Halswell Quarry (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Halswell Quarry?
What makes it 67% Baby-Friendly: Pram-friendly paths, toilets and lawns suit a brief baby outing, but no change tables, nursing room or weather shelter mean parents must improvise comfort and limit visit length.
Positives:
- Pram-Friendly Routes: Multiple tracks have firm surfaces and gentle slopes for strollers.
- Free Facilities: Public toilets, drinking fountains and parking are all free.
- Accessible Parking: Large car park sits close to toilets and picnic areas.
Challenges:
- No Baby-Change Tables: Toilets lack dedicated change units; bring a portable mat.
- Muddy After Rain: Boardwalks and unpaved sections get slippery in wet weather.
- No Fenced Playground: Open areas require constant supervision of your baby.
What is Halswell Quarry?
- A former basalt quarry on Christchurch’s Port Hills, repurposed into a public urban park
- A landscaped reserve combining exposed volcanic rock faces, themed Sister City Gardens and native wetland habitats
- A Christchurch City Council-managed section of Port Hills Reserve that blends industrial heritage with ecological restoration and public amenities
What is so special about Halswell Quarry for with baby?
- Short paved walks and boardwalks ideal for strollers
- Sheltered picnic tables and free toilets near car park
- Open lawns for baby play and scenic views at lookout
- Bring essentials: change mat, sun protection, sturdy pram
- Weekend coffee cart adds easy refreshment stop
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time for short walks, picnic and breaks without rushing a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Halswell Quarry
Quarry View Short Walk:
A 250 m paved path leading to a 360° lookout over the quarry and gardens.
Tip: Use a sturdy pram and bring a sunhat for open sections.
Canterbury Wetland Walk:
An 800 m boardwalk loop through native wetland habitat with birdlife.
Tip: Wear shoes with grip; boardwalks get muddy after rain.
Findlay’s Walk to Picnic Area:
A gentle 10 min track from the car park up to sheltered tables and toilets.
Tip: Pack snacks and baby supplies; toilets lack change tables.
Natural Play on Open Lawns:
Wide grassy slopes and gentle hills perfect for baby tummy time or supervised crawling.
Tip: Bring a blanket and supervise near creeklets and rock faces.
Coffee & Snacks at Quarry Café:
Mobile coffee cart by the visitor centre selling hot drinks and light bites.
Tip: Best on weekends; take away to enjoy at nearby benches.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Halswell Quarry
- Bring a Portable Mat: Use your own changing mat for quick diaper changes.
- Check Weather First: Choose paved tracks like Quarry View when ground is wet.
- Arrive Early: Secure a parking spot near toilets and picnic benches.
- Use a Robust Pram: Opt for one with large wheels to handle loose gravel.
Reviews of Halswell Quarry
Laura Wilson
Beautiful place with beautiful scenery and history along the way. Great for the whole family my children love searching for little lizards and the wild hare. They often have sheep on the hill too
Yuka
Kurashiki Garden was absolutely beautiful with the cherry blossoms in full bloom. The walking trail up the hill has lovely views, and it’s fun for dogs, kids, and of course adults too.
Michael Shattock
Went for a walk 10:30am Monday 1 September 2025. Met a lovely man and had some great views on such a clear day. Great gardens and a museum type thing, which I obviously didn't go in to cause I'm not even sure what it was called.😂😂😂
Alexander Griffin
Very cool to see all the rocks and to have an amazing walk.
James Rawin
Love to visit the place for photographs. Spot the rabbit 🐰, coffee then return home. If you have digs, good to bringing along. I travel there by bus from bus interchange but other than that you can drive car or bike for good exercise.
When is the best time to visit Halswell Quarry (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
In spring look for wildflowers around Sister-City Gardens. In summer pack suncream and hats. In winter expect muddy paths; stick to paved routes.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Park entry | NZD 0 |
| Coffee (2 cups) | NZD 10 |
| Snack or ice cream | NZD 8 |
| Picnic supplies | NZD 15 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 33 |
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 Halswell Quarry
Address: Kennedys Bush Road, Kennedys Bush, Christchurch 8025, New Zealand
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About Halswell Quarry
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+64 3 941 899910 BEST nearby Activities
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