Ferrymead Heritage Park’s Hall of Flame is a must-visit for kids who love fire engines and hands-on exploration.
If you’ve got a child who dreams of donning a helmet, sliding down a pole, and saving the day in a big red fire engine, then Ferrymead Heritage Park’s Hall of Flame Fire Museum is where you’ll want to head. Nestled in Christchurch’s beloved heritage park, this museum is more than just a collection of fire engines – it’s a treasure trove of history and hands-on fun.
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Hall of Flame Fire Museum:
Picture this: little ones climbing into a child-sized fire engine, grinning ear to ear as they pretend to rush off to an emergency. Add a dress-up area brimming with miniature firefighter uniforms, and you’ve got an experience that’s every bit as exciting as it is adorable. Meanwhile, parents and older kids can delve into the museum’s vast collection of firefighting memorabilia, which spans centuries. From hand-pulled pumps from the 1860s to a Dennis fire engine that served in New Zealand until 2013, it’s an awe-inspiring journey through the evolution of fire brigades.
The Hall of Flame isn’t just about big trucks and shiny helmets. It’s also a testament to the ingenuity and bravery of firefighters through the ages. Amongst the collection, you’ll find rare items like leather hoses, glass grenade extinguishers, and vintage uniforms, some of which predate the very concept of fire brigades in New Zealand.
The fire-engine fun doesn’t end inside either —there’s a playground nearby that’s shaped like a fire engine. Kids can climb, slide, and pretend they’re firefighting heroes, making it a great spot to let their imaginations run free while you grab a moment to catch your breath.
Beyond the Hall of Flame, Ferrymead Heritage Park opens up into an Edwardian wonderland. Step back in time as you wander through the restored cottages, a schoolhouse, a church, and even a blacksmith’s forge. The smell of coal fires, the rattle of trams, and the attention to historical detail make you feel like you’ve been whisked away to Christchurch over a century ago.
Trams run on weekends, offering a leisurely ride around the park, while certain Sundays bring the exhibitions to life with volunteers in period costumes. Whether it’s vintage cars, aeroplanes, or model railways, the displays reflect the passion of the societies who lovingly preserve these pieces of history. Each exhibit has its own story, and the volunteers are always keen to share their knowledge.
For an extra special experience, plan your visit around one of Ferrymead’s unique events. The Ferrymead Alive day, held on the first Sunday of each month, is a highlight, with all the charm of the park in full swing. Or visit on the first Saturday evening of the month (excluding winter) for the Ferrymead Night Market, where the park is transformed into a vibrant hub of stalls and activities.
Tickets are affordable, with under-5s admitted free and adult entry priced at $15. It’s not bad value for a day that combines history, play, and plenty of photo opportunities – because let’s face it, no one can resist snapping a picture of their little firefighter-in-training.
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While the park itself might not be the most action-packed destination for busy kiddos, the Hall of Flame Fire Museum stands out as a unique and worthwhile attraction for families, especially those with a budding firefighter in their midst. If you’re looking for a slower-paced outing and a bit of history, Ferrymead Heritage Park offers a decent day out.
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