New Regent Street Precinct (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is New Regent Street Precinct?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: The pedestrian lane offers gelato, waffles, a small play spot and low-cost tram tickets, but families must walk 2–5 min for toilets and the street lacks dedicated child entertainment.
Positives:
- Safe pedestrian stroll: The traffic-free brick surface lets kids roam without worry.
- Photo-friendly architecture: The colourful façades make quick, fun backdrops for family portraits.
- Kid-focused eateries: Several shops offer child-friendly menus and quick-pay options.
Challenges:
- No on-site restrooms: Public toilets are off the street—plan breaks at nearby Cathedral Square or Riverside Market.
- Slippery when wet: Brick surfaces can become slick in rain—bring shoes with good grip and slow down.
What is New Regent Street Precinct?
- A heritage-listed pedestrian street in Christchurch’s central district featuring pastel-coloured Spanish Mission–style façades
- A continuous 100-metre brick-paved mall originally constructed in 1932 to house boutique shops, cafés and restaurants
- A precinct featuring period street lamps, heritage tram tracks and a unified architectural design
What is so special about New Regent Street Precinct for with kids?
- Ride the heritage tram for city views and history.
- Build-your-own waffles and enjoy gelato cones.
- Let kids play safely at the nearby fenced area.
- Snap family photos against pastel architecture.
- Explore pedestrian-only street with easy stroller access.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for snacks, tram ride and a relaxed stroll with kids
Kids-Friendly Activities in New Regent Street Precinct
Heritage tram ride:
Board the heritage tram directly on New Regent Street for a fun, guided tour of central Christchurch.
Tip: Buy round-trip family tickets at the booth to save time and let kids glimpse the driver’s cabin.
Build-your-own waffles at Waffle Haus:
Let kids choose fruit and chocolate toppings on warm waffles.
Tip: Go soon after opening to avoid the midday queue and grab a table under the awning.
Rollickin’ Gelato treat:
Pick from rotating gelato flavours for a cool reward after walking.
Tip: Aim for early afternoon to catch the freshest scoops and bench spots for people-watching.
Fenced play area:
Let little ones burn energy at the small, safe playground just off New Regent Street.
Tip: Bring hand sanitizer and a snack; adults can relax at a nearby café while watching.
Family photo shoot:
Capture memories against the pastel Spanish Mission façades.
Tip: Visit just after sunrise or before sunset for soft light and fewer passersby.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to New Regent Street Precinct
- Download a scavenger app: Use the Let’s Roam Local app for a free mini-hunt that keeps kids engaged.
- Visit early: Arrive before 10 AM to beat café queues and snag play-area shade.
- Combine nearby sights: Pair your visit with a short walk to Isaac Theatre Royal for a child-friendly show.
Reviews of New Regent Street Precinct
Erik Merkley
Great street for any kind of food or drink you desire - just don't get hit by a tram.
K T Lim
Beautiful street of eateries and artisans/ boutiques. Located right next to a operating tram - last station. Number of boutiques closed on Mondays. However, F&B cafes, barsand restaurants are open for lunch onwards. Enjoying a sticky Date Pudding with salty caramel ice-cream at Rollicking Dessert Cafe seated outside right next to the tram. You can also do your nails, do your hair or massage wit...
Hock Lye, Khaleel, CHAN
New Regent Street in Christchurch is a charming, historic pedestrian mall in the heart of the city centre. Renowned for its distinctive Spanish Mission architecture and pastel-coloured shopfronts, it is arguably one of New Zealand’s most beautiful streets and a major tourist attraction. Lined with individually owned shops, eateries, and quirky boutiques, New Regent Street offers a delightful range...
Bernard Savage
This street, built in the 1930s in an Art Deco style is an interesting collection of restaurants bars and cafes and a nice stop on the tram tour of the city. It is easy to get around and there are plenty of different options for food available.
Heaven Segaran
New Regent Street is undeniably charming, with its picturesque vibe amplified when the tram rolls through. It offers a variety of restaurants to choose from, making it a potential spot for a quick meal or coffee. However, the overall experience fell short of expectations. The street looks a bit rundown, and there was an odd smell that detracted from the visit. While it’s worth a brief stop if you...
When is the best time to visit New Regent Street Precinct (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Summer mornings are cooler and less crowded; autumn evenings can be chilly—pack layers; look for festive holiday lights in December.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 kids’ waffles at Waffle Haus | NZD 24 |
| 2 gelato scoops at Rollickin’ | NZD 12 |
| Family heritage tram ride | NZD 60 |
| 2 adults’ brunch at Belle Café | NZD 44 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 140 |
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 New Regent Street Precinct
Address: Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides New Regent Street Precinct (Christchurch)?
About New Regent Street Precinct
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 27 253 329110 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇳🇿 New Zealand, with kids
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities