Quake City (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Quake City?
What makes it 92% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter free, then jump on the seismograph, pump liquefaction sand, design LEGO buildings and follow a clue sheet; one-level layout and staff used to school groups make the visit excellent.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids: Children under 15 enter free with an adult, making it budget-friendly for families.
- Pram and wheelchair access: Wide, level paths allow easy movement with strollers or wheelchairs.
Challenges:
- No dedicated baby-change room: There’s no specific changing facility; ask staff for access to staff restrooms.
- Audio overlap: Films play on loop and can overlap in sound; bring headphones or choose a quiet corner.
What is Quake City?
- A central Christchurch gallery presenting the story of the 2010–11 Canterbury earthquakes through multimedia displays and authentic artifacts
- A collaborative project with Canterbury Museum showcasing seismic instrumentation, ground liquefaction models and the fallen cathedral spire
- A purpose-built venue illustrating seismic science, structural damage and Christchurch’s post-quake reconstruction narrative
What is so special about Quake City for with kids?
- Hands-on science activities that engage kids
- Free admission for under-15 children
- Indoor exhibits suitable for any weather
- Interactive films and seismograph jump game
- Easy stroller access with wide, level paths
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: An hour or two lets families explore the interactive exhibits without rushing and keeps young children engaged.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Quake City
Liquefaction simulator:
Pump air into a sandpit to see how liquefaction makes the ground behave like quicksand.
Tip: Guide kids to take turns pumping and discuss why some streets sank during earthquakes.
LEGO building challenge:
Use LEGO bricks to design a new Christchurch structure with your children.
Tip: Encourage teamwork by dividing roles: one child designs, another builds.
Seismograph jumping game:
Jump beside a seismograph to register and see your own quake magnitude.
Tip: Have kids predict their quake strength before jumping to add excitement.
Short interactive films:
Watch '12.51' and 'Ripping the Streets' to hear real stories in under 10 minutes each.
Tip: Sit near the screen for clear audio and pause between films to discuss with your kids.
Activity sheet treasure hunt:
Pick up a free family trail sheet and solve puzzles around the exhibits.
Tip: Start with the sheet at reception and reward kids with the small prize at the end.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Quake City
- Arrive at opening: Get there at 10 am to enjoy the exhibits before it gets busy.
- Grab activity sheets early: Pick up the family trail sheet at reception to guide your visit.
Reviews of Quake City
Penny Gaffney
Well organised display and interesting fact present of the earthquakes in Christchurch that change the face of the city! The staff at the entrance desk was super friendly and very lovely to chat to as he is a local Christchurch resident. It was super interesting that the information printed on wooden board material used as a display. The video of survival stories is very sad and actually last abou...
Pleayo Tovaranonte
The exhibition is very visual and interactive. The interview component is moving and touching. It brought me back to the day I was there.
Jerome cookson
Informative, kind and friendly staff. Worth visiting when in Chch to understand what the city went through. Young children may not find it that captivating but it’s a relatively quick visit.
B. F. G.
Events of this day has left a significant impression on community of Christchurch. This museum shows how the event that day, had brought the community together and how Christchurch has grown since then. Personal stories are shared. While nothing compares to actually living through such an event, Quake City does portray this history with care and compassion. Worth a visit if you don't underst...
life
A must go to, too appreciate the lovely kindness unity and strength of the NZ people. Very emotional excellent videos and explanation on earthquake liquefaction and architectural brillance to counteract nature. A few hands on and jump on things for kids. Friendly informative staff, ask them about the clocks
When is the best time to visit Quake City (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Quake City is fully indoors, so it’s ideal any weather. Visit mid-week or early morning during school holidays to avoid crowds.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult tickets | NZD 40 |
| Child tickets (free under 15) | NZD 0 |
| 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 Quake City
Address: 299 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
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About Quake City
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 3 365 8375Average price
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