Scarborough Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Scarborough Park?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy a large modern playground, splash pad, beach and open lawns; supervision is vital because the pool is unsupervised and the surf can be rough at times.
Positives:
- Family-friendly equipment: Slides, rope bridges, toddler swings and splash features suit ages 3–12.
- Accessibility: Smooth, level paths from car park to playground and pool are stroller-friendly.
- Free facilities: Electric BBQs, picnic tables, toilets and change rooms come at no cost.
Challenges:
- No lifeguard: Adult supervision is required at the splash pad and paddling pool.
- Limited baby-changing: Toilets lack dedicated changing benches and privacy curtains.
- Wind exposure: The esplanade can be windy; bring a windbreaker or light jacket.
What is Scarborough Park?
- A waterfront public park at the eastern end of Sumner Beach, characterised by grassy terraces and mature pohutukawa trees
- A coastal reserve featuring a modern children’s playground, zero-depth splash pad and seasonal paddling pool beside the sandy shore
- A Christchurch City Council–managed green space with picnic tables, electric barbecues and accessible pathways
What is so special about Scarborough Park for with kids?
- Modern playground with slides, climbing walls and toddler swings
- Zero-depth splash pad and paddling pool open mid-Nov to late March
- Free electric BBQs and shaded picnic tables
- Direct beach access for sandcastle building and boogie boarding
- Flat coastal trail to Cave Rock for easy family walks
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time for playground, paddling pool, beach play and a barbecue break without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Scarborough Park
Playground Adventure:
Climb rope bridges, slides and towers at the modern playground.
Tip: Bring socks for the climbing walls and supervise toddlers on toddler-friendly swings.
Splash Pad & Paddling Pool:
Enjoy zero-depth water features with geysers and sprinklers leading to a shallow pool.
Tip: Open mid-November to late March; pack towels and water shoes.
Sandcastle & Boogie Boarding:
Build sandcastles on Sumner Beach or hire a boogie board.
Tip: Bring sand toys; boogie board hire is NZD 35 for 3 hours from Learn to Surf.
Picnic & BBQ:
Use free electric barbecues under shade sails for a family lunch.
Tip: Arrive early to claim a barbecue station; bring utensils and picnic gear.
Coastal Promenade to Cave Rock:
Walk the 1.25 km paved path to scramble through Cave Rock at low tide.
Tip: Check tide times online and keep kids close on rocky sections.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Scarborough Park
- Secure BBQ spot early: Arrive before noon to claim a shaded barbecue station near the playground.
- Plan Cave Rock walk: Check tide charts online to ensure safe access and return timings.
- Pack extra gear: Use zip-lock bags for wet swimwear, towels and a change of clothes.
Reviews of Scarborough Park
Doug Grieve
Great place to take the kids to burn off some energy, plenty of space and also picnic tables too.
Hao
Great park great playground. Loads of fun and have a toilet near by. Beach is not far away
Ravi Lal
Park for kids to hang out. There are a lot of activity play stations available. The place looks clean and tidy. There is a lot of space for running and having a picnic. You do not have to pay to use these facilities.
Liandy Kritzinger
Stunning place, and Scenery! Lots to do in and around the area. Children's park and splash pool were nice and clean. I would only suggest updating the "family" bathroom by the playground. Had no place to change my baby or to be able to breastfeed.
K H
Awesome playground for bigger kids (3.5+) with big slides and a climbing nest. Paddling pool is great for the little ones. The ground does get very hot on sunny days so do bring shoes. BBQ and grass area is very popular for picnics and group gatherings.
When is the best time to visit Scarborough Park (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Splash pad and paddling pool run mid-Nov to late March. In summer, pack sunscreen and hats; shaded sails cover the splash area but playground shade is limited. In cooler months, bring jackets and windbreakers.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Boogie board hire (3 hrs) | NZD 35 |
| Ice creams (4) | NZD 16 |
| Cafe brunch (2 adults) | NZD 40 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 91 |
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 Scarborough Park
Address: 147 Esplanade, Sumner, Christchurch 8081, New Zealand
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About Scarborough Park
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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