Christchurch with Kids on a Rainy Day
Ah, the sweet symphony of raindrops – nature’s way of saying, “Guess what? Outdoor plans are cancelled!”
Christchurch is known for its unpredictable weather, but that doesn’t mean the kids have to be confined to your lounge when the rain sets in. Here’s an SOS collection of the best spots in Christchurch for a rainy day! Some are better suited to certain ages, so I’ve included plenty of options to choose from. Grab your raincoat, your gumboots, and let’s dive into how to make the most of a grey day with the kids.
1. Adventures at Tūranga Library, Christchurch CBD
Dive into Tūranga, our incredible central city library, for a literary adventure in a colourful indoor playland. Explore the huge collection of kids’ books and let your little engineers loose in the Lego and Duplo pits. There’s plenty of space to move, and fun kids’ activities dotted throughout the first floor. Older ones might enjoy the top-floor balcony where you can overlook the cathedral rebuild.
Hot tip: The café downstairs is fantastic and full of wallet-friendly cabinet treats (I highly recommend the cheese scone and berry smoothie).
2. Cosy Kid-Friendly Cafés for a Fluffy or Hot Chocolate
Seek refuge from the rain in one of Christchurch’s many cosy cafés. Hop on the ROAM with Kids app to find a spot near you with kid-friendly corners or activities, then treat yourself to a hot drink while they colour, play or munch.
Faves: The Welder (CBD), Dune (South Brighton), Crisp (Edgeware), and Lil Brew (Redcliffs).
3. Brave the Rain with a Garden Stroll
As long as it’s not a storm, remember — a little rain never hurt anyone! Rain adds a magical touch to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Throw on those raincoats and gumboots, and let the kids splash around while you pretend it's a whimsical film. Need a warm-up? Pop into Ilex Café for hot chocolates and chippies.
4. Let Them Loose at a Trampoline Park
Let the kids bounce off the walls — literally, and not in your lounge. Indoor spots like MoveX, Launch Pad, and Ninja Valley are the ultimate energy-burners. Think giant trampolines, foam pits, ninja courses, and toddler-safe soft play zones that absorb more chaos than your house ever could.
Got a tiny one? Chipmunks is also a great call.
5. Mitre 10 or Bunnings Escapades
A classic Kiwi chore-turned-adventure. Most Mitre 10 MEGA and Bunnings stores have a fenced indoor playground, a café, a covered plant section, and aisles of toddler-friendly exploring. Some even have mini trolleys! You might leave with lightbulbs and batteries — or just a coffee and a plank of wood with locks for your toddler to tinker with.
6. Explore the Air Force Museum of New Zealand
Strap in for take-off — no boarding pass required (or funds, it’s free!). The Air Force Museum in Wigram is full of interactive exhibits, massive aircraft to explore, and just enough history to make you feel like a great parent while your child climbs into cockpits pretending to fly. Win-win.
7. Wander the Christchurch Art Gallery + Pop-Up Museum
I know what you’re thinking — an art gallery with kids? But hear me out. They’ve got exhibits that are weird enough to entertain them, plus a front-lobby creative space with magnetic puzzles and hands-on bits.
Next, stroll to the temporary Canterbury Museum, where kids can jump on a snowmobile, eyeball a stuffed leopard, and wave awkwardly at a polar bear. It’s strange, it’s free, and it absolutely counts as educational.
8. Ride the Christchurch Tram
Not just for tourists! Hop on the Christchurch Tram and cruise through the city in vintage style. It’s fun, dry, and slightly magical — especially if your kids love vehicles or history.
Hot Tip: Park at The Crossing for $4.50 for 2 hours — right by one of the tram stops.
9. See a Movie
Nothing beats the classic rainy-day cinema trip. You get a seat, they get a screen, everyone gets snacks. Check out a family-friendly flick at Hoyts EntX (IMAX magic!) or one of the many suburban cinemas.
10. Arcade Madness
Bright lights, retro games, mini bowling, milkshakes — Archie Brothers in the city is a neon dream. Or try Game Over in Riccarton (go-karts too!) or TimeZone behind Riverside Market for games and a nearby lunch option.
11. Pools Without the Resort Price Tag
Christchurch’s indoor pools are genuinely impressive. Try Jellie Park, QEII, or Linwood for waterslides, toddler zones and modern facilities. Bonus: during school hours, one adult and up to two preschoolers swim free at council pools.
Want something more bougie? Head to He Puna Taimoana (New Brighton Hot Pools) for a proper parent recharge.
12. Visit Antarctica (Kind Of)
The International Antarctic Centre brings the icy fun without the frostbite. Think snowstorm rooms, ride-on Hagglunds, penguin encounters, and science exhibits that entertain and educate.
13. McDonald’s Indoor Playgrounds
The humble Macca’s playland still does the trick. Head to spots like Riccarton (outside the mall) for a dry play break with bonus hash browns, fluffies, and McMuffins.
Know another great one? Let me know in the comments!
14. Get Your Game On at Laser Strike
Like paintball but without the bruises. Laser Strike is perfect for older kids (and competitive parents) needing to burn energy indoors. Plus, it counts as exercise. Sort of.
Have I missed any rainy-day favourites? Let me know!
And if all else fails... put on gumboots, grab an umbrella, and call it a "mud mission." Kids will love it.
