After suffering from severe impacts of earthquake in recent times, Christchurch has rejuvenated itself remarkably since then, and has rebranded itself as a contemporary metropolis, giving itself a unique character. From the alps to the ocean, this is certainly one of the best escapes to discover a variety of New Zealand scenery. With plenty to see and do with your family, Christchurch will leave you spoilt for choice. For a comfortable and affordable ride to some of the top family-friendly spots in the city, make sure to use cheap bus charter in Christchurch.
Adrenaline Forest Christchurch
The popular Adrenaline Forest will get your heart pumping with flying fox attraction, zip line and fun-filled high wire, amid a forest setting. This family attraction blends an eclectic mix of fun, fear and freedom into a single package. Hardly a 20-minute drive from the CBD, the park features around 6 courses suited for all difficulty levels. It only gets harder when you go higher, but the sense of achievement you get is priceless. Kids aged 10 or above are welcome to participate in over 100 individual challenges, in surroundings of tall pine trees away from the hurly burly of the city. A guide is there to help you out in sorting the best ways to climb and move.
Orana Wildlife Park
Known to be one of the best animal-focused attractions in the country, the Orana Wildlife Park offers a range of animal encounters with intimate experience of wildlife. Spanning across an area of 80 hectare, the park offers immense space for native habitat to survive. Unlike other zoos, here you can interact with the animals like rhino or lion.
Expect to see animals from Americas, Asia, Australia and Africa including the likes of llamas, emus, kangaroos, zebras and giraffes. Numerous shows are held throughout the day to enhance your family experience. There are different sub-sections including a walkthrough aviary brimming with bird life, and also the farm yard, where kids can get close with lambs, calves and pigs. The park is located only 15 minutes’ drive from the city and is easily accessible.
Punting on the Avon River
One of the most iconic sights in the Christchurch region, The Avon River is where you go for a punting trip down the serene waters. On-board a classic style-punt boat accompanied by an expert pilot, and head on the leisure cruise past the key highlights of the city. Some of the key landmarks that you will encounter on the way include the scenic Botanic Gardens, the changing face of city centre, the drooping branches of willow trees and the charming Town Hall.
As you take a glimpse of wildlife on the river banks and meander calmly under ornate bridges, the punter will give you a detailed commentary of the surrounding areas. Each corner of the bank is photogenic, bringing a new idyllic scene that is ideal for photography.
Christchurch Gondola
To soak up some incredibly panoramic views of the city, Christchurch Gondola or the cable cars is your best bet. It certainly provides the best possible vantage point of the impressive Southern Alps, the shining harbour of Lyttleton, the Port Hills and the cityscape. Once you are up there, you can visit attractions such as Red Rock Café for a refreshing beverage, or a short ride on the Time tunnel travelling to the past history of the area.
Once you are at the summit, there are plenty of trails and tracks to walk and explore, allowing you to get an additional array of outlooks. Family-friendly facilities are provided in the visitor’s centre at the top, while also offering a historical perspective on the city and its development.
The Court Theatre
An iconic place that has long been the staple of the city’s entertainment scene, the Court Theatre in the suburb of Addington witnesses some quality performances conducted at the venue. Extending the full scale of stage-based entertainment, the theatre puts on shows ranging from contemporary to classical and kids to comedy. A talented and passionate cast of actors perform in accordance with a typical appeal to all tastes and types.
The warehouse setting provides enough seating space, with unobscured views of the stage irrespective of the fact, where you are sitting. Sound travels well throughout the space, as it is an important part of live entertainment. From Grease to Shakespeare, the Theatre promotes local talent showcasing cultural scenes. After the show, you can have a family snack at one of the cafes or restaurants outside.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Known as the Garden City, there is no better place that can reflect its image as the beautiful Botanic Gardens. It has a huge collection of exotic and native plants, offering a diverse array of ponds, trees and much more. Set amongst a variety of interlocking parks, it’s a great venue to relax in the lap of nature with your loved ones. It is meticulously looked after, and well maintained with elegant colour contrasts, even after the effects of earthquake.
The key highlight of this place is the Rose Garden, which is in full bloom with lovely aromas, especially during the spring season. Passing through the central part of the garden is the Avon River, adding natural charm to it. Garden tours are available for general public, and there’s also a caterpillar car which can take you through the gardens, which is absolutely free to access.
The Coastal Pacific Scenic Railway
Combining travel with breathtaking views, the Coastal Pacific Scenic Railway is the best family trip you can have in Christchurch. Travel past the sea and mountains, touching the South Island destinations, as you witness the untamed and rugged coastal regions of New Zealand in vibrant colours. The train runs from Christchurch to Picton, and you can plan the whole itinerary for a day to explore the region in its entirety.
The key highlight of the train is the open-air carriage, making it an ideal spot to soak up fantastic views of the Kaikora Mountain ranges, rocky coast and the rolling farmland. Significant external highlights are pointed out by the regular announcements made by the train operators. Get yourself here to experience the journey in its entire magnificence!