The Best Fenced Playgrounds in Christchurch

The Best Fenced Playgrounds in Christchurch

By Kate @christchurchwithkids on Instagram

If your toddler has a black belt in running off at top speed, fenced playgrounds are a lifesaver. There’s something magical about being able to sip your coffee or check emails on your phone without constantly scanning for escape routes. Whether you’ve got a fearless climber, a curious explorer, or just a very speedy child, Christchurch has plenty of playgrounds where you can relax (a little) while they burn off energy. Here’s a roundup of fenced (or almost fenced) playgrounds to make your next outing a bit less stressful!

St Albans Park

This one is the Fort Knox of playgrounds — fully fenced with high gates and latches that little hands can’t reach. The playground is perfect for littlies, with a train-themed play structure and plenty of seating for tired parents. If you’ve got bigger kids, there’s a second (unfenced) playground right next door with more adventurous equipment. And if you need a caffeine hit, Ristretto Café is just across the park and even has a mini playpen inside.

Cashmere Playground

Located right on a main road, this playground is fully fenced, making it a safe option despite the traffic. While the playground and fence are a little older, there’s still plenty of fun to be had - including a giant tunnel slide and lots of space to run around. And the best bit? Fuse Ice Cream Cart is right across the street, serving up real fruit ice cream (and honestly, you deserve one after wrangling small humans).

Barrington Park Playground

This playground is huge and quite modern, with equipment for all ages. It’s partially fenced - the sides are enclosed, but it opens up to the larger park, so you’ll need to be a bit on alert. The playground is right next to Barrington Mall, making it a great pre- or post-shopping stop.

Te Papa Kura Redcliffs Playground

This playground has serious schoolyard nostalgia - it used to be Redcliffs Primary School, but when the buildings were demolished, the playground stayed and it was transformed into a park by the council. It’s surrounded by fencing, making it safe and secure, and the equipment is awesome. It’s a great spot for a coastal playdate, and the fencing gives you peace of mind while the kids explore.

Fern Drive Reserve, Halswell

For those determined little wanderers, Fern Drive Reserve has a decently high metal fence that makes it much harder for kids to pull a Houdini. It’s a quiet, local playground, great for low-key afternoons when you just need to get out of the house.

Charleston Reserve, Waltham

While the fence is lower and wooden, it’s enough to contain smaller toddlers who love a good escape attempt. It’s a simple, relaxed playground, great for when you want to let them play without too much worry.

Woodham Park, Linwood

Okay, this one isn’t technically fenced, BUT it’s almost fully enclosed by bushes and houses, with long pathways as the only entry points. Basically, you’ll see them bolt long before they can actually get out. It’s a super cute park with a playground, paddling pool, and even bird aviaries - perfect for a low-key nature play session.

Mitre 10 MEGA & Bunnings (Various Locations)

I mean... giant, fenced, indoor playgrounds right next to a café? Yes, please. These playgrounds are fully enclosed, weatherproof, and conveniently placed right by the coffee counter, so you can sit and relax while the kids go wild. Pretend you need light bulbs just to justify the trip.

Did I miss any favourites? Let me know, and I’ll add them to the list!