Family-Friendly 13-Day Tour Around Christchurch, New Zealand

Day 1: Explore Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on May 22, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Black Betty Cafe

Start your day at this family-friendly cafe known for its delicious breakfasts and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for all ages.
NZD30, 1h0m

10:30am

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Explore beautiful gardens featuring native plants and themed areas. Kids will enjoy the open spaces and the conservatory. Open 7am to 7:30pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Riverside Market

Enjoy a variety of fresh, family-friendly food options inside this lively indoor market near the Avon River.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

International Antarctic Centre

Learn about Antarctic exploration with interactive exhibits ideal for children, including a simulated polar storm. Open 9am to 5pm.
NZD40, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy tasty New Zealand cuisine in a relaxed environment with options suitable for children.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 2: Wildlife and Museums

Christchurch, New Zealand on May 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at C1 Espresso

Famous for its theatrical coffee and tasty breakfast, this spot offers a lively start to your day.
NZD35, 1h0m

10:00am

Orana Wildlife Park

Spend the day at New Zealand's only open-range zoo with over 400 animals; the kids will enjoy close-up encounters. Open 9am to 5pm.
NZD50, 4h0m

2:30pm

Return to city and light snack at Little High Eatery

Try a range of snacks and light meals from multiple vendors in this vibrant food court setting.
NZD30, 1h0m

4:00pm

Canterbury Museum

Explore exhibits on local history, Maori culture, and natural history. It's free and family friendly. Open 9am to 5pm.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Pioneer Kitchen

Relax in a cozy eatery with a fusion menu offering options for all family members.
NZD55, 1h30m
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Day 3: Outdoor Fun in Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Lotus-Heart Vegetarian Restaurant

Enjoy wholesome vegetarian dishes suitable for the whole family in a peaceful setting.
NZD30, 1h0m

9:30am

Christchurch Gondola

Take a scenic gondola ride up to the Port Hills with panoramic views of the city and Canterbury Plains; great for photos and short hikes. Open 9am to 5pm.
NZD37, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Dux Dine

Enjoy casual dining with hearty pizzas and burgers near the gondola base.
NZD40, 1h0m

1:30pm

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

See native New Zealand animals including kiwis, and learn about Maori culture through interactive experiences. Open 9am to 5pm.
NZD40, 3h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Inati

Experience family-friendly communal dining with fresh local ingredients and innovative dishes.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 4: Day Trip to Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs, New Zealand on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Departure from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs

Drive about 1.5 - 2 hours northwest to the famous Hanmer Springs thermal pools and alpine village.
Transport NZD100 approx., 2h0m

10:00am

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools

Relax in natural hot pools and enjoy water slides, a great family-friendly environment open 9am to 9pm.
NZD30, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Historic Hanmer Hotel

Enjoy hearty pub-style meals with options for children and great views of the alpine village.
NZD45, 1h0m

3:30pm

Village Exploration & Walking Trails

Take an easy family walk to explore the charming village and surrounding nature.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Christchurch

Drive back to Christchurch for evening rest.
Transport NZD100 approx., 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at home or hotel

Relaxed dinner at your accommodation after a full day of activities.
Varies, 1h0m
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Day 5: Transfer to Akaroa

Akaroa, New Zealand on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Christchurch

Light breakfast at your accommodation or local cafe to start your travel day.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive from Christchurch to Akaroa

Scenic 1.5-hour drive to the French-inspired harbour town of Akaroa.
Transport NZD70 approx., 1h30m

11:00am

Check in and settle

Arrive at your accommodation and unpack for a relaxed afternoon.
Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Little Bistro

Enjoy fresh seafood and child-friendly meals in a welcoming small-town restaurant.
NZD45, 1h0m

2:00pm

Akaroa Museum

Explore Akaroa’s maritime and colonial history in a small, interactive museum. Open 10am to 4pm.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Akaroa Village & Waterfront

Walk along the harbour front and browse local shops, enjoy the harbour views and playgrounds for children.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at The Brasserie

Dine on contemporary New Zealand cuisine with great harbour views and family options.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 6: Akaroa Wildlife & Cruises

Akaroa, New Zealand on May 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Little Bistro

Tasty breakfast choice close to the waterfront, serving freshly prepared dishes.
NZD30, 1h0m

10:00am

Akaroa Wildlife Cruise

Take a 2-hour wildlife harbour cruise to see Hector’s dolphins, penguins, seals, and birds. Tours typically run from 9am to 4pm.
NZD70, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Giant’s House Cafe

Enjoy lunch in a quirky garden filled with sculptures, ideal for the children’s imaginations.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Akaroa Lighthouse Walk

Take an easy family walk to the lighthouse for stunning views. Ideal for light exercise and photographs.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Akaroa Beach

Spend some leisure time on the beach enjoying the sea and local playgrounds.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ma Maison Akaroa

Treat the family to French-inspired cuisine in an intimate and warm setting.
NZD65, 1h30m
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Day 7: Travel to Arthur's Pass

Arthur's Pass, New Zealand on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Akaroa

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or nearby cafe before departure.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Akaroa to Arthur’s Pass

Scenic 3-hour drive heading west through the Canterbury region to the Southern Alps.
Transport NZD120 approx., 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Arthur's Pass Hotel

Classic fare in a cosy alpine hotel setting, perfect for families after a morning of travel.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Arthur’s Pass Visitor Centre

Get maps and information about local walks and mountain activities. Open daily 9am to 5pm.
Free, 30m

2:30pm

Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Walk

A moderate 1.5-hour return walk to a spectacular waterfall, suitable for the whole family.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Wobbly Kea Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with comfort food and child-friendly meals in the heart of Arthur’s Pass.
NZD50, 1h30m
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Day 8: Explore Arthur's Pass

Arthur's Pass, New Zealand on May 29, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Wobbly Kea Cafe

Start your day with delicious breakfasts, including gluten-free and kid-friendly options.
NZD30, 1h0m

10:00am

Cave Stream Scenic Reserve

Explore a unique cave walk adventure of about 3 hours total duration; children aged 9+ will enjoy this safe and exciting activity. Check weather conditions before heading out.
Free, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch Picnic at Cave Stream Reserve

Pack or purchase takeaway picnic food to enjoy in the scenic reserve.
NZD30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Bealey Spur Track (short walk)

A shorter family-friendly walk with views of the surrounding mountains and native bush. Duration around 1.5 hours.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Bealey Hotel

Comfortable dining with hearty meals, providing a relaxed atmosphere for families after a day of hiking.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 9: Travel to Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Arthur's Pass

Quick and hearty breakfast at your accommodation or local cafe.
NZD25, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Scenic 3-hour drive south through the Canterbury region to the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo.
Transport NZD100 approx., 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Tekapo Village Bakery

Enjoy fresh bakery treats and hearty meals in a casual family setting.
NZD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

Church of the Good Shepherd and Lakeside Walk

Visit the iconic church and enjoy an easy lakeside stroll with spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Tekapo Springs

Relax in hot pools and enjoy the family-friendly water slides, open 10am to 9pm.
NZD35, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Reflections Restaurant & Bar

A lovely spot offering local produce-based dishes catering to families.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 10: Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook, New Zealand on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Tekapo

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast before travelling to the mountains.
NZD30, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook Village

Approximate 1-hour scenic drive through mountainous terrain.
Transport NZD50 approx., 1h0m

10:00am

Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Explore the museum and planetarium with educational displays on Mount Cook and New Zealand’s alpine environment.
NZD25, 1h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Old Mountaineers' Cafe, Bar & Restaurant

A mountain themed cafe serving wholesome meals suitable for families.
NZD45, 1h0m

1:00pm

Hooker Valley Track Walk

An easy 3-hour return walk with stunning views of glaciers and Mount Cook, perfect for families with children aged 9 and above.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Hermitage Hotel

Dine at the hotel’s family-friendly restaurant offering spectacular views and varied menu.
NZD70, 1h30m
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Day 11: Mount Cook Exploration

Mount Cook, New Zealand on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy breakfast with mountain views to prepare for an active day.
Included in accommodation, 1h0m

9:30am

Tasman Glacier View

Drive or shuttle to viewing points for the Tasman Glacier and icebergs. Option for a boat tour on the glacier lake (check age restrictions).
Boat tour NZD110 per adult, children rates apply, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mount Cook Village

Casual meal at a cafe or picnic in the village.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Kea Point Track

Short 1.5-hour return walk with lovely views, great for families looking for a leisurely hike.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Mount Cook Village

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your accommodation or nearby restaurant.
NZD60, 1h30m
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Day 12: Return to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast Mount Cook

Enjoy your last mountain breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive back to Christchurch

Approximately 4-hour drive back along scenic highways.
Transport NZD120 approx., 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at C1 Espresso, Christchurch

Revisit this fun spot for a lively lunch to energise the family.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Margaret Mahy Playground

Spend the afternoon at this huge, award-winning playground, perfect for children of all ages.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at King of Snake

Enjoy Asian fusion dishes with flavours kids can enjoy in a relaxed setting.
NZD55, 1h30m
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Day 13: Final Christchurch Day

Christchurch, New Zealand on June 3, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Black & White Coffee

A great spot for speciality coffee and pastries to start your last day.
NZD25, 1h0m

10:00am

Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial & Quake City

Reflect on Christchurch’s resilience at the memorial and interactive museum. Open 10am to 4pm.
NZD20 per adult, children free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at New Regent Street

Enjoy lunch in this colourful, historic street offering varied cafes with kid-friendly menus.
NZD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tram Ride Around Christchurch

Take a fun and educational heritage tram ride through the city centre. Open daily until sunset.
NZD25 adults, NZD10 children, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax in your accommodation or local park

Enjoy downtime with the family before departure preparations.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Little High Eatery

Choose from multiple food vendors catering to all tastes for a relaxed, casual last dinner.
NZD60, 1h30m
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