Barnett Park (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Barnett Park?
What makes it 56% Baby-Friendly: Babies can lie on the large lawn and join a picnic, but tracks are not stroller-friendly and toilets list no change tables, so parents must improvise using the car or a blanket.
Positives:
- Easy access: Free car park and level paths near the playground and picnic area.
- On-site facilities: 24/7 toilets and drinking fountains close to the main lawn and playground.
Challenges:
- No baby-change tables: Public restrooms lack dedicated change stations; bring a portable mat.
- Limited stroller access: Tracks are steep and rocky beyond the main field; keep stroller on flat areas.
What is Barnett Park?
- A public park and sports ground on the Port Hills overseen by Christchurch City Council, featuring open turf fields, picnic areas, and a children’s playground
- A rolling hillside landscape adorned with pine stands, regenerating native shrubland, and exposed limestone formations overlooking the Heathcote Estuary
- A trailhead hub for unsealed tracks—most notably the Barnett Park Cave Loop and Eastenders Track—that connect to Summit Road and the wider Port Hills network
What is so special about Barnett Park for with baby?
- Soft grassy field perfect for baby crawling.
- Toddler-friendly playground equipment.
- Free picnic tables and gas BBQs.
- On-site toilets and drinking fountains.
- Option to reserve a shaded shelter.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for grass-play, playground fun, and a relaxing picnic without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Barnett Park
Grass-play on sports field:
Lay a blanket on the flat turf for baby to crawl or rest.
Tip: Bring a picnic mat and sunshade for comfort.
Playground time:
Use the swings, small slide, and seesaw designed for toddlers.
Tip: Supervise closely and check ground surfacing before letting baby play.
Picnic and BBQ:
Use the free gas barbecues and picnic tables near the car park.
Tip: Reserve the shaded picnic shelter in advance to secure shade and space.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Barnett Park
- Shelter reservation: Book the picnic shelter online at least a week ahead to guarantee shade.
- Park strategically: Arrive via Moncks Spur Road end to reach toilets and BBQs with minimal walking.
Reviews of Barnett Park
Matt Kennedy
Awesome hike in redcliffs with an amazing ocean view from the cave at the top. I recommend choosing a less busy time to go as it can get a bit noisy in the cave during peak hours.
Jackson Ramland
What an awesome walk with amazing views. Well worth the visit bring the camera and take it all in. Dog friendly so you get to enjoy with your family pet. Must do in chch.
MegaHagley
An awesome walk. Great to take the kids out and away from the screens. We are a bit slower, so took us about 50 minutes to get up to the cave.
Jo Dancing
Great weather today. So went for a walk. Barnett Cave Loop walk. Slightly adventurous given the wet underfoot conditions, but well worth it when you reached the top!
Craig Towers
A great walk. We headed up via the RHS. Starts gently then for the next third goes up a bit steeper. The final third flattens off. Good views going up and from the cave itself. The walk down is pretty steady on LHS (as you look from the bottom). Less rocks etc than going up on the RHS. There is a toilet block at Football club. ( needs a clean)
When is the best time to visit Barnett Park (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
In summer bring a sun hat and extra water; in winter wear windproof layers as the hilltop can be exposed.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic shelter booking fee | NZD 20 |
| Sports pavilion hire (optional) | NZD 90 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 110 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Barnett Park
Address: 200A Main Road, Redcliffs, Christchurch 8081, New Zealand
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About Barnett Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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