What to do .......

[JennyV]

Oh and I haven't been to the central library on Tuam St, but the one on Peterborough St is our local and it has computers for just kids to use plus quite a good selection of books and an area for them to read (just make sure you chuck the backpackers out of the kid's seats - they go in the library as it's free wifi!).
And the sun is never far away here - we hadn't had range for ages before this week. Bad weather never hangs around for long here (unlike in the UK!)

[Our_Carl]

Unfortunately we're living out of a suitcase so no wellies here

First rule of your kids becoming Kiwi kids, ditch ANY footwear, including wellies

[tigerlily]

My favorite cheap activities with kids (but I don't know what is available in Christchurch these days):
library
swimming pool
beach
walking track (look on regional council and Department of Conservation websites for nearby suggestions)
playgrounds (on the weekend it's fine to go to a school's playground)
train rides
going to a cafe for hot cocoa
exploring (it's new for everyone!)
U-pick berries or apples
Cooking together (even if it's just assembling sandwiches)


We rented a car on weekends before we bought one so the exploring could go further. But we also took buses rather long distances to learn about our area. If I lived in the Christchurch area, I think Akaroa would be a top family explore for us, we have stayed out there before and loved it (also had U-pick peaches on the way).