Quick Facts
Our Verdict
Christchurch is the South Island hub and a genuinely underrated family destination. The International Antarctic Centre is world-class, the Gondola has incredible views, and it's one of the most affordable major cities to visit in NZ. Plus it's the base for road trips to Queenstown, Kaikoura and the West Coast.
Families using it as a South Island base, or those wanting an affordable city break
Those wanting beach holidays (beaches are cold, not tropical)
Christchurch in Photos
Christchurch — International Antarctic Centre Christchurch — world-class family attraction
Christchurch Gondola — panoramic views of the Alps and the sea
Botanic Gardens — free entry, 75 acres, brilliant for young kids
Christchurch — Watch Before You Go
Real footage of Christchurch — activities, scenery, and what to expect with kids.
Top Christchurch Family Activities
| Activity | Price (family 4) | Min age | Rain-safe | Must-do? | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Antarctic Centre | $65/adult, $43/child | 4+ | ✓ | Yes | Book |
| Christchurch Gondola | $32/adult, $16/child | 0+ | ✓ | Yes | Book |
| Willowbank Wildlife Reserve | $32/adult, $14/child | 0+ | — | — | Book |
| Orana Wildlife Park | $32/adult, $14/child | 0+ | — | Yes | Book |
| Punting on the Avon | $35/adult, $16/child | 0+ | — | — | Book |
Prices are indicative. Book via Bookme.co.nz for discounts up to 40%.
Christchurch Activity Reviews
International Antarctic Centre
Experience Antarctica — without actually going — in a world-class attraction
Christchurch Gondola
360° views of Christchurch, Banks Peninsula, and the Southern Alps
Free Things to Do in Christchurch with Kids
- ✓ Botanic Gardens (stunning, free)
- ✓ Hagley Park
- ✓ Te Ana Ngāi Tahu Rock Art Centre (free Tue–Fri)
- ✓ New Regent Street (restored heritage streetscape)
- ✓ Avon River Precinct walk
Rainy Day Options — Christchurch
3-Day Christchurch Family Itinerary
A structured day-by-day plan — adjust to your pace.
Antarctic Centre + City
~$130–200- International Antarctic Centre (spend 3+ hours)
- New Regent Street lunch
- Botanic Gardens walk (free)
- Punting on the Avon (optional)
Gondola + Wildlife
~$140–200- Christchurch Gondola morning (views of Banks Peninsula and Alps)
- Orana Wildlife Park (open range zoo, afternoon)
- Dinner in Riccarton
Lyttelton or Departure
~$20–60- Drive to Lyttelton Harbour (20 mins)
- Ferry to Diamond Harbour for a picnic
- Lyttelton Farmers Market (Sat only)
- Depart for Queenstown or Kaikoura
Want a longer trip? See our full NZ family itineraries with day-by-day plans up to 10 days.
Compare Campervans for This Trip →Where to Stay in Christchurch with Kids
Christchurch Family Holiday Budget
Christchurch Family FAQ
Is Christchurch worth visiting after the earthquakes?
Absolutely. The rebuild has created one of NZ's most interesting city centres — street art, container malls, modern architecture alongside heritage buildings. The 'gap filler' culture is unique.
What is Christchurch best known for?
The Antarctic Centre (genuinely world-class), the Gondola, and as the South Island's main hub. Also known for its garden city parks and punting on the Avon River.
Hidden Gems — Christchurch
Stuff the guidebooks miss — local knowledge from NZ families who've done it properly.
- 🔍 Canterbury Museum is completely FREE — world-class natural history and Antarctic exhibitions. Kids love the Antarctic section with real gear
- 🔍 Christchurch Art Gallery is free — rotating exhibitions, kids' programmes, excellent café
- 🔍 Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Harewood has the most accessible kiwi viewing in NZ — see kiwis walking around in a semi-dark enclosure at close range ($30 adult, $15 child)
- 🔍 Hagley Park has a free outdoor splash pad and playground near the Antigua Boat Sheds
- 🔍 Riccarton House and Bush — free walk through native bush in the middle of the city, tui everywhere
- 🔍 Christchurch's free tram now runs again — take it to see the earthquake rebuild story
- 🔍 Lane's Emporium in Little High Eatery — 8 food vendors under one roof, $8–15 mains, great for fussy eaters
Connect with NZ Families — Facebook Groups
Real advice from NZ parents — trip reports, questions, and recommendations. Join before you go.
📬 Get our free Christchurch packing list & travel tips
Join NZ families planning their next holiday — destination tips, real costs, and hidden gems delivered to your inbox.