7 day itinerary
Christchurch
Personalized with:Make it family friendly
Itinerary
Christchurch is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of activities that cater to all ages. Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City
Morning:
- Arrive in Christchurch and check into your family-friendly accommodation. There are plenty of options, from hotels to cozy Airbnb rentals.
- Head to the . The kids will love running around, and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll among the beautiful flowers and trees.
Afternoon:
- Grab lunch at the . They have a lovely outdoor seating area.
- After lunch, take a ride on the . It’s a fun way to see the city, and the kids will enjoy the vintage feel!
Evening:
- Have dinner at on Victoria Street, where you can find a variety of family-friendly restaurants. Try for a relaxed atmosphere and great food.
Day 2: Adventure at the
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to the . It’s an interactive experience that’s both educational and fun! The kids will love the snow and ice experience.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy lunch at the centre’s café, then let the kids explore the Little Blue Penguin exhibit.
- In the afternoon, visit . It’s New Zealand’s only open-range zoo, and you can get up close with some amazing animals!
Evening:
- Return to the city for dinner. Try , a shopping and dining precinct with various options, including for a casual meal.
Day 3: Day Trip to
Morning:
- Take a scenic drive to , a charming French-inspired town about 1.5 hours from Christchurch. The drive itself is beautiful, so enjoy the views!
Afternoon:
- Once in , have lunch at a local café. is a great choice.
- After lunch, go on a dolphin-watching cruise. The kids will be thrilled to see the playful Hector’s dolphins!
Evening:
- Head back to Christchurch and have a relaxed dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant.
Day 4: Science and Discovery
Morning:
- Visit the . It’s free and has fascinating exhibits, including a great section on natural history that kids usually love.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at the museum café, then head to the . It’s a hands-on science experience that’s perfect for kids.
- Spend the afternoon at . It’s one of the largest playgrounds in the Southern Hemisphere, and the kids will have a blast!
Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at , a unique shopping and dining precinct with various family-friendly options.
Day 5: Nature and Wildlife
Morning:
- Take a trip to . It’s a great place to see native New Zealand wildlife, including kiwis!
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at the reserve’s café, then explore the Gondola at Port Hills. The views are stunning, and there’s a café at the top where you can enjoy a snack.
Evening:
- Return to Christchurch for dinner. Consider , which has a lovely outdoor area and a great menu.
Day 6: Beach Day at Sumner
Morning:
- Head to for a relaxing day by the sea. Pack a picnic or grab some fish and chips from a local shop.
Afternoon:
- Spend the day building sandcastles, swimming, or exploring the nearby . If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try some kayaking!
Evening:
- Have dinner at . It’s a great spot with a relaxed vibe and delicious food.
Day 7: Culture and Farewell
Morning:
- Visit the Quake City exhibition to learn about the 2011 earthquake and how the city has rebuilt itself. It’s educational and engaging for older kids.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a farewell lunch at , a lovely hotel with a great restaurant.
- If time allows, take a stroll through the , a unique shopping area made from shipping containers, perfect for picking up some last-minute souvenirs.
Evening:
- Head back to your accommodation to pack up and prepare for your departure. If you have time, enjoy a final dinner at a local favorite, .
And there you have it! A week filled with adventure, learning, and family fun in Christchurch. Enjoy your trip, and make lots of wonderful memories! 🌟