CHRISTCHURCH FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Christchurch is a top destination for families in New Zealand, offering a diverse mix of outdoor fun, wildlife encounters, cultural learning, and hands-on adventures for kids and parents alike.

Families can enjoy a day at Orana Wildlife Park, where large, open habitats let you get closer to animals like giraffes and lions. For a native experience, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers encounters with New Zealand's iconic kiwi birds and other native wildlife in a peaceful, natural setting.

The International Antarctic Centre provides a unique indoor adventure where families can learn about Antarctica, experience sub-zero temperatures, and meet little blue penguins. For more educational outings, the Canterbury Museum features a range of interactive exhibits, including natural history and Antarctic exploration, while Christchurch Art Gallery runs creative workshops ideal for young artists.

Families interested in local history can explore Quake City, an interactive museum that tells the story of Christchurch’s earthquakes and its remarkable recovery. The Christchurch Tramway is another fun way to tour the central city and learn about its history.

Outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, one of the largest and most exciting playgrounds in the Southern Hemisphere. Punting on the Avon River offers a relaxing boat ride through the city’s green heart.

For adventurous families, Adrenalin Forest challenges all ages with high ropes courses set among the treetops. The Roxx Climbing Centre is another active indoor option, perfect for rainy days. A visit to Sumner Beach and Scarborough Park offers seaside relaxation and local cafes.

Other highlights include the Ferrymead Heritage Park, which offers a step back in time with vintage trams and colonial buildings, and the Christchurch Adventure Park, a haven for mountain biking and forest walks. Markets like Riccarton Market and Riverside Market give families a taste of local food and crafts in vibrant settings.

With a mix of cultural, historical, natural, and adventurous options, Christchurch family activities promise something fun and enriching for everyone.