Halswell Quarry (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Halswell Quarry?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can roam lawns, try orienteering and learn quarry history on safe short tracks, yet unfenced drops and ponds and no playground demand close supervision.
Positives:
- Free entry and activities: All trails, picnic areas and walking loops cost nothing to use.
- Family-friendly facilities: Toilets with drinking fountains and parking are close to picnic zones.
Challenges:
- No fenced playground: There is no dedicated play equipment—kids play on natural features only.
- Muddy tracks after rain: Boardwalks stay fairly dry but unsealed paths get slippery when wet.
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 kids?
- Short, flat boardwalk walk lets kids spot birds easily
- Picnic area with tables, toilets and open lawns for play
- 1 km Quarry Rim Track offers gentle hike with views
- Free orienteering map turns trails into a treasure hunt
- Natural rock faces and creeklets let kids explore
- Mobile café provides snacks and ice creams on weekends
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives enough time for a wetland walk, picnic break, short hike and play without rushing little ones.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Halswell Quarry
Canterbury Wetland Walk:
Follow the 800 m boardwalk through native wetlands.
Tip: Bring binoculars so kids can spot birds from the raised path.
Findlay’s Picnic Area:
Settle at tables beside a calm pond for lunch or snacks.
Tip: Pack a picnic blanket; the grass area is perfect for kids to run off energy.
Quarry Rim Track:
Complete the 1 km loop around the old quarry face.
Tip: Start late morning when lighting highlights rock textures and views.
Orienteering Treasure Hunt:
Download a free map and find hidden control points.
Tip: Print maps at home to avoid poor cell signal in the park.
Natural Play:
Let kids climb gentle rock faces and splash in creeklets.
Tip: Bring a change of clothes and water shoes for creek play.
Quarry Café Snack Stop:
Grab coffee, burgers or ice cream at the mobile café.
Tip: Weekends are busiest; buy early to avoid waiting during peak times.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Halswell Quarry
- Arrive early: Beat the midday crowd and secure a picnic table in the shade.
- Download maps in advance: Offline orienteering maps prevent delays from poor mobile coverage.
- Use pram-friendly routes: Choose Quarry View or Wetland Walk for smooth, level surfaces.
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)?
Spring brings wildflowers in Sister-City Gardens. Summer paths can get hot—bring sunhats and water. In winter expect mud on unsealed tracks—wear boots.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Packed picnic lunch | NZD 20 |
| Quarry Café snacks and ice creams | NZD 25 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 45 |
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 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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