Shopping with kids can be a challenge, but The Crossing makes it a breeze. With fluffies, family-friendly dining, and plenty of shops designed for parents, it’s the perfect spot for a stress-free outing with the little ones.
Taking kids to the mall isn’t usually a relaxing experience—snack demands, tired complaints five minutes in, and the chaos of keeping small humans entertained while you attempt to tick things off your list. But The Crossing? It’s a different story.
Right in the heart of Christchurch on 166 Cashel Street, The Crossing blends fashion, food, and family-friendly convenience in one beautifully designed precinct. It’s a diverse yet intimate, one-hectare space with heritage facades, cutting-edge architecture, enticing laneways, and open public areas to explore. It’s home to a mix of New Zealand designers, global brands, and boutique stores you won’t find just anywhere—plus great coffee, easy pram access, and solid food options to keep everyone happy.
Whether you’re hunting for a new outfit, grabbing a fluffy for the kids, or squeezing in some retail therapy between errands, The Crossing makes it easy. You can browse a continually evolving mix of fashion, food, beauty, and lifestyle brands, all while enjoying a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Conceived as the true heart of post-earthquake Christchurch, The Crossing sets the benchmark for retail in the city. It’s the only precinct within the central city where you can shop, eat, and park—all with a family-friendly vibe that ensures everyone leaves happy. Here’s where to go next time you’re in town…
Note: All exclusive nook perks are available until Wednesday, 30 April 2025
Read more: Things to Do With Kids in Christchurch City Centre: Your Family-Friendly Guide
Your family-friendly guide to The Crossing:
Coffee, Snacks, and Food That Works for Families:
Coffee Culture
The go-to spot for a solid caffeine hit and a much-needed sit-down. The baristas at Coffee Culture know their stuff, the cabinet food is fresh, and there’s plenty of space to park a pram. Kids get a free fluffy, which means at least five minutes of peace while they sip on frothy milk. If you’re after something sweet, the slices are a safe bet—rich, chocolatey, and guaranteed to buy you some quiet time.
nook Perk: Mention nook NZ when you order a coffee and enjoy a free kid’s hot chocolate.
Crêpes de la Monde
Freshly made crêpes that feel like a treat but aren’t a total sugar bomb (unless you go full Nutella—no judgment). They do a great ham-and-cheese option for kids, and the strawberry and whipped cream crêpes are always a hit. There’s seating inside, but they’re just as easy to eat on the go.
nook Perk: Mention Nook for 10% off your order!
Gre3n Superfood & Juice Bar
If your kid prefers smoothies over fluffies, Gre3n is the spot. They serve fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and protein shakes, plus all the superfood add-ons if that’s your thing. The berry smoothies are an easy win with kids.
nook Perk: Mention Nook NZ for a free mini smoothie in the same flavour as yours.
The Chicken
Sure, nuggets and fries are a staple of family life, but sometimes you want to level up. The Chicken delivers on crispy, juicy, top-notch Korean Fried Chicken—think golden, crunchy perfection with just the right amount of spice. Their $9.90 lunch deal is hard-to-beat, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between errands or refuelling after a shopping mission with the kids. And hey, if the little ones insist on nuggets, we won’t judge.
Elements
For a proper child-friendly sit-down meal, Elements is your best bet. They’ve got all the brunch staples—eggs, pancakes, and smashed avo (one of the best we’ve had!). They’ve even created a secret kids’ menu just for nook NZ readers, featuring egg on toast for $9 (add bacon for $3) and kids’ French toast for $12, so don’t forget to mention nook to enjoy these exclusive dishes.
nook Perk: Enjoy 10% off your table, plus complimentary fluffies or hot chocolates for the kids when you mention nook. Don’t forget about the secret menu!
FreshChoice
Forgot the snacks? Rookie mistake. FreshChoice at The Crossing has everything from emergency rice crackers to last-minute lunchbox fillers, plus barista coffee to keep you going. Whether you need fresh fruit to balance out the bribery biscuits or just a quick dinner fix, it’s the perfect pit stop for parents on the go.
Lil’ Ruby (inside FreshChoice City Market)
A hidden gem for parents in need of caffeine. Lil’ Ruby is tucked inside FreshChoice and serves up Allpress coffee, fresh juices, and a range of healthy snacks. They also do free fluffies for kids, making it an easy stop before tackling the grocery shopping.
Bar Franco
Date night? What’s that? If you do manage to sneak away for an evening, Bar Franco is the spot. Cosy lighting, Mediterranean tapas, and an impressive drinks list—this is the kind of place that makes you feel like a real adult again. Soak in the vibes, order something delicious, and pretend you don’t have an early wake-up call tomorrow.
Read more: Your Family-Friendly Guide to The Arts Centre in Christchurch
Family-Friendly Shopping:
Country Road
A reliable go-to for well-made kids’ clothes that actually last. You’ll find everything from everyday basics to dressier outfits for special occasions. The baby range is especially good—soft, comfy, and hard to resist adding to your cart.
Seed Heritage
If your little one loves anything sparkly, twirly, or covered in cute prints, Seed Heritage is worth a visit. They’ve got a great mix of stylish and practical pieces, plus a solid range of baby and toddler clothes. There’s also a cute kids’ corner with books to keep little ones busy while you browse.
H&M
Affordable basics, seasonal essentials, and last-minute outfit fixes. The H&M kids’ section is packed with mix-and-match pieces, and the baby range is great for stocking up on onesies. Perfect for those sudden temperature drops when you need an emergency hoodie.
Sunglass Hut
Little one used your sunglasses for dress-up? Time to upgrade. Sunglass Hut at The Crossing has all the big names—Ray-Ban, Prada, Oakley—and staff who actually know which frames suit your face. Whether you need classic, sporty, or something that says, “I totally slept last night,” they’ve got you covered. Bonus: they even have kids’ shades, so your little stylist can get their own pair.
Gifts, Toys, and Homeware:
The Gift Shop
If you’re hunting for a last-minute present, The Gift Shop has plenty of options. There’s a mix of homewares, accessories, and kids’ gifts, including plush toys, wooden puzzles, and creative activity sets.
nook Perk: Mention Nook for 10% off your purchase
A&C Homestore
For parents who love stylish but practical homeware, A&C Homestore is full of great finds. Their handpicked collection of homewares, furniture, fashion, and gifts brings together timeless style with a modern touch. From exclusive in-house creations to locally crafted gems and standout international finds, every piece tells a story. Whether you’re revamping a room or searching for that perfect gift, the team is ready to help you uncover something special—either in-store or sourced just for you.
Self-Care (Because Parents Deserve Nice Things Too)
Lovoir Day Spa
If you somehow find yourself kid-free for an hour, this is the place to go. Lovoir offers facials, massages, and all the pampering treatments you never make time for. A little slice of calm in the middle of the city.
ProfessioNAIL
A quick and easy spot for a manicure or pedicure. And if you’ve got a little one in tow, they’ll do a free nail painting for kids—keeping them entertained while you get your nails done.
nook Perk: Mention nook for a free kids’ manicure to accompany your own!
Read more: Mini and Me Manicures: Where to Get Your Nails Done with Your Kids in Christchurch
Kess Hair
If your kid is due for a haircut (or you need a trim yourself), Kess Hair is a solid option. They do affordable, quality cuts, and you don’t need an appointment—just walk in and they’ll sort you out.
Twiggi Hair
Kids’ haircuts, post-baby regrowth, or just a much-needed ‘me time’ moment—Twiggi Hair gets it. Their stylists are magic with scissors and colour, and they know how to make you feel human again (even if you’ve been up all night with a teething toddler). Bonus points if you can squeeze in a blow-dry before the school run.
nook Perk: Haircuts, hot chocolates, and a little sparkle? Yes, please! Twiggi Hair is giving nook readers 10% off—just mention you’re a nook fan when booking. Fluffies, hair sparkles, and a sweet treat at the end make it a win for the kids (and an easy yes for you).
IHF Health Club
Need a little time out from parenting? IHF Health Club at The Crossing has everything you need to reset—state-of-the-art equipment, expert coaching, plunge pools, and saunas that double as a temporary escape. Smash out a workout, unwind, then meet the family for brunch at Elements next door. Balance, right?
Quick Fit Alterations
Kids grow. Clothes don’t. Whether it’s patching up torn knees, taking in that dress you swore would fit forever, or fixing the hem that mysteriously unravelled, Quick Fit Alterations has you covered. Fast, reliable, and conveniently located, they’ll keep your family’s wardrobe in shape—because buying new every time just isn’t sustainable (or affordable).
Why The Crossing Actually Works for Families
- Free fluffies
- Easy pram access with wide walkways and elevators
- Shops that actually welcome families (no judgment for prams or snack-wielding toddlers)
- Plenty of food options beyond just chicken nuggets and fries (although we’re totally on board with that too!)
- Discounts for nook NZ readers at selected stores!
..and not forgetting the Parent’s Room!
The Parents’ Room on the first floor of The Crossing is easily one of the best in the city, designed with real-life parenting in mind. Tucked away on the first floor near the main toilets, it’s a quiet retreat when you need a break. The gated kids’ play area is a standout, packed with books, a rocking horse, busy boards, and plenty of toys to keep little hands busy while you catch your breath. There are private breastfeeding rooms for those who want a bit of privacy, along with comfy couches, a microwave, and a kettle for warming bottles or making a much-needed cup of tea. Plus, the child-sized toilet makes bathroom trips a whole lot easier. Whether you need a quick nappy change, a quiet feed, or just five minutes of peace, this space has you covered.
Parking at The Crossing
Dragging kids through a car park is no one’s idea of fun, but The Crossing makes it easy. With plenty of spaces, pram-friendly access, and a max charge of $8 for up to four hours on weekends and public holidays, you can shop, snack, and sip your coffee in peace—without worrying about a parking nightmare.
Espresso Car Wash
Parents, let’s be honest—our cars double as snack storage units. If your backseat looks like a crime scene of cracker crumbs and juice spills, Espresso Car Wash is here to help. Drop off your vehicle, let the pros work their magic, and come back to something that actually resembles a clean car. You might even convince yourself that this time, the kids will keep it tidy (spoiler: they won’t).
So next time you’re in town with the kids, The Crossing is actually worth the visit. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, tackling a shopping list, or just trying to kill some time, it’s one of the few places that makes life a little easier. And don’t forget—mention nook for those extra perks!
The Crossing, 166 Cashel Street (across from Mecca), Christchurch Central City, www.thecrossing.co.nz
This feature has been written in partnership with The Crossing
