Christchurch on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Fun & Free Family Fun
Are you planning an incredible New Zealand family vacation? Exploring Christchurch on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding, making it a perfect stop on any South Island travel itinerary. As locals, we’ve spent years uncovering the best-kept secrets and wallet-friendly gems this beautiful city has to offer.
Forget the idea that travel has to be expensive. Christchurch is a city reborn, filled with lush green spaces, creative energy, and endless opportunities for adventure. This guide is packed with our favorite low cost family activities in Christchurch, helping you create priceless memories without the hefty price tag.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll share our personal favorites, a sample itinerary, and must-know tips to help you make the most of your trip. We’ll show you exactly how to enjoy the best of the city without breaking the bank.
Why Christchurch is a Perfect Budget-Friendly Destination
Christchurch, often called the “Garden City,” offers a unique mix of urban regeneration and natural beauty. After the 2011 earthquakes, the city reinvented itself, with a strong focus on community, art, and accessible public spaces. This makes it a fantastic destination for families looking for value and affordable fun.
Its flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike, saving you money on transportation. Many of the best Garden City attractions are free, from its world-famous parks to its stunning coastal trails. This focus on accessible nature makes budget travel in Christchurch a breeze.
Our Top 5: The Best Budget-Friendly Christchurch Attractions
Here are the go-to spots we take our own friends and family. These activities deliver maximum fun for minimal cost and are the perfect building blocks for your Christchurch itinerary on a budget.
1. Soak and Relax at He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools
You can’t beat a relaxing soak in a hot pool, especially with a stunning ocean view. The He Puna Taimoana hot pools in New Brighton are a modern, clean, and family-friendly oasis.
The facility has five saltwater hot pools with temperatures ranging from a gentle 26°C to a toasty 40°C, a plunge pool, a steam room, and a sauna. One of our top He Puna Taimoana booking tips is to always reserve your spot online in advance, as they carefully manage capacity so it never feels uncomfortably crowded.
Know Before You Go: A session lasts for two hours, which is the perfect amount of time for a family. Pack your own towels, swimwear, and a reusable water bottle. While you can rent towels, bringing your own is a simple way to stick to your budget.
2. Experience Local Life at the Riccarton Sunday Market
For a true taste of local Christchurch, you have to visit the Riccarton Sunday Market. As New Zealand’s largest outdoor market, it’s a vibrant hub for artisan crafts and, most importantly, food! The variety of Riccarton Sunday Market food is incredible, making it a perfect spot for finding cheap eats for the family in Christchurch.
Wander through stalls selling everything from fresh produce and plants to second-hand clothing and handmade jewelry. The atmosphere is buzzing with live music and performers. On our last visit, the highlight was a Japanese ramen stall. The 40-minute wait was a testament to its quality—and absolutely worth it!
Budget Tip: Bring cash, as not all vendors have EFTPOS. Arrive with an empty stomach and do a full lap before deciding what to eat—the options are endless!
3. Hike Up, Ride Down at the Christchurch Adventure Park
When we moved to Christchurch, I was constantly looking for ways to get the family outdoors without a hefty price tag. We’ve discovered some amazing spots, but one of our favourites has to be the Christchurch Adventure Park.
The Christchurch Adventure Park is famous for its mountain biking, but it holds a secret that makes it one of the best affordable places to visit in Christchurch: a free chairlift ride for hikers!
The park offers one of the best free family walks Christchurch has to offer. The 5.3km uphill trail is well-marked and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The terrain is a mix of gravel paths and forest tracks, so sturdy shoes are a must. As you climb, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the city.
Here’s the brilliant part: the Christchurch Adventure Park free chairlift ride down is completely free for hikers. This is a game-changer for families, especially if you’re exploring Christchurch with toddlers on a budget, as my own three-year-old loved the reward of the ride down after his little legs got tired.
4. Discover History on the Godley Head Loop Track
As part of the scenic Port Hills walks on the Banks Peninsula, the Godley Head Loop Track (Awaroa) offers some of the most dramatic coastal views near the city.
This free 8km loop hike starts from the Taylors Mistake car park and passes historic World War II military remnants, including old gun emplacements and bunkers. It adds a fascinating historical layer to the stunning natural beauty. When it comes to doing the Godley Head Loop Track with kids, it depends on their age; my older son could handle it, but it was too long for my youngest.
For the most up-to-date trail information and any potential alerts, it’s always best to check the official Department of Conservation (DOC) website before you go.
5. Take a Scenic Ferry to Diamond Harbour
A quick and scenic day trip from Christchurch is to take the ferry from Lyttelton to Diamond Harbour. Lyttelton itself is worth a visit, especially if you can time your trip with the Saturday Farmers Market.
The ferry ride is short and offers beautiful harbor views. Once at Diamond Harbour, there are a number of short hikes to explore with the family. The best part is that you can use your public transport card for the ferry, making it a super affordable way to see more of the region.
It’s a perfect example of a realistic, budget-friendly family day out. Check out our previous post for more details on this trip: Diamond Harbour Ferry Fun: Our Budget Family Day Trip
Digging Deeper: More Incredible Free Attractions in Christchurch
Your budget-friendly adventure doesn’t stop there! The city is packed with world-class free attractions.
Wander Through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Located in the heart of the city, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens are a must-visit. Spanning 21 hectares, this lush paradise is free to enter and offers hours of exploration. You can wander through the stunning rose gardens, explore the tropical plant collections in the conservatories, or simply lay a blanket down by the Avon River. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic.
Unleash Your Inner Child at the Margaret Mahy Playground
This isn’t just any playground; it’s one of the largest and best in the Southern Hemisphere. The Margaret Mahy Playground is a wonderland for children of all ages. It features giant slides, a splash pad for hot days, climbing nets, trampolines, and a massive flying fox. It’s centrally located, completely free, and guaranteed to be a highlight for your kids.
Step Back in Time at the Canterbury Museum
Discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Canterbury region at this fascinating museum. From Maori artifacts and Antarctic expeditions to the Paua Shell House and exhibits on the city’s history, there is something to capture everyone’s interest. Entry is free, though a donation is appreciated to help with its upkeep.
Discover an Urban Canvas: Christchurch’s Street Art
In the years following the earthquakes, Christchurch became a global hub for street art. Artists from around the world covered blank walls with vibrant, meaningful murals. You can spend hours wandering the central city on a self-guided tour, discovering these incredible pieces. It’s like visiting a world-class outdoor art gallery for free.
Best Times to Visit Christchurch on a Budget: A Seasonal Guide
You can find value for money in Christchurch year-round, but visiting in the shoulder seasons is often best for budget travelers.
- Spring (September – November): The city bursts into color, especially at the Botanic Gardens. The weather is mild, perfect for hiking, and you’ll find lower prices on flights and accommodation than in summer.
- Summer (December – February): This is the peak season, but you can still enjoy a budget trip by focusing on free outdoor activities like visiting the city’s beaches (Sumner and New Brighton) and having picnics in the park.
- Autumn (March – May): The crowds thin out, and Hagley Park transforms with stunning autumn colors. The weather is often calm and settled, making it a beautiful time for exploring.
- Winter (June – August): While colder, winter can be a magical time. Enjoy crisp walks, cozy up in the museum or library, and take advantage of the lowest prices of the year.
Sample 3-Day Christchurch Budget Itinerary for Families
Here’s how you could structure a fun-filled, low-cost long weekend.
Day 1: City Centre Exploration
- Morning: Start at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Let the kids run around while you admire the stunning plant collections. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the Avon River.
- Afternoon: Walk over to the Canterbury Museum for a dose of history and culture. Afterward, head to the Margaret Mahy Playground to burn off any remaining energy.
- Evening: Take a self-guided street art tour through the central city, then find a cheap and cheerful dinner spot.
Day 2: Coastal Adventure
- Morning: Drive to Taylors Mistake and hike a portion of the Godley Head Loop Track for incredible ocean views.
- Afternoon: Head to New Brighton for a pre-booked session at the He Puna Taimoana hot pools.
- Evening: Enjoy a simple dinner of fish and chips on the beach while watching the sunset over the New Brighton Pier.
Day 3: Harbour and Hills
- Morning (if it’s a Saturday): Explore the Lyttelton Farmers Market. If not, drive up to the Port Hills for amazing views from the Sign of the Kiwi.
- Afternoon: Take the ferry from Lyttelton to Diamond Harbour. Go for a short walk and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Evening: Head back to the city for a final farewell dinner, perhaps trying another of the city’s affordable eateries.
Essential Tips for Visiting Christchurch on a Budget
Visitor spending in Christchurch reached $3 billion for the year ending September 2023, showing its rising popularity. But you can easily enjoy it without overspending. Furthermore, a recent survey revealed that 89% of New Zealanders believe access to nature is important for well-being—a belief Christchurch embodies.
Our Top Tips: How to Save Money in Christchurch
- Use the Metro Bus System: The bus network is efficient and affordable. Get a Metrocard for discounted fares.
- Cook Your Own Meals: Book accommodation with a kitchen. Shopping at supermarkets like Pak’nSave is far cheaper than eating out for every meal.
- Refill Your Water Bottle: Tap water in New Zealand is safe and delicious. Carry a reusable bottle to stay hydrated for free.
- Look for Deals: Check websites like BookMe for discounts on paid attractions if you decide to splurge.
Christchurch on a Budget: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What can you do in Christchurch for free?
Christchurch is full of amazing free activities! You can visit the Botanic Gardens, play at the Margaret Mahy Playground, explore the Canterbury Museum, hike the Godley Head track, enjoy the beaches, or take a self-guided street art tour. The options are endless.
Q2: Is Christchurch an expensive city for a family holiday?
It doesn’t have to be! While some attractions have entry fees, Christchurch offers more free and low-cost family activities than many other major cities. By focusing on parks, hikes, and markets, and self-catering some meals, you can have a fantastic and affordable trip.
Q3: How do you get around Christchurch cheaply?
The best way is to use the Metro bus system with a Metrocard for discounted fares. The central city is also very flat and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Renting bikes is another great, low-cost option for exploring the city’s many cycle paths.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Christchurch for budget travelers?
The shoulder seasons (spring from September to November and autumn from March to May) are ideal. You’ll find lower prices on flights and accommodation compared to the peak summer months, but the weather is still pleasant for outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
Making unforgettable family memories doesn’t require a huge budget, and Christchurch is living proof. Now you have all the building blocks for an amazing Christchurch itinerary on a budget. With its resilient spirit, abundance of nature, and focus on community spaces, the city offers a wealth of experiences that are both enriching and affordable.
So pack your bags, grab your walking shoes, and get ready to explore everything this amazing city has to offer. Your family adventure in Christchurch on a budget awaits.
