Activity Category: Canterbury

The Gelato Lab, Christchurch

People come from far and wide to enjoy the gelato at this place because, some would argue, it’s about the best in the city! There are classic flavours like chocolate and vanilla but lots of interesting flavours to challenge the taste buds as well, like pistachio or caramelised fig. The…

Sign of the Pack Horse Tramp, Banks Penninsular

This is a great first overnight tramp for kids as it’s short (roughly 4km oneway), with a comfortable, cosy cottage at the end. The Sign of the Packhorse Hut sleeps 9 people, so grab some like minded friends, book the whole place and show your kids the joy of overnight…

Little Vintage Espresso, Amberley

Owned and run by parents, this cafe is very tolerant of younger diners! There’s a basket of toys and highchairs for those that need them. Food wise, there’s a cabinet of well priced savoury and sweet treats and a menu including breakfast and lunch items. This also includes a kids’…

Animal Park, Hanmer Springs

With a good range of animals, set in 2 acres of grounds, this animal park has been noted for its cleanliness! Those that want to can get up close to lots of different farm animals and pets, such as rabbits, lambs, chickens and pigs. There’s also a new wallaby enclosure including…

Playground in the centre of Hanmer Springs

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This playground in the centre of Hanmer Springs, has equipment that suits younger kids (preschoolers?) including swings, a little slide, tunnel and naughts and crosses. Shade sails cover the equipment. There’s also a small creek to fish around in and a duck pond with a track running round it that’s suitable…

Playground in the Domain, Hanmer Springs

There are 2 playgrounds in Hanmer and this one, slightly out of the central area (although still within walking distance), is suitable for kids of all ages with equipment for younger kids, as well as a rope swing and climbing wall that are fine for older kids. Adult gym equipment is dotted…

Centennial Park (Scenic Reserve), Timaru

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This is a great place to come for a day out from Timaru and the surrounding South Canterbury area. There used to be a quarry here but tracks through it are well maintained. Whether you’re wanting a gentle family stroll, or to take the kids mountain biking, this park has something…

Verde Cafe and Deli, Geraldine

This cafe is set within lovely gardens, giving kids who struggle to sit down for long periods, somewhere to go without being in the way of serving staff. There are swings and some other playground equipment in the gardens that are suitable for younger kids and a bit of space for running…

The Aigantighe Art Gallery, Timaru

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This art gallery is worth checking out, especially if the weather means you want to be inside. The artwork displayed is a mixture of pieces by local, national and international artists. Some of the displays are temporary exhibitions, so it’s worth visiting even if you’ve been before. For kids there’s a children’s…

Stables Cafe, near Timaru

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About 5km south of Timaru town centre, this cafe feels like it’s set well into the countryside, yet it’s only a few metres off the main SH1 to warrant a small detour if you’re passing through. Serving breakfast, lunch and tasty treats the food comes well reviewed but there’s also a…