A Place To Play

For some of us, nothing screams ‘play’ better than getting the blood pumping with a bucketload of adrenalin! If that sounds like you, head to Christchurch Adventure Park – the home of New Zealand’s longest and highest zipline. Take the chairlift to the top and get back to home base using four epic ziplines. The longest is over 1 kilometre long and ends at the park’s café. If the zipline isn't your speed, you can also take it easy on the walking tracks or opt for a mountain bike adventure.

An unmissable Christchurch experience, the Christchurch Gondola offers stunning 360-degree views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour and beyond. Find some peace and quiet at the top as you soak in the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Explore the many walking tracks amid fresh mountain air or sit back and relax with a refreshment from the Red Rock Cafe and take in the spectacular views.

Christchurch is connected to nature everywhere you turn so it’s never hard to steal some time outdoors, whether that's a few hours or 15 minutes. A short walk from the Cashel Street shops is the city’s much loved Botanic Gardens. Depending on the season you will find an array of colourful flowers, from spring daffodils to summer roses, golden autumn leaves to cosy conservatories in winter. Let the picturesque Ōtākaro Avon River lead the way as it winds through the city to the floral sanctuary. And of course it connects with Hagley Park where you will always find people jogging, cycling, playing golf, touch rugby, cricket and netball. It's a park where play truly brings people together!

For the foodies out there, a perfect day always includes wining and dining and in Christchurch, you are spoilt for choice. For a vibrant, playful energy head straight to Riverside Market. A favourite local spot with options for all tastes and temptations. If you are with a group, the mix of cuisines and vendors means everyone can choose their own selection. Little High Eatery is another great option where you will find a similar casual dining experience. Fancy a more formal affair? Choose one of the many restaurants or bars along The Terrace. It's always a great option, especially when the sun is shining and you can secure a table outside at one of the eateries!

If your idea of a good time is a little peace and quiet, then a sunrise soak at He Puna Taimoana has to be on the cards. Located in New Brighton, the hot pools offer stunning ocean views that enhance the peaceful environment. Sunrise Soak is a 2-hour session and includes unrestricted views of the sunrise, a fluffy robe to wear and a complimentary mocktail. There is also an optional guided meditation for those who want to maximise the tranquillity. Once you are feeling pampered and refreshed, grab a bite to eat and a coffee at the delicious onsite café Saturdays. Is there a better start to any day ever?

Did you know Christchurch is one of the world’s five Antarctic gateways cities? And you can experience the wonder of the icy continent right here in the city! The International Antarctic Centre transports a slice of this astounding continent to Christchurch, with a range of immersive experiences that allow everyday visitors to see, touch, feel and fall in love with Antarctica. Brave an Antarctic storm, go off-road in a Hägglund, befriend a husky and mingle with penguins.