7-Day Family Adventure in Christchurch: Exploring Nature, Culture, and History

Day 1: Arrival & City Tour

Christchurch, New Zealand on August 2, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Little High Eatery

Start your trip with breakfast at this lively food courtyard offering diverse options to please everyone in the family.
NZD20 per person, 1h30m

11:00am

Christchurch Art Gallery

Explore contemporary and traditional art collections in this beautifully designed gallery, which is engaging for both adults and kids.
Free entry, 2h

1:15pm

Lunch at Riverside Market

Enjoy a casual lunch with various food stalls offering fresh and local cuisine, perfect for all tastes.
NZD15-25 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Canterbury Museum

Discover local history, Maori culture, and exciting natural history exhibits suitable for children and adults alike.
Free entry, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar

Dine in a family-friendly atmosphere serving delicious New Zealand cuisine with vegetarian options.
NZD35 per person, 1h30m

Day 2: Gardens & Heritage

Christchurch, New Zealand on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Start your day with quirky coffee and innovative breakfast dishes in a fun environment everyone will enjoy.
NZD20 per person, 1h

9:30am

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Explore stunning gardens with diverse plant collections and the beautiful Avon River – a great spot for relaxing and family photos.
Free entry, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Tannery

Have lunch at this charming historic shopping and dining precinct with a variety of casual eateries.
NZD20-30 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Canterbury Pioneer Village

Step back into history with this open-air museum featuring historic buildings and reenactments, perfect for family exploration.
NZD20 per adult, children free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Inati

Enjoy a unique dining experience with NZ contemporary dishes served family-style in an intimate setting (book ahead).
NZD50 per person, 2h

Day 3: Museums & Fun

Christchurch, New Zealand on August 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Classic Café

Enjoy hearty breakfast dishes to fuel your day with the family in a cosy café setting.
NZD18 per person, 1h

9:30am

Air Force Museum of New Zealand

Explore aviation history with exciting exhibits and aircraft displays, a hit especially with kids interested in planes.
Free entry, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Artesian

Casual pub-style lunch serving local favourites with options for children.
NZD20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Purchase your Skating Tickets at Alpine Ice Christchurch

Enjoy family-friendly ice skating sessions suitable for all skill levels; skate rentals included.
NZD15 per person, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar

Relax with another delicious meal in a family-friendly environment offering a variety of dishes.
NZD35 per person, 1h30m

Day 4: Adventure & Views

Christchurch, New Zealand on August 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Blue Elephant Eatery

Enjoy wholesome, fresh breakfast options perfect for starting your adventure day.
NZD18 per person, 1h

9:30am

Christchurch Gondola

Take a scenic gondola ride offering panoramic views of the city and Southern Alps, thrilling for all ages.
NZD36 adults, NZD15 children, 1h

11:00am

Visit the Christchurch Adventure Park

Try ziplining and mountain biking in a safe and beautiful setting, lots of fun for the whole family.
From NZD35 per adult, discounts for children, 3h

3:00pm

Lunch at the Park Café

Casual meals provided on site to keep everyone energised without leaving the adventure park area.
NZD15-25 per person, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dux Central

Delight in classic New Zealand pub meals with a wide variety of options, great for families.
NZD30 per person, 1h30m

Day 5: Akaroa Day Trip

Akaroa, New Zealand on August 6, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Pack a quick and nutritious breakfast to prepare for a full day out on the Banks Peninsula.
NZD15 per person, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Akaroa (1.5 hours from Christchurch)

Travel scenic roads to the charming French-influenced town of Akaroa, perfect for a day of exploration.
Fuel cost approx NZD50, 1h30m

10:00am

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise

Take a boat cruise to see dolphins, seals, and stunning harbour scenery with an informative guide.
NZD65 per adult, NZD35 per child, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Little Bistro

Enjoy delicious fresh seafood and local cuisines in a cosy setting.
NZD25-35 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Akaroa Village

Stroll through quaint streets, visit boutiques, and enjoy the harbour views for a relaxed afternoon.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Christchurch

Drive back to your Christchurch accommodation after a full day of activities.
Fuel cost approx NZD50, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at hotel or local restaurant

Opt for a relaxed dinner at your accommodation or nearby restaurant to unwind.
NZD25-40 per person, 1h30m

Day 6: Wildlife & Markets

Christchurch, New Zealand on August 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Black Betty Café

Enjoy excellent coffee and breakfast dishes in a welcoming family-friendly café environment.
NZD20 per person, 1h

9:30am

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Meet native New Zealand animals like kiwis, tuataras, and more in this interactive wildlife reserve.
NZD25 adults, NZD14 children, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Willowbank Café

Simple and tasty meals available onsite to keep the family refreshed.
NZD15-20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Christchurch Riverside Market

Shop for local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs at this lively market.
Free entry, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Savage & Cooke

Dine at one of Christchurch’s best-known gastro pubs offering locally inspired dishes.
NZD40 per person, 1h30m

Day 7: Shopping & Departure

Christchurch, New Zealand on August 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Coffee Culture New Brighton

Enjoy a relaxed beachside breakfast with great coffee and breakfast classics to start your final day.
NZD18 per person, 1h

10:00am

Shopping at The Tannery

Pick up any last-minute gifts or souvenirs from boutique shops and artisan producers in this heritage setting.
Free entry, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Black Betty Café

Enjoy a final delicious meal with some local favourites before heading to the airport.
NZD20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Return to accommodation and pack

Prepare for departure and ensure all belongings are organised for your journey home.
Free, 1h