Hagley Park South (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hagley Park South?
What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: Children can bike on traffic-free loops, kick balls on huge lawns, join low-cost family punting, and access toilets and drinking fountains, but there is no adventure playground on site.
Positives:
- Free BBQ and Water: Complimentary gas barbecues and drinking fountains are scattered near picnic shelters.
- Flat, Paved Paths: Wide, smooth loops suit strollers and young cyclists.
Challenges:
- Advance Booking Required: Punt rides and bike packages often sell out on weekends—reserve ahead online.
- Variable Weather: Open lawns offer little shelter in rain or wind; check forecast and pack rain gear.
What is Hagley Park South?
- Forms the southern section of Christchurch’s central Hagley Park, bounded by Riccarton Avenue, Moorhouse Avenue and Rolleston Avenue
- Comprises open lawns, mature elm and oak avenues, and the Avon River corridor, crafting a green landscape within the urban core
- Includes Hagley Oval cricket ground, the Christchurch Horticultural Centre and heritage features such as the Bandsmen’s Memorial Rotunda, all managed by Christchurch City Council
What is so special about Hagley Park South for with kids?
- 30-minute punt with costumed guide on Avon River
- Family bike package on flat park loops
- Free BBQ shelters, picnic tables and water taps
- Wide lawns for games, kites and a seasonal scavenger hunt
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a punt ride, family bike hire, a picnic and open-field play without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hagley Park South
Punting on the Avon River:
Drift past the Botanic Gardens on a 30-minute Edwardian-style punt with a costumed punter sharing local stories.
Tip: Book in advance and note children under 5 ride free with a paying adult.
Family Bike Hire:
Rent a family package (2 adults + 2 children) for 2 hours from Antigua Boat Sheds to explore park paths.
Tip: Pick up bikes early to avoid peak crowds and bring helmets for all.
Picnic & Barbecue:
Use free gas barbecues and shaded tables near the Cricket Oval for a bring-your-own lunch.
Tip: Arrive before noon to secure a sheltered spot and refill water at nearby fountains.
Open-Field Games & Scavenger Hunt:
Bring a ball, frisbee or kite for lawn games. In spring look for daffodils; in autumn count colorful leaves.
Tip: Map out a simple scavenger list and give each child a bag for found items.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hagley Park South
- Combine Activities: Start with a punt ride, then bike the flat 3.6 km loop before picnic time.
- Early Arrival: Arrive by 10 am to grab the best picnic spot and quieter bike paths.
Reviews of Hagley Park South
Andrew Thompson
Went to the Hagley Oval to watch New Zealand vs England. Fantastic venue with easy access to the botanic gardens and the city.
Phalguni Mukherjee
There are so many trees inside the garden. A display like nameplate and description of the particular tree will help others for identification of the particular tree. There should be an authorised guide to show the garden properly to foreign visitors.
Christophe Craig
Nice place to chill in the sun, or play netball or football. It’s nice to go in the north part too have a little walk, there even is some sort of gym equipments there and the botanical gardens. Must see if you are staying around
Andrea Tripodi
Not as beautiful as North Hagley Park, with less choice of waking, but still has irs charm. Also, the public car park could be a bit bigger as there is plenty of space for it. Overall it's nice anyway. Recommend
Pratik Singh Solanki
Well maintained and beautiful Cricket ground. Its not big one than other grounds. Situated in heart of the city South Hagley park. This ground is suitable to conduct every format of international cricket. I went there for Indian-NZ test match. It was a good treat to have there. The atmosphere was completely different then India, of course, Indians are more crazy about cricket so quite hard to cont...
When is the best time to visit Hagley Park South (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Spring brings daffodils and blossom; summer offers cool shade under mature trees; autumn colors line the river paths. Winter can be chilly and wet—pack layers and a raincoat.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family punt ticket (2 adults + up to 3 kids) | NZD 130 |
| Family bike hire (2h) | NZD 45 |
| Car parking (2h) | NZD 4.6 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 179.6 |
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 Hagley Park South
Address: 57 Riccarton Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
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About Hagley Park South
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
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