Looking for an activity for your under-five? Add these preschooler sessions in Christchurch to your weekly rotation.
Got a preschooler in tow and looking for some fun-filled sessions to liven up the week? We’ve gathered 8 of the best kid-friendly activities in Christchurch that you’ll want to put on your radar. From bouncing around at trampoline parks to splashing through swimming lessons, and softplay sessions designed for tots, there’s something for every energy level.
Read more: Drop-in Classes for Active Preschoolers in Christchurch
Preschooler sessions in Christchurch:
MoveX Trampoline and Ninja Park
MoveX Trampoline and Ninja Park’s extended, $10 preschooler-discounted sessions are perfect for tots who love running, jumping and climbing. Giving you access to everything, from the toddler-friendly trampolines to the exciting Ninja course and challenges, these 3 and half hours on weekdays are an unbeatable way to burn off all that extra pre-nap energy. For those who need more support, there is also a special under-5 zone with smaller trampolines, a foam pit, and plenty of toys to tinker with. Plus, on the first Tuesday of every month (excluding public and school holidays), join Mel for a special toddler session with singing and dancing—perfect for adding a bit of extra fun to the morning. While the sessions are designed and discounted for preschoolers, the sessions are open to all, so expect a few older kids on teacher-only days.
When: Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 1pm. No preschooler-discounted sessions run during public and school holidays.
Where: 230 Maces Road, Bromley, Christchurch
How much: $10 for your preschooler and parent or caregiver. Under 1’s play for free.
Mention that you have seen this post on nook NZ to the staff at MoveX Cafe and receive a free kids fluffy! Valid one per child per visit. Only available during cafe opening hours.
Bubbletimes
Running throughout the week at Recreation and Sports Centres across Christchurch, Bubbletimes is suited for those six months to five years and is designed to help build confidence in the water. These casual, drop-in classes feature ‘splash and play activities’ under the guidance of a certified trainer, however, does require an adult to accompany the children in the water. Be sure to check the timetable to see when sessions are running. If these session times don’t suit, preschoolers and their caregivers can swim for free at all pools from 9am to 3pm on school days during term time.
When: Throughout the week
Where: Various Recreation and Sports Centres in Christchurch. Timetable here.
How much: $4.90; $3.80 per additional child
www.recandsport.ccc.govt.nz/bubbletimes
Tumble Times
Perfect for active toddlers, these preschooler sessions in Christchurch have been a long-standing fave for parents looking for things to do during the week. There is plenty of space to run around, and equipment to climb up and jump off from, including structured games and music time.
When: Check the timetable online as available sessions change weekly.
Where: Pioneer, Linwood Pool, Cowles Stadium
How much: $4.90 and $3.80 per additional child
Age: Under five (however due to the size of the room at the Linwood location, this session best suits children under three).
www.recandsport.ccc.govt.nz/tumbletimes
Rug Rats x Welder Events: Play Pals *CURRENTLY NOT RUNNING*
Rug Rats, in partnership with Welder Events, is hosting regular soft play sessions for preschoolers at their beautiful event space. Designed for all abilities, these sessions let kids crawl, climb, and jump for an hour of active fun while parents relax and catch up while enjoying hot coffee from Grizzly Bakery or Barefoot Eatery. Quiet-time sessions are also available for children with sensory needs.
When: Monday and Tuesdays. 9.15-10.15am (0-18 months only); 10.15-11.15am (0-5); 11.15-12.15pm (0-5)
Where: The Welder Events Space, 22 Welles Street, Christchurch
How much: $16 per child, non-mobile babies are free with a paying sibling. Book here.
Read more: The Best Soft Play Hire Companies in Christchurch
Flips & Tumbles
Let your little one play and explore at Flips & Tumbles’ Toddler Tumble sessions. These sessions are all about letting kids under 5 move around and have fun in a safe space. With parents keeping an eye on things, preschoolers have access to the whole arena as well as the upstairs Jungle Room. These sessions are a great way for toddlers to build their motor skills while enjoying themselves.
When: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 9.30-11.30am; Saturday, Sunday from 9-10am. Tuesdays, 12.30-2.30pm; Fridays, 9.30-1.30pm
Where: 12 Musgrove Close, Wigram
How much: $7 per under five and $7 per adult entering the gym. There is a free-of-charge viewing platform upstairs. Check out the subscription options that allow unlimited entry all week long.
www.flipsandtumblesnz.com/underfive
Mega Air
Another great spot for toddlers and preschoolers aged 5 and under, your toddler gets in for free (with a paying adult), and each additional toddler is just $5. Little ones can explore most of the park with their parents or caregivers, and there’s even a special area set aside for those who want to keep their toddlers close by. If you’re after a preschol-only session, Mega Air offers dedicated Toddler-Only hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10am to 12pm, and on Saturdays from 10am to 11am.
When: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 10-12pm; Saturday 10-11am
Where: 106A Carmen Road, Hei Hei
How much: $12. Your toddler is free with a paying adult, additional toddlers are $5
Launch Pad
The park is all theirs! This exclusive time is set aside just for toddlers under 5 and their parents or caregivers. It’s the perfect chance for little ones to explore, play, and have fun in a safe, relaxed environment. Expect plenty of bubbles, balls, and all the usual activities, but without the hustle and bustle of the bigger kids. It’s a great way for toddlers to burn off energy and for parents to enjoy some quality time together.
When: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10-12pm; Saturday & Sunday from 9-10am
Where: 43 Langdons Road, Papanui
How much: $12 (admits one child and one parent)
www.launchpadfun.co.nz/toddler-time
Playtime
Kickstart your Saturday with Playtime at Selwyn Sports Centre. This weekly weekend soft play circuit is perfect for little ones to explore climbing, balancing, jumping, and rolling. With parents guiding the fun, it’s an active way to burn off that morning energy and get the weekend rolling. No need to plan ahead—just drop in for only $3 per child.
When: Saturdays, 9-11am
Where: Selwyn Sports Centre, Rolleston
How much: $3 per child. No bookings are required.
This article contains editorial selections and paid partnerships.
Featured image credited to Rug Rats, image #1 credited to MoveX Trampoline and Ninja Park
