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New Zealand/Things to Do in Christchurch, with baby

Bottle Lake Forest Park (with baby)

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How Baby-Friendly is Bottle Lake Forest Park?

58%Baby-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 58% Baby-Friendly: Short pram-friendly fairy path and picnic zone allow a brief outing, but most surfaces are sandy, toilets have no change table, and there is no nursing room, so stays with a baby need extra planning.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 1,722 reviews)

Positives:

  • Easy access facilities: Toilets and picnic tables are next to the main car park for quick breaks.
  • Quiet forest setting: Pine forest lanes are peaceful, helping babies nap in a stroller or carrier.

Challenges:

  • Uneven track surfaces: Forest paths have sand and pine needles; strollers may struggle off-road.
  • No baby-change stations: Bring your own change mat and supplies; confirm facilities at Visitor Centre.
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🏖️ Explore Bottle Lake Forest Park with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Bottle Lake Forest Park. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Bottle Lake Forest Park?

  • A sprawling pine plantation spanning over 800 hectares of former coastal dunes on Christchurch’s northern outskirts
  • A multi‐use forest park managed by Christchurch City Council, combining production forestry with conservation of native wetland and dune ecosystems
  • An integrated network of unsealed forest roads and tracks weaving through dense pine stands, open sand plains and seasonal lake margins

What is so special about Bottle Lake Forest Park for with baby?

  1. Visitor Centre offers shade and baby-friendly rest stops
  2. Main car park picnic area with easy toilet access
  3. Short Green Track section for carrier-only forest stroll
  4. All facilities and trails are free of charge

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a short forest stroll, picnic, and rest breaks with a baby without over-tiring parents.

(View Bottle Lake Forest Park on Map)

Baby-Friendly Activities in Bottle Lake Forest Park

Visitor Centre rest stop:

Indoor shelter with maps, brochures and water tap.

Tip: Use this spot for feeding or napping; toilets are nearby.

Picnic by main car park:

Flat concrete area with tables near parking and toilets.

Tip: Bring your own snacks and a blanket for a comfortable break.

Short Green Track with baby carrier:

Part of the family-friendly 3 km loop suitable for slings.

Tip: Carry your baby in a sling; avoid this path with a stroller.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bottle Lake Forest Park

  1. Use a baby carrier: A sling lets you explore short loops on uneven tracks comfortably.
  2. Pack light snacks: Prepare portable food to enjoy at picnic tables near the car park.
🏖️ Tour Bottle Lake Forest Park like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Bottle Lake Forest Park. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Bottle Lake Forest Park

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Kaylee Schipani

Kaylee Schipani

Sep 2025

Went for a long run today and at first I was really impressed by the blue trail markers, but then they just stop being present and then you have to guess how to get to the southern pegasus bay track. Thankfully made it back right before pitch black but a little more signage would've been helpful. Not sure if I'll be back for a long run here.

Helen Anderson

Helen Anderson

Sep 2025

It was awesome here. Unfortunately the working forest has been felled so much over the past 18 months its taken huge amounts of great woodland away. Keep getting told its only 15 years until this recovers.....

Donald Sacca

Donald Sacca

May 2025

I mean, you can’t really get lost, but the trails could be marked better. The map was not necessarily helpful — even at trail intersections. I ended up just walking on the roads after a while out of frustration. I’m sure the regulars have no issues, but this was my first time here. I will have to come back and learn my way around.

Cristina Renedo Williams

Cristina Renedo Williams

May 2025

Great place for walking the dog, cycling, or for horse riding. Note that these paths do cross each other at some points. Variety of tracks to do of different lengths. It's a good idea to take a picture of the map at the entrance as it can get a bit confusing at some parts. They've re-done the parking and it's much more organised now. I do wish there would be more bins around the forest, as there i...

Joseph Lum

Joseph Lum

Dec 2024

First time visit. Was a pleasant surprising find. Walking the hiking trails and hearing the soothing sound of wind whistling through the tall trees was really therapeutic. I totally enjoyed the relaxing walk with my family :)

When is the best time to visit Bottle Lake Forest Park (Christchurch, New Zealand)?

In summer, wear a sunhat and apply insect repellent. In winter and spring, choose dry days and wear waterproof footwear as tracks can get muddy.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Christchurch on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Park entry and parkingNZD 0
Public toiletsNZD 0
Visitor centre resourcesNZD 0
Total EstimatedNZD 0

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Bottle Lake Forest Park

Address: Waitikiri Drive, Bottle Lake, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand

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About Bottle Lake Forest Park

Opening Hours

Monday:7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday:7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday:7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday:7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday:7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday:7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday:7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+64 3 941 8999

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