What makes it 87% Kids-Friendly: Kids can spot fairy houses, ride the 7 km Family Loop, and climb the tyre playground; toilets and parking are close, yet parents must monitor bikes and open water and bring their own snacks.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a bike ride, Fairy Village visit and picnic without tiring younger children.
Fairy Village Adventure:
Follow the short flat trail to hundreds of tiny fairy houses along Apple Road.
Tip: Let kids add their own fairy doors; go at dawn or dusk for soft light.
Pump Track Play:
Ride balance bikes or scooters on a small circuit of earth jumps near the car park.
Tip: Bring helmets and pads; start with the smallest rollers to build confidence.
Family Loop Mountain Bike Ride:
Cycle the 7 km mostly flat service roads marked in blue.
Tip: Use e-bikes or tag-along seats for younger riders; refill water at the Visitor Centre.
Green Track Forest Walk:
Enjoy a gentle 3 km loop under shady pines, spotting fungi and birds.
Tip: Bring binoculars for bird-watching; older kids can race ahead on the wide path.
Picnic by Visitor Centre:
Use tables and toilets next to the centre for snacks or lunch breaks.
Tip: Pack sandwiches and juice; the tap allows refilling water bottles.

Kaylee Schipani
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
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
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
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
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 :)
Summer: sunscreen and hats. Winter: waterproof boots. Spring: watch for fern fronds and blossoms.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking | NZD 0 |
| Bike rental (2 bikes, 2 hrs) | NZD 50 |
| Picnic supplies | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 70 |
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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Address: Waitikiri Drive, Bottle Lake, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand
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