Nestled along River Avon and home to green gardens, gothic-styled churches, cricketing folks and a temperate climate, Christchurch is as English as it can get. This colourful city is vastly considered an ideal location for a family holiday for its visual appeal and oozing freshness, which can be a real treat to the young ones.
Holidaying with children can be fun and easy when there is a solid plan in place. A reliable car rental in Christchurch will let you easily and conveniently get to all the planned places. Read on to find out some of the best places to explore while visiting Christchurch with kids.
The Christchurch Gondola
The famous cable car, or gondola, of Christchurch is suspended up in the air above the plains of Canterbury with a 360-degree view of the cityscape from the most dramatic location. This must-see attraction is available every day of the year and starts from outside the Canterbury Museum. A ride on the Gondola also allows children to experience the Time Tunnel and a quick bite at the Red Rock Café afterwards.
Orana Wildlife Park
A trip to New Zealand can never be complete without catching glimpses of its iguanas and skinks! Children visiting the Orana Wildlife Park get to see kiwis, gorillas, rhinos, alpacas, giraffes and a whole range of reptiles. The zoo also organises feed tours and up-close encounters with animals on a regular basis. Families visiting the zoo can enjoy delicious meals at the cafes, shop for souvenirs and take advantage of the BBQ facilities present within the premises.
YMCA Climbing Wall
For all the little adventure lovers, the Christchurch YMCA Indoor Climbing Wall is great for some fun and action. Located on Hereford Street, the place is best suited for kids starting from the age of 12. The wall is one of the largest in the island and has over 75 routes.
Chipmunks Indoor Playland and Café
Chipmunks Indoor Playland is pure entertainment for children. With mazes, ball pools, giant inflatable slides, blaster canons, bumper cars and trains, there is no space for boredom at Chipmunks. Parents can relax during their holiday while their kids catch up on some good fun in this indoor play area.
The International Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch is a must-visit attraction for kids and adults alike. Visitors can enjoy hours of interactive fun in the snow, learn more about life in Antarctica and spend time with penguins. Kids are sure to be mesmerized by the thrilling, simulated 4D cruise and the Hagglund Ride.
