Originally Posted by
Familyofmonkeys
The Antarctic Centre seems to have alot of votes here...I had not even considered it so far....sounds promising
Most Christchurch folk don't really rate the Antarctic Centre. I've been once and was very disappointed - it's very expensive, but it could be worth your while if they're running a special deal or have a money off voucher. I think the section about the antarctic at the Canterbury Museum is just as interesting and all you need to get in there is a gold coin donation. It's a great place.
When I go into town with the kids, I usually park at the bottom of the Botanic Gardens where it is free to park for 3 hours (I usually go way over this and have never had a ticket but I probably shouldn't advise that). It's a lovely walk up through the Botanic Gardens and there's a kids' play area (with splash pool in summer) near where you park the car. You can walk up through the Botanics into town and the Canterbury Museum is on the left at the entrance/exit to the Bots, depending on which way you're going. Just across the road is the Arts Centre, which is always thriving at the weekend when the market is on and there are lots of food stalls (chinese/thai/vietnamese) and plenty of cafes/bars/ restaurants. The kids love running around at the market and usually end up in the Fudge Cottage!
Willowbank and Orana Park are both good wildlife parks. Also, I love the Gondola - I have a pass and go there most weeks. It's great to get up there and have a coffee and look down on the city - there is a little ride which takes you through the birth and history of Canterbury which is quite good (although tends to lose its appeal after the 99th time...) Kids love it though. You can get a combined gondola/tram 2 or 3 day ticket, I think. Sure the kids would love going on the tram. You can pick it up at the Arts Centre actually. Ferrymead Heritage Park is good too for kids, especially now that they have the Maori Village.
Lots of good beaches round Christchurch too. I love Sumner beach (but I'm biased cos I live here!) - thriving village with lots to do. Lots of other good beaches too - depends what you're looking for.
If I think of anything else, I'll let you know.
Kate