Tūranga (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Tūranga?
What makes it 93% Kids-Friendly: Family Place offers LEGO play, Discovery Wall games, crafts and storytimes; free toilets, lockers and water nearby let parents relax while 3-12 year olds learn and burn energy safely.
Positives:
- Free entry: All library activities and areas are free to use, with optional small donations.
- Child-friendly facilities: Lockers, drinking fountains, toilets, and a parenting room ensure family comfort.
- Indoor environment: Central indoor space is ideal for rainy or windy days in Christchurch.
Challenges:
- Crowds during holidays: Kids’ areas and workshops fill up quickly in school holiday periods.
- Limited café seating: The ground-floor café can run out of tables at peak times.
- Library etiquette: Children must use inside voices and avoid running to respect other visitors.
What is Tūranga?
- A nine-storey library serving as the flagship location for Christchurch City Libraries
- A multifunctional civic hub combining open-plan reading areas, digital studios and community spaces across multiple levels
- A sustainably engineered structure characterized by a sawtooth roof, full-height glazing and a landscaped rooftop garden
What is so special about Tūranga for with kids?
- Free LEGO play and craft zones for ages 3–12
- Storytime sessions with songs and puppets
- Complimentary coding and robotics workshops
- Interactive Discovery Wall touchscreens
- Family-friendly amenities like lockers, toilets, and café
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets kids explore play areas and join workshops without feeling rushed.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Tūranga
Imagination Station:
Build with Duplo and LEGO bricks in a dedicated play area.
Tip: Visit early to grab a table. A NZ$3 donation is appreciated per visit.
After-school Activity Zones:
Drop in for arts, crafts, or homework help in the children’s area.
Tip: Check the daily board for theme details and arrive any time after 3pm.
Wā Kōrero – Storytimes:
Join group story reading with songs and puppets for ages 2–6.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure floor seating near the storyteller.
Kids’ Tech Workshops:
Try free robotics and coding sessions for ages 7–12.
Tip: Book slots online at least a week ahead to guarantee your place.
Discovery Wall:
Explore interactive touchscreens and educational games.
Tip: Combine with a storytime visit to vary kids’ activities.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Tūranga
- Reserve workshops early: Check the online timetable and book kids’ tech and craft sessions in advance.
- Use free lockers: Store prams and extra gear in the lockers on each floor for easier movement.
- Visit off-peak: Arrive after 3pm on weekdays to avoid morning school groups and crowds.
Reviews of Tūranga
Mike Cristello
Great facility in the middle of the downtown core. A little tough to find parking but when you do you get all access to fourth floors of information and entertainment! The family area on the first floor was full of things for kids to do. Highly recommended for a rainy day.
Gaston Bacquet
Great public library. Very bright, lots of charging spots and places to play chess, do jigsaw puzzles and work quietly. Has a coffee shop on the ground floor, coffee is good quality. I was a visitor to the city, and spent a few hours working; fast wifi and a very pleasant place to read and work.
Jan
Very well done library! The childrens area on the first floor is extensive and well designed! Be sure to check out the Church Registers on Level 2 and to get one of the book bundles which are curated by library staff!
B. F. G.
Incredible space, designed incredibly well... dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and all things attached to that. The library has four floors, several alcoves, nooks, crannies, books, creative spaces, viewing decks and absolutely anything else you could think you would do on a rainy day... including Lego, film making, sewing and let's just a restaurant in the lobby that had won best cheese s...
Wan Jai
Great library in the heart of the city. Plenty spots for kids and adults. Good cafe on the ground floor.
When is the best time to visit Tūranga (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
During school holidays, extra kids’ programs run daily. Check the online calendar and book workshops early.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Imagination Station donation | NZD 3 |
| Café snacks and drinks | NZD 30 |
| 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 Tūranga
Address: 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
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About Tūranga
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 3 941 792310 BEST nearby Activities
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