Whether they’re toddling across the grass, exploring a sensory board, or navigating soft play, these top spots for where to take a baby in Christchurch are perfect for new walkers building confidence on their feet.
Watching your baby take those first wobbly steps is pure magic. But once they start, there’s no stopping them! Finding safe, spacious spots where early walkers can toddle, explore, and gain confidence is key. Whether you’re looking for soft flooring, wide-open spaces, or a baby-friendly stop, Christchurch has plenty of great options. Here’s where to take a baby in Christchurch when they’re on the move.
Read more: The Best Pram-Friendly Walks in Christchurch
Where to take a baby in Christchurch:
Botanic Gardens – Wide-Open Spaces and Fresh Air
Let your early walker roam free on the lush lawns of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. There’s plenty of space to practise their newfound skill, plus a small playground with equipment suited for little ones. When it’s time for a break, grab a coffee at Ilex Café and soak up the garden views while they refuel with a snack.
Chipmunks Playland – Soft Flooring and Plenty of Room
Under 1s get in free, making this a budget-friendly option for early walkers. The padded flooring means fewer bumps and tumbles, and there’s lots of space to roam. If you can, go during the week when it’s quieter—weekends and school holidays can get hectic with older kids running around.
Read more: What to do With a Newborn in Christchurch: 9 Activities to Fill Those ‘‘Early Days’
Air Force Museum – Free, Spacious, and Full of Planes
A massive indoor space with no entry fee? Yes, please! The Air Force Museum in Wigram is perfect for little legs that just want to keep moving. There’s loads of room to explore, plus interactive exhibits to keep curious hands busy. It’s a great rainy-day option when your toddler needs to burn off some energy.
Flips & Tumbles Toddler Time – A Safe Place to Climb and Crawl
During dedicated toddler sessions, little ones can explore without big kids bouncing around. There are soft mats, low climbing equipment, and plenty of space to toddle about. It’s a great way to build confidence in a safe, fun environment.
Tumble Times – Soft Play and a Big Sports Hall
Held in a large sports hall, Tumble Times is ideal for babies and toddlers who love to move. Soft play equipment, hoops, balls, and open space make it a dream for early walkers to practise their steps. Check your local rec centre for session times.
Christchurch Art Gallery – Sensory Fun and Open Spaces
The art might be for grown-ups, but the Christchurch Art Gallery is surprisingly toddler-friendly. The foyer has interactive sensory boards and wide spaces to roam. It’s a quiet, calm environment—perfect for little explorers who like to take things slow.
Westfield Riccarton Play Area – Low Play Equipment for Little Legs
If you’re running errands, the play area at Westfield Riccarton is a great pit stop for tiny walkers. The equipment is low to the ground, making it easy for early walkers to climb and explore. Go early before the mall gets busy and let them toddle to their heart’s content.
Read more: Christchurch Shopping Malls with Indoor Playgrounds for Kids
Playtimes at Selwyn Sports Centre – Weekend Toddler Play
Every Saturday and Sunday from 9-11am (between September – May), Selwyn Sports Centre hosts a dedicated session for under-5s. For just $3, little ones can enjoy soft play equipment, padded mats, and a big open sports hall to run (or wobble) around in.
Launch Pad – Soft Play, Ball Pits, and Fun
If your early walker loves to climb, roll, and explore, Launch Pad’s new tots area is a great choice. There’s soft flooring, ball pits, and toddler-friendly play equipment to keep them busy.
West Melton Mini Gym – Music and Play
This class is all about fun, movement, and learning, with a special focus on those early walking milestones! Designed for babies and toddlers, it combines music, play, and structured activities to help your little one develop motor skills, confidence, and cognitive abilities—perfect for encouraging those first steps. With songs, free play, and plenty of wiggle time, it’s a great way for your child to practice walking while having fun. While aimed at 1–5-year-olds, this particular session is ideal for babies aged 3 months to 2 years too! Held on Thursdays from 10:00 am to 10:45 am ($5.20) at West Melton Community Centre. Other sessions can be found here.
South City Mall Play Area – A Quiet Spot to Play
This shopping centre has a hidden gem for little ones—a quieter play area with books, toys, and a mini playhouse. Skip the bigger kids’ playground and head to the dedicated kids’ corner for a calmer play experience.
Oakwood Park – A Safe and Spacious Spot for Little Explorers
Tucked away in Rangiora, Oakwood Park is a great place to take a baby who’s just finding their feet. The fully fenced playground means early walkers can roam safely, while the soft sand base provides a gentle landing for any tumbles. There’s also a dedicated sandpit, perfect for little hands to dig and play. With plenty of space to toddle around and seating for parents, it’s an ideal spot for a morning out and about.
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