From ice cream to alpacas and everything in between, we have your summer sorted. Here’s what to do with kids in summer in Christchurch.
Ah, summer. That magical time when the days are long, the kids are feral, and you’re constantly on the hunt for what to do with kids in summer Christchurch style—something that won’t break the bank or your sanity. Whether you’re into paddling pools, peonies, or peace trains, we’ve rounded up the best of the season to keep everyone entertained. Dive in, parents—it’s going to be a good one.
Read more: 50 Free Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch
What to do with kids in summer Christchurch:
All Aboard the Peace Train: The Peace Train rolls through the Botanic Gardens every Sunday from September to April from 10 am to 1 pm, and it’s the perfect excuse to slow the pace and let someone else do the driving for once. The kids will love it, and you’ll finally get those 15 minutes of zen you’ve been dreaming about since last summer.
Pick a Peck of Peonies: If frolicking through flower fields sounds like a Pinterest fever dream, Prebbleton Peonies is here to make it real. Grab a bucket (and the kids) and fill it to the brim with gorgeous blooms for $50. It’s wholesome, it’s photogenic, and it’s a decent workout for your “helpers.”
Splash at Summer Pools: Water + kids = hours of guaranteed fun. Whether it’s a splash zone, a paddling pool, or a full-on swimming extravaganza, Christchurch’s summer pools are a surefire hit.
Read more: Make a Splash: Canterbury’s Best Pools for Kids
Berry Picking: Nothing says summer quite like chasing your kids through a blueberry patch while they sneak handfuls straight from the vine. Mid-December marks the start of berry season, so whether it’s strawberries, blueberries, or gooseberries, this is your chance to stock up. Just don’t count on them making it home.
Beach Days with Extras: Sand, sun, and snacks—beach days are the trifecta of family fun. Sumner is the go-to for classic vibes and fish and chips, but for something a little less crowded (albeit more windy), head to New Brighton. Stop by North Beach Coffee Shed for a flat white (and a box of beach toys) and let the kids loose while you sip in peace.
Fish & Chips at the Beach: Nothing says Kiwi summer like fish and chips by the sea! After a day of sun and sand, head to Red Snapper in Sumner—a local favourite known for its fresh-as-it-gets seafood. Pick up some takeaways and settle in on the beach, or grab a seat in their outdoor dining area. Either way, it’s the perfect way to wrap up a beach day.
Dinner at Food Truck Alley: Make it your new Sunday tradition! Every Sunday from 4–8 pm (until daylight saving ends in March), Food Truck Alley at Mount Pleasant Community Centre is the place to be. Bring the kids, the dog, and a picnic blanket for a relaxed evening of great food, live music, and a playground for the little ones. Keep an eye out for bouncy castles, pony rides, and face painting.
Lyttelton Farmer’s Market: Make a beeline for Divine Berries at Lyttelton Market on a Saturday and grab a huge punnet of their famously sweet strawberries. Yes, there will almost definitely be a queue, but trust us—one bite, and you’ll know it was worth it.
Paddle the Avon: Why walk when you can paddle? Antigua Boat Sheds have everything from single kayaks ($20/hr) to paddle boats ($30/half hour), complete with kids’ life vests. Glide along the Avon and soak up the scenery while the kids practice their best pirate impressions.
Take it to New Heights on the Gondola: For those days when you need to remind yourself there’s more to life than laundry and Lego underfoot, the Christchurch Gondola has you covered. Soak in the views, snap a family selfie, and let the altitude do the heavy lifting of making everything seem more epic.
Alpaca Hugs in Akaroa: Think of alpacas as the cooler cousins of llamas—softer, friendlier, and ridiculously photogenic. Head to Shamarra Alpacas in Akaroa for an alpaca meet-and-greet that will have your kids begging for a new furry family member. Good luck with that.
Find Fairies and Other Tiny Wonders: Fairy trails are the ultimate summer hack for keeping the kids entertained and getting some fresh air. With hidden doors, whimsical sculptures, and just the right amount of whimsy, these walks are a guaranteed hit.
Freakshakes at Qubed Lounge: Cool off with the ultimate summer treat. Enter freakshakes—milkshakes piled high with whipped cream, candy, and everything in between. Qubed Coffee Lounge does them best, and honestly, they’re worth the sugar rush.
Explore the Sensory Gardens: Christchurch’s sensory gardens are a feast for the senses (literally—there’s edible stuff in some of them). Start with the SmileDial Sensory Garden in New Brighton, then head to Rolleston Library’s sensory space. Both are packed with hands-on fun for kids, and you might even learn a thing or two.
Swing Into Summer at Cass Bay: Cass Bay Playground isn’t your average park. The swings come with million-dollar views, and there’s a nearby stream perfect for crab-spotting. It’s the kind of place that makes you wonder why you don’t spend every summer day here.
Mini Golf with Dinos: Why play regular mini golf when you can play with dinosaurs? At Jurassic Adventure Mini Golf, you can dig for dinosaur bones between putts. It’s part excavation site, part golf course, and 100% guaranteed to make your kids feel like the next Indiana Jones.
The Arts Centre: Rain or shine, the Arts Centre delivers. From galleries and live performances to workshops and food stalls, it’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time—in a good way. Click here for our family-friendly guide.
Treat Yourself to Real Fruit Ice Cream: Few things say summer quite like real fruit ice cream. Fuse Real Fruit Ice Cream on Cashmere Road is a crowd-pleaser—bonus points for being opposite a grat playground. Or head to Prebbleton Real Fruit Ice Creams in the Healthy Harvest car park on Springs Road for a delicious treat after ticking off errands.
Book a Black Cat Cruise to Quail Island: For a summer adventure with a twist, hop aboard a Black Cat Cruise to Quail Island. For a splashier option, book a private dolphin swimming experience and turn your day into something unforgettable. Plus, under fives cruise free.
Relax at Tai Tapu Hotel: Spend a lazy afternoon in the gardens at the Tai Tapu Hotel. While the kids burn energy on the bouncy castle, you can kick back with a cold beer and enjoy the live band.
Paddle Your Way at The Groynes: Hire a paddle boat at The Groynes and explore this serene oasis just outside the city. The calm waters and surrounding greenery make it a peaceful spot for a family outing. Pedal boats, aqua trikes and canoes are available for hire at the Groynes Boat Hire from 10.30am to 4pm on the weekends.
Go Fishing at The Groynes: Take the kids fishing at The Groynes, where young anglers (17 and under) can cast a line in the fishing lakes all year round. Kids under 12 even fish for free with a licence from any sports shop. Grown-ups can join in during trout season (1 October to 30 April) at South Branch/Otukaikino Creek.
Water Play at Margaret Mahy Playground: Yes, we know it’s been done to death and it’s almost always busy, but the unique water play area at Margaret Mahy Playground makes it totally worth it. Kids can cool off in the interactive water features, climb towering structures, and race down slides
Go for a Dip in Lake Rua: Lake Rua is a top spot for kids who love water adventures. They can splash around, watch dragon boats glide by, or even try sailing. With plenty of space for a picnic and a relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect place for little ones to burn off energy while parents soak up the sun.
Pack a Picnic: Christchurch’s parks are summer perfection. Spread out at Halswell Quarry or Mona Vale Gardens for a classic picnic experience. These spots are ideal for kids to roam while you enjoy a moment of quiet with your sandwiches.
Hop on Halswell Miniature Trains: Every Sunday from 1pm to 4pm, the miniature trains at Halswell Domain offer $2 train rides. Watch the sailboats on the lake and go for a ‘quick’ play in the playground before calling it a day.
Get Your Wheels Turning at McLeans Island: Grab the bikes and hit the trails at McLeans Island. This family-friendly spot is perfect for riders of all ages, with plenty of trails to explore. Stop for snacks and a coffee at the coffee stand and try your hand at a few lawn games.
Embark on the Rhino Walk at Children’s Bay, Akaroa: No, they’re not real rhinos, but the sculptures along the Rhino Walk make this short hike an exciting adventure for little ones. It’s a quirky, scenic way to explore Akaroa.
Ride the Tram and Sweeten the Deal: Take a nostalgic tram ride through the city, stopping off for sweet treats at Rollickin Gelato along the way.
Explore Riccarton House and Bush: Storytime at Riccarton House on a Friday is a hit with younger kids. Afterwards, wander through Riccarton Bush and enjoy its tranquil, shaded paths.
Farmers Market Finds: Christchurch is bursting with markets, and summer is the perfect time to explore them. Riccarton Sunday Market has treasures galore (and a bouncy castle in summer), while Ohoka and Little River markets offer a charming rural vibe with plenty of yummy bites and fresh produce.
Step Into Street Art: Turn the city into an art gallery by taking a tour of Christchurch’s incredible street murals. Snap some pics, and maybe even spark your child’s inner artist.
Tea Time at Sign of the Kiwi: Perched on Cashmere Hill, Sign of the Kiwi is a dreamy spot for tea and scones. Enjoy the stunning views while soaking up the summer rays.
Animal Encounters at Glenlothian Farm: Take a trip to Glenlothian Farm in West Melton to feed their friendly animals—including wallabies! It’s a fun, interactive experience for animal lovers big and small.
Read more: Where to See, Pet and Feed Animals in Christchurch
Bunnies and Brunch at White Rabbit Café: White Rabbit Café combines two of the best things in life: brunch and bunnies. Kids can meet the café’s adorable resident rabbits and explore the pirate-themed play area while you enjoy your coffee.
Kaiapoi River Queen: Enjoy lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner aboard the Kaiapoi River Queen. This boat offers a relaxing way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Kaiapoi River, and the kids will love the novelty of dining on the water.
Community Garden Adventures: New Brighton’s Community Garden offers more than just greenery, there’s a play space amongst the fruit trees, and you can even paint rocks.
Shands Road Christmas Experience: Head to the Shands Road Christmas Experience for animated displays, a rock-synced light show, and a stroll through a unique Xmas village. Open nightly From 30th November through to 30th December, 8.30pm till 11.30 pm every night. At $5 for kids and $15 for adults, this is one festive stop you won’t want to miss.
Scavenger Hunt at the Botanic Gardens: Turn a walk in the Botanic Gardens into an adventure! Grab a free scavenger hunt sheet from the kiosk and see what you can spot.
Explore Orton Bradley Park: Orton Bradley Park, a sprawling 650ha property on the southern shores of Lyttelton Harbour, is open every day of the year. Kids can get their fill of fun at the large adventure playground with a flying fox and stream, while the whole family can enjoy short mountain bike tracks. Don’t forget to refuel at the Orton Bradley Cafe, where Paella Sundays are the new highlight. For a slice of history, check out the charming heritage buildings, including stone cottages and the mill house.
Human Foosball at Velocity Karts: Ready to kick it up a notch? This outdoor Human Foosball at Velocity Karts is your chance to step inside the game, literally! Just like the classic table version, but with a twist—you kick the ball! Grab your littles and their friends to team up for a 30-minute game at Velocity Karts, located in Bexley Reserve.
Christchurch Adventure Park: Take in stunning views from New Zealand’s longest chairlift at Christchurch Adventure Park. Kids under 10 ride free (must be over 1 metre tall), and there’s a free Kids Bike and Pump Loop Trail for young families. Explore the whimsical Fairy Doors around the park, and experience the thrill of New Zealand’s highest zipline at 150 metres. A family of four can zipline for $450 or grab a Chairlift Pass for unlimited rides all year for $200.
Go camping in Little River: A hidden gem just outside Christchurch, Little River Campground is perfect for those seeking a quick getaway. Offering both powered and non-powered sites, plus cosy cabins for those who prefer not to rough it. Kids (and adults) will love the slippery mudslides, trampolines, and massive tree swings—perfect for letting loose and having fun. Plus, the affordable rates, free Wi-Fi, and dog-friendly policy make it an even better choice. Ideal for first-time campers!
Slack Line & Biking at Kakaha Park: Test your balance on the slack line at Kakaha Park, then speed through the park’s graded mountain biking trails—perfect for little adventurers and big kids at heart.
Backyard Bouncy Castle: Transform your backyard into a mini amusement park! Hire a bouncy castle and let the kids bounce, jump, and laugh their way through the afternoon.
Nature Play Playgrounds: Discover the magic of Christchurch’s nature play playgrounds. From climbing trees to splashing in muddy puddles à la Peppa Pig, these spaces let kids explore, create, and play in a whole new way.
Learn to Surf in Sumner: Little ones can catch their first wave at Sumner with surf lessons designed for kids aged 8-16. The SURFKIDS program runs every Sunday at 10 am, while teens 13-18 can join after-school sessions. Prices start at $35 per lesson or save with multi-lesson packages: $165 for five or $320 for ten. Perfect for budding surfers ready to ride the waves.
Make a Splash at Aqualand NZ: Aqualand NZ is the ultimate summer playground! Just 20 minutes from Christchurch, this inflatable aquapark opens November 30th and promises nonstop fun. Kids 6+ (and strong swimmers!) can bounce, slide, and splash their way through 50 minutes of epic action. Tickets are $26.99 for kids and $31.99 for adults.
Watch the races Woodford Glen Speedway: For over 45 years, Woodford Glen Speedway has thrilled families with heart-pounding action and unbeatable entertainment. Running from October to March, the summer season features 16 adrenaline-fueled race nights perfect for fans of all ages. Whether you’re a die-hard speedster or just after a fun, affordable night out with the kids, this track delivers. Children under 5 go free!
Go for a coastal stroll: Take the kids on a 6.5-kilometre coastal adventure! This shared path from Ferrymead to Scarborough Beach is perfect for walking, biking, or scootering with little ones. Along the way, enjoy estuary views, spot seabirds, and explore the sandy shoreline. Need a break? Swing by The Lil Brew for fluffies (with sprinkles!), tasty baked treats, and a kid-friendly outdoor play area.
Pōhatu Penguins – Penguin Adventure Tour: Head out on a fun, scenic 4WD adventure from Akaroa to Pōhatu/Flea Bay, home to New Zealand’s largest Little Penguin colony! Perfect for nature-loving families, this small-group tour lets you get up close to over 1,500 penguins. You’ll travel through stunning countryside, past Akaroa’s extinct volcano, and into the peaceful bay, where you’ll walk around penguin nesting sites and learn about penguin conservation. Keep an eye out for these cute birds on the water and, if you’re lucky, spot them returning to shore at dusk. Kids will love the binoculars and telescope for getting a closer look at these amazing little creatures! Plus, during summer, you might even catch a glimpse of penguin rehab in action. Click here for more details.
Borrow Water Play Toys from Your Local Toy Library: Beat the heat by borrowing fun water toys from your local toy library! Whether it’s sprinklers, water play tables, or inflatable pools, they’ve got everything to keep your kids cool and entertained all summer long.
Lincoln Wetlands Walk: Start your day with a fun hop across stepping stones and stroll through tall reeds with the kids. If you’re quiet, you might catch sight of some wetland birds swimming in the lake. Located just outside Lincoln, this peaceful spot is perfect for a picnic or a frisbee game in the large grassy field. Afterwards, head into Lincoln township for a visit to the local library or grab a treat at one of the cosy cafés. Dalante Artisan Bakery does some of the best pizzas in Christchurch.
The Raspberry Café: Treat yourself to some of the best cake slices around while the kids enjoy the sandpit at this family-friendly gem. Nestled in Tai Tapu, The Raspberry Café is perfect for a relaxed afternoon where everyone gets a little slice of happiness
Richmond Community Garden & Adventure Ave: Explore two fantastic spots within walking distance of each other! Richmond Community Garden offers plenty of ever-changing ways for families to play and connect with nature. Don’t skip out on the community garden’s Riverlution Café, home to delicious baked goods and a mud kitchen that kids will love tinkering with. Just up the road, Adventure Ave—designed by kids, for kids—features a bike track, secret nature play zones, and an epic tree hut that’s sure to spark imagination.
Featured image courtesy of Pexels
