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A Week of Family-Friendly Fun in Christchurch

Saturday, October 21: Exploring the Botanic Gardens

Spend your morning at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a beautiful oasis filled with stunning flowers, native plants, and tranquil walking paths. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Avon River. In the afternoon, visit the Canterbury Museum to learn about the region's history and natural wonders. As the evening approaches, head to New Regent Street, a charming pedestrian mall lined with colorful Spanish-style buildings, for dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants.

  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Canterbury Museum: Adult $15, Child (5-15) $5, 2-3 hours
  • New Regent Street: Cost varies, time spent depends on activities
Sunday, October 22: Enjoying Nature at Hagley Park

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Hagley Park, a vast green space offering playgrounds, walking trails, and beautiful gardens. Rent bicycles for the family and explore the park's extensive bike paths. In the afternoon, visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive and educational experience. Wrap up the day with a relaxing punting tour on the Avon River.

  • Hagley Park: Free, time spent depends on activities
  • International Antarctic Centre: Adult $59, Child (5-15) $29, 2-3 hours
  • Avon River Punting: Adult $30, Child (3-15) $20, 45 minutes
Monday, October 23: Discovering Wildlife at Orana Wildlife Park

Embark on a wildlife adventure at Orana Wildlife Park, where you can see and interact with a wide range of animals, including lions, giraffes, and kiwis. Enjoy a picnic lunch within the park's picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Air Force Museum of New Zealand to learn about the country's aviation history. End the day with a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for a unique opportunity to see native New Zealand wildlife up close.

  • Orana Wildlife Park: Adult $39, Child (5-14) $19, 4-6 hours
  • Air Force Museum of New Zealand: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: Adult $32, Child (5-15) $16, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, October 24: Exploring Quake City and the Re:START Mall

Gain insight into the devastating earthquakes that struck Christchurch at Quake City, an interactive museum displaying artifacts and stories from the earthquakes. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Re:START Mall, a unique shopping precinct constructed from shipping containers. Spend the afternoon exploring the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū for a dose of art and culture.

  • Quake City: Adult $20, Child (5-15) $10, 2-3 hours
  • Re:START Mall: Cost varies, time spent depends on activities
  • Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Adventure at the Christchurch Adventure Park

Get your adrenaline pumping at the Christchurch Adventure Park, where you can enjoy mountain biking, ziplining, and a scenic chairlift ride. Have lunch at the park's café while taking in the panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Margaret Mahy Playground, the largest playground in the Southern Hemisphere, for hours of family fun.

  • Christchurch Adventure Park: Activities priced individually, time spent depends on activities
  • Margaret Mahy Playground: Free, time spent depends on activities
Thursday, October 26: Historical Journey at the Tramway and Timeball Station

Start your day with a ride on the Christchurch Tramway, a heritage tram that takes you through the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the Arts Centre, located in the historic Gothic Revival buildings of the University of Canterbury. Have lunch at the Riverside Market, a bustling marketplace offering a variety of delicious food options. In the afternoon, visit the Timeball Station, a Victorian-era historic site that used to help ships set their clocks.

  • Christchurch Tramway: Adult $25, Child (5-15) $5, 2-3 hours
  • Arts Centre: Free, time spent depends on activities
  • Riverside Market: Cost varies, time spent depends on activities
  • Timeball Station: Adult $10, Child (5-15) $5, 1-2 hours
Friday, October 27: Day Trip to Akaroa

Take a day trip to the charming town of Akaroa, located on the Banks Peninsula. Enjoy a scenic drive and explore the town's French heritage through the colonial architecture and local cuisine. Take a harbor cruise to spot dolphins and other marine wildlife. Visit the Giants House, a unique sculpture mosaic garden, and enjoy afternoon tea at one of the local cafes. Return to Christchurch in the evening.

  • Akaroa Day Trip: Cost varies, time spent depends on activities

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a delightful family outing, visit the Christchurch Gondola for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Add a visit to the International Children's Library, a treasure trove of books from all over the world. Don't miss the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve's Kiwi House, where you can see these iconic birds up close. Wrap up your trip with a relaxing picnic at Victoria Park, offering stunning panoramic views of the city.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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