Bishopdale Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Bishopdale Park?
What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: Children can enjoy the Elephant slide, flying fox, skate area and sports fields for free, with toilets and a drinking fountain close by; minimal fencing means parents must supervise actively.
Positives:
- Free Entry: All play areas, courts and lawns are free to use.
- Easy Parking: Free roadside parking on Harewood Road and Leacroft Street.
- Basic Amenities: Toilets and drinking fountain are steps from the playground.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade: Few trees around the obstacle course; bring hats and sunscreen.
- No On-Site Café: No food outlets in the park—plan to bring all snacks and water.
- Open Perimeter: Playground isn’t fully fenced; watch younger kids near sports fields.
What is Bishopdale Park?
- A city-maintained urban park in Christchurch’s Bishopdale suburb comprising open sports fields and landscaped lawns
- A community reserve anchored by the iconic fibreglass Elephant Slide playground structure and adjacent picnic shelters
- A multi-use green space incorporating a concrete skate facility, half basketball court and native plantings
What is so special about Bishopdale Park for with kids?
- Free play on the elephant slide, flying fox and obstacle course
- Picnic areas with shaded tables and drinking fountain
- Half-court basketball and concrete skate park
- Easy parking, toilets and water fountain adjacent to play zones
- November festival adds crafts, shows and free skating lessons
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This gives time for kids to explore the playground, skate park and enjoy a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Bishopdale Park
Elephant Slide:
Climb and slide on the park’s iconic fibreglass elephant structure.
Tip: Send one child down at a time and cheer them on for fun family photos.
Flying Fox & Mega-Slide:
Ride the flying fox and tackle the army-style climbing obstacle.
Tip: Have kids wear trainers with good grip and supervise at the top platform.
Picnic on the Lawns:
Use shaded picnic tables or spread a blanket on the grass.
Tip: Pack finger foods and cold drinks; refill water from the drinking fountain nearby.
Basketball & Skate Area:
Shoot hoops on the half-court or practice tricks in the skate zone.
Tip: Bring your own ball, skateboard or protective gear; helmets are required.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bishopdale Park
- Arrive Early: Get parking close to the playground before midday crowds arrive.
- Pack Light Gear: Use a small backpack for snacks, wipes and a first-aid kit.
- Rotate Activities: Switch between playground, picnic and court to keep kids engaged.
Reviews of Bishopdale Park
Mike Wilson
Great park with different play grounds for all ages. The huge slide in the hill is brilliant fun. The skate Park is well set up and had many features.
George Read
Awesome space and a great upgrade to the skatepark was awesome at the celebration bishopdale event over the weekend we always have a blast :) plenty of parking and public toilets, rubbish bins and a drink fountain make this park very handy for a family picnic area :) great playground too :)
Donna Tarnow-Mordi
What a wonderful park for all ages of kids. We used to bring our boys here when we visited family in Christchurch years ago and now our son is bringing his boys here while on holiday. A lovely big park area with great slides, swings, a few play areas & a flying fox.
Sarah Williams
Great place to have birthday parties
Ny龙（Dragon）
Awesome park for kids. Lots of different facilities for all ages and the flying fox is the best in chch. Safe - Slows down well at the end
When is the best time to visit Bishopdale Park (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Each November the free “Celebrate Bishopdale” festival adds face painting, craft stalls and a family skate jam.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Public transport return fare (2 adults, 2 kids) | NZD 10 |
| Packed picnic groceries | NZD 25 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 35 |
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 Bishopdale Park
Address: Bishopdale, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand
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About Bishopdale 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.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 3 941 899910 BEST nearby Activities
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