Looking for Christchurch free activities that kids will actually love? As a dad raising two little ones here in Ōtautahi, I’ve had my share of “are-we-there-yet” moments, scraped knees, forgotten hats, and emergency fluffy stops. But through all that chaos, I’ve also discovered some pretty amazing places—completely free—that we keep going back to.
Christchurch is a city built for the outdoors. With over 1,000 parks and reserves, family fun doesn’t have to cost anything. Whether you’re here for a visit or just need to get out of the house before your toddler climbs the wall, this list is for you.
Here are our real-life, family-tested favourite free things to do in Christchurch. Pack a picnic, load up the bikes or scooters, and let’s go.
1. Margaret Mahy Playground – The Ultimate Inner-City Play Destination
If you only do one free thing in Christchurch with kids, make it this. Margaret Mahy Playground is New Zealand’s largest playground—and it lives up to the hype. Think: flying foxes, towering slides, in-ground trampolines, water play areas, and all kinds of climbing structures.
We often kick off the day at Tūranga Library right next door (another family favourite), grab some snacks or a fluffy from the café, then head over for a solid two hours of energy-burning play.
📝 Dad’s Note:
One weekday afternoon, we spontaneously hit Tūranga for LEGO, then wandered to the playground. It was nearly empty. The kids splashed, climbed, and devoured homemade cream buns under the trees. There’s a 2-hour free carpark nearby—don’t park across town like I did the first time.
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2. Sumner Beach & Scarborough Park – Splash Pads and Sandcastles
Christchurch free activities by the sea? Sumner has you covered. The beach is clean and calm, perfect for little ones. Scarborough Park playground has slides, climbing frames, and a summer splash pad.
Don’t miss the iconic Cave Rock at low tide—our kids always climb it pretending they’re pirates spotting treasure.
📝 Dad’s Note:
We brought the boogie board and picnic blanket. After a full hour of sandcastle competitions and chasing waves, the kids hit the paddling pool while we grabbed coffees. Absolute bliss. Just watch for jellyfish in summer (they’re rare, but memorable…).
3. Christchurch Botanic Gardens & Hagley Park – Green Bliss in the Heart of the City
You could spend an entire day here and still not see everything. The gardens are stroller-friendly, duck-filled, and have a surprisingly fun playground tucked into the trees. Add in riverside picnic spots and open space for frisbees or bubbles, and it’s a classic for a reason.
📝 Dad’s Note:
In winter, we warm up inside the conservatories. In spring, it’s all about cherry blossoms. In summer? The free paddling pool near the playground is the main event. Plus, Tūranga + Gardens = perfect day combo.
4. New Brighton Pier & Playground – Books, Beach, and a Splash Pad
A personal favourite of mine. The New Brighton Library on the beach is stunning (think: floor-to-ceiling ocean views while your kid builds with blocks or reads a picture book). Outside? Sand, surf, and a nautical-themed playground with a splash pad.
📝 Dad’s Note:
On hot days, we hit the splash pad and grab fish and chips on the beach wall. On cold days, we stay inside the library, sip fluffies, and watch surfers through the glass. There’s even a “quiet reading cave” where my youngest likes to hide and pretend she’s a dragon.
👉 Related read: Local Favourite Fish and Chips in Christchurch – New Brighton Edition
5. Bottle Lake Forest Fairy Village – Pure Imagination
One of Christchurch’s best hidden gems, especially for under-7s. The Fairy Village is a short loop trail through Bottle Lake Forest, dotted with tiny fairy doors, painted stones, and tree houses. All created by the community.
📝 Dad’s Note:
The first time we visited, we didn’t even make it 100m in before the kids were on their hands and knees peeking under logs. Bring a rock to decorate and leave behind—it’s a thing. Bikes/scooters work well on the wider trails too.
6. Riccarton Bush – A 600-Year-Old Forest in the City
It’s easy to forget this exists. Just behind Riccarton House is Pūtaringamotu, a protected native forest full of towering kahikatea trees. There’s a wooden boardwalk, tui in the trees, and a definite Jurassic Park vibe (minus the dinosaurs, thankfully).
📝 Dad’s Note:
The Saturday Riccarton Farmers Market makes this a full outing. Coffee and pastries for the grown-ups, then a quiet stroll through the bush where my son insists we pretend we’re explorers searching for treasure.
7. Port Hills & Victoria Park – For Sweaty Legs and Scenic Views
Want to give your kids a view without a cable car? Walk the Rapaki Track (great for bigger kids) or explore the Victoria Park trails and playground.
📝 Dad’s Note:
We tackled the Sugarloaf Circuit (4.2km). Took our time with snacks, silly photo stops, and cloud spotting. Bring layers—it gets chilly up there even on warm days. There’s also a flying fox and BBQs at the car park level for a more chill option.
8. Christchurch Adventure Park – Forest Walks for All Ages
Yes, the chairlift and mountain biking are paid, but the walking trails are 100% free and the atmosphere is unbeatable. You can even hike up and ride the chairlift down for free.
📝 Dad’s Note:
We grabbed coffee at the base café, then strolled one of the loop tracks while the kids “foraged” for pinecones. Felt like a proper holiday escape without leaving town. There’s also a mini zipline, free scooter zone, and clean bathrooms.
👉 Related read: Free Chairlift Hike at Christchurch Adventure Park – Is It Worth It?
9. Tūranga Central Library – A Rainy Day Life Saver
This isn’t just a library. It’s five stories of fun, with everything from LEGO walls and STEAM zones to interactive screens and dress-ups. There are regular storytimes, too—check the official event calendar for what’s on.
📝 Dad’s Note:
Honestly? We come here even when it’s sunny. There’s something for every age group, plus a good café for grown-ups. Pro tip: use the lifts to visit every floor once and call it a “sky tower adventure.”
10. Taylors Mistake & Godley Head – Coastal Walks with History
A slightly more adventurous pick. Start at Taylors Mistake and walk along the clifftop trail toward Godley Head. You’ll pass old WWII bunkers, get sweeping views, and maybe even see dolphins if you’re lucky.
📝 Dad’s Note:
Our youngest needed a shoulder ride on the way back, but the picnic overlooking the ocean was unforgettable. Take sunscreen, hats, and water—it’s exposed and windy but so, so worth it.
✅ Final Thoughts on Christchurch Free Activities
There you have it—our family’s top 10 Christchurch free activities, road-tested with snacks, tantrums, laughter, and all. The best part? You don’t need fancy gear or a big budget. You just need a sense of adventure (and maybe some extra wet wipes).
Whether you’re new to town or just need some fresh ideas, I hope this helps you get outside and make some memories—with your wallet still intact.
💬 What’s Your Go-To Spot?
Did I miss your favourite free activity in Christchurch? Drop a comment or message me—I’d love to add more local gems to our list.