Family-Friendly Spots to See in Christchurch, New Zealand

Located on South Island along Pegasus Bay, just south of Waimakariri River, Christchurch, New Zealand, boasts English history, modern attractions and wild beauty. Explore the city’s natural side and colonial culture with bike outings, scenic hikes and city tours.

Nature

Nestled between two bodies of water, Christchurch is littered with scenic beauty for your family to explore on foot, bike or boat. Check out the wetlands and lush gardens of Halswell Quarry Park, hike to Victoria Park for unbeatable views of center city or view wildlife in The Groynes and Styx Mill Conservation Reserve & Travis Wetlands.

Bring the older kids on a vineyard tour through Canterbury, a historic English region of Christchurch. The sunny days, ocean winds and Waipara Valley landscape offers pristine grape-growing conditions and a wide variety of vineyards to explore.

Get the family out on the water and boat tour with flat-bottomed punts, floating along the Avon River. This top-tourist attraction showcases the city views and natural beauty of its parks while flowing right through the center of Christchurch.

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City Life

The city is charming with a blend of small-town community charm and bustling nightlife. Hit the various farmers’ markets including Christchurch Farmers’ Market on Saturdays and Riccarton Market on Sundays, stocking up the Airbnb for your trip or loading up the suitcase with local goods to take home.

Enjoy local cuisine and family-friendly nightspots from center city spots to surrounding suburbs. Head to Victoria Street for traditional European cuisine at Saggio di Vino, or check out the renovated Botanic Garden turned Spanish-inspired fare restaurant Curator’s House on Rolleston Ave.

History & Culture

Christchurch, known for its English heritage and rich history, boasts a blend of modern art and museums, street art and a restored historic center. Although many of the city’s most historic buildings and landmarks were destroyed by earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the region has been rejuvenated with modern, stylish updates with a blend of its historic past.

Cycle through town sightseeing and enjoying the atmosphere or opt for a tour through the Arts Centre. Explore on your own with local experts learning about The Great Hall and Rutherford’s Den and bring along the little artists to try their hand at a class or enjoy a live performance during one of the Centre’s many concert series.