Canterbury Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Canterbury Museum?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy Christchurch Street model, moa skeletons and free scavenger trails, but the former hands-on Discovery gallery is shut, so interactive play is limited and some may tire sooner.
Positives:
- Free entry: Admission is free for all ages, so you can stay as long as kids enjoy it.
- Stroller friendly: Wide aisles and level floors let you move easily with a pram.
Challenges:
- Crowds at peak times: The pop-up galleries can feel busy between 11 am and 2 pm.
- Limited hands-on exhibits: The main Discovery zone is closed for redevelopment, so fewer interactive options are available.
What is Canterbury Museum?
- A central Christchurch museum devoted to the natural and cultural heritage of the Canterbury region
- Housing extensive collections of Māori and Pacific artefacts alongside Antarctic exploration and regional wildlife specimens
- Set within an Italianate stone edifice dating from the late 19th century, enhanced by contemporary gallery spaces
What is so special about Canterbury Museum for with kids?
- Free admission and central location make it easy to include in your day.
- Interactive exhibits and trails engage kids ages 3–12.
- Maori carvings and Antarctic relics spark imagination.
- Time Detectives Trail adds a fun scavenger hunt.
- Wide aisles and level floors keep strollers moving smoothly.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit lasting 2–3 hours lets a family explore major galleries and interactive displays at a comfortable pace for kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Canterbury Museum
Maori Artifacts Gallery:
View carved wood panels and tribal art from the local Māori community.
Tip: Let kids try spotting hidden animals in the carvings and ask a guide about carving tools.
Antarctic Gallery:
See Captain Scott relics, giant moa specimens and life-size emperor penguin sculptures.
Tip: Encourage children to compare their height to the penguins and imagine Antarctic explorers.
Discovery Centre:
Explore hands-on natural history exhibits with fossils, interactive displays and touchable specimens.
Tip: Have kids press buttons and handle replica fossils to spark curiosity about nature.
Time Detectives Trail:
Pick up a free booklet for a scavenger hunt across the museum’s galleries.
Tip: Collect stamps at each station and reward kids with a sticker at the end.
Canterbury Street & Big Wheel Bicycle Model:
Wander a 19th-century street scene and admire the oversized bicycle wheel.
Tip: Let children stand next to the big wheel to appreciate its size and take fun photos.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Canterbury Museum
- Arrive early: Visit right at opening to enjoy quieter galleries.
- Pick up the trail booklet: Get the Time Detectives booklet at reception to guide the visit.
- Plan a picnic: Bring snacks and eat at Botanic Gardens next door after your tour.
Reviews of Canterbury Museum
daniela _ carina
Usually we are not really into museums but when we visited in the beginning of February 25 we had a really good time walking through the exhibitions (especially the Wharenui Harikoa, because it included light into the art as well) 🥰 Beside the entrance we even had the opportunity to make pompoms at a little creative area, so I would definitely recommend a visit 😊
Linda Holmes
Considering it is a pop up while the museum is under renovation this museum was a good visit. The staff were really helpful. We enjoyed it. My grandson loved the meteor!
B. F. G.
Some old favourites on display and then the other part dedicated to the the docudrama of New Zealand's 19th century past. Free entry. Combine with a visit to the Art museum on the other side of the block.
Dave Houlihan
Alright, check this out! There's this seriously cool, full-size wharenui that's popping up in Canterbury! Get this – it's not made of wood, but totally crocheted by hand using get this... FIVE THOUSAND balls of super bright, colorful yarn! It's already been blowing minds all over New Zealand, and now it's our turn, Cantabrians! You gotta see this awesome mix of classic Māori carving vibes but done...
E S
Took a look around the small pop up they have until the main museum opens up again and it was a lovely discovery. The marae was an exceptional treat.
When is the best time to visit Canterbury Museum (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
From mid-June to mid-July follow the free Matariki Trail around the galleries. During school holidays pick up the Time Detectives booklet for extra fun.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General admission | NZD 0 |
| Optional Quake City Exhibit (per adult) | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 40 |
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 Canterbury Museum
Address: 66 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
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About Canterbury Museum
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 3 366 500010 BEST nearby Activities
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