There’s a lot going on in this reserve with a skatepark, dirt cycle track, a playground and mini splashpad. The splashpad makes for good cooling off on a hot day but it is quite small. It’s right next to the playground, so be prepared with togs if you’ve got kids…
While the local council are planning upgrades for this park, it is already popular among local families for the wide range of activities available here. There’s lots of open space for running around, ball games etc. Bring your skates or scooter to practise at the skating rink, bring togs and splash…
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…
Dating back to the late 1800s, this outdoor pool opens in October to the end of March each year, and has all the benefits of the sea, (while there is still chlorine in the water, it’s weaker than the average pool, as it’s mixed in with salt water) but is warmer…
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…
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…
Whether you’re staying in the area or just passing through Nelson Lakes, this short boat trip and walk has been highly recommended as a way of exploring Lake Rotoiti, the biggest lake in the area. Although steep, the track to Whiskey Falls should be doable for ages 3 and up –…
This cafe has an animal park attached to it (see ‘price’) so it’s a good place to stop and stretch the legs if you’re travelling along SH6 with animal lovers in the car! Pick up some animal feed at the barn ($2 per bag) and visit the donkeys, sheep, goats…
This is a giant board game with a difference – this playground is a giant game of snakes and ladders where the kids are the moving counters, there are ladders for moving up and slides to represent snakes. Also at this playground are swings, picnic tables, grassy areas with trees…
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…
