear by.
6. Explore the Canterbury Museum Pop-Up at CoCA
While the main museum gets a facelift, the Canterbury Museum Pop-Up at CoCA is your go-to for curious little minds. Half the space is packed with old favourites and collection highlights, while the other half hosts rotating exhibitions. There are usually scavenger hunts and interactive activities for kids, too.
7. Get Lost in Telling Tales Children’s Bookshop
This gem of a bookshop is a cosy hideaway on a stormy day. Let the kids explore the shelves, curl up in the reading nook, or get stuck into the Duplo while you browse. You might even rediscover your own love of reading. This is one of those things to do in Christchurch with kids that feels a bit magical (and you’re supporting a local business — win-win).
8. Build at the LEGO Store, Westfield Riccarton
Rainy day + LEGO = a perfect match. The LEGO Store is packed with walls of colourful bricks, a build-your-own minifigure station, and play zones where kids can create their next masterpiece. Sure, you might end up buying something, but technically it’s one of the best free things to do in Christchurch when it’s raining if you stick to the play areas.
Read more: The Best Things to Do with Kids at Home When It’s Raining
9. Visit the Air Force Museum
This one’s a classic — climb into cockpits, check out WWII bomber gun turrets, or test your skills in the interactive Fly Zone where kids use their arms to fly virtual planes. Entry is free, and you can add on a $5 museum hunt starring Henry B. Fanshaw (a real-life squadron mascot) for extra fun. Definitely one of the top Christchurch family activities when the weather turns grim.
10. Watch Planes at the Christchurch Airport Viewing Spot
For a low-key adventure, drive to Aviation Drive and park up under the flight path to watch planes land and take off right overhead. Bring hot chocolates and a playlist, and you’ve got a cosy, no-cost way to pass an hour or two. It’s simple, free, and oddly satisfying.
Why These Free Rainy Day Activities in Christchurch Are Gold
Let’s face it: when you’re stuck inside, the day can feel about three weeks long. But with this list, you’ve got a stash of rainy day ideas Christchurch families can pull out anytime the weather refuses to play nice. From museums to swimming pools, libraries to LEGO play, these activities prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to keep the kids happy.
Looking for even more free things to do in Christchurch when it’s raining? Keep an eye on local libraries, shopping centres, and community events — there’s always something popping up to help you survive another wet afternoon.
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