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New Zealand/Things to Do in Christchurch, with kids

Bottle Lake Forest Park (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Bottle Lake Forest Park?

87%Kids-Friendly
View Map

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.

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

Positives:

  • Shade and Shelter: Tall pine trees keep paths cool on sunny days.
  • Free Facilities: Parking, toilets and Visitor Centre access are all free.
  • Wide, Safe Paths: Flat service roads offer secure routes for bikes and scooters.

Challenges:

  • Sandy and Uneven Surfaces: Tracks have loose sand that can tire little legs and stall bikes.
  • No On-site Cafe: Bring all food and drinks; the Visitor Centre has water taps only.
  • Limited Shelter in Rain: Paths have little cover; pack raincoats if showers are forecast.
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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 kids?

  1. Trace fairy doors on a short, flat loop perfect for young imaginations.
  2. Pedal easy family-grade bike trails on firm sandy roads.
  3. Enjoy a shaded forest walk with bird and fungi spotting stops.
  4. Settle in for a picnic with free tables and water taps by the Visitor Centre.
  5. Let kids play on the pump track near the main car park.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

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.

(View Bottle Lake Forest Park on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Bottle Lake Forest Park

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.

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

  1. Arrive Early: Get a good parking spot and quieter trails by coming before 10 AM.
  2. Pack a Layered Lunch: Use ice packs to keep food fresh in summer.
  3. Combine Bike and Walk: Alternate cycling and walking to keep kids engaged without overexertion.
🏖️ 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)?

Summer: sunscreen and hats. Winter: waterproof boots. Spring: watch for fern fronds and blossoms.

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

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
ParkingNZD 0
Bike rental (2 bikes, 2 hrs)NZD 50
Picnic suppliesNZD 20
Total EstimatedNZD 70

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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