Victoria Square (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Victoria Square?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Grass to run, duck spotting and hidden sculptures entertain children, and tram or punt rides add fun, but no playground or toilets inside means a 450 m walk to Tūranga for facilities.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly paths: Wide, flat walkways suit strollers and fast little legs.
- Free play areas: No entry fees; lawns and benches invite kids to explore and rest.
Challenges:
- Limited facilities: No toilets or baby-change inside the square; nearest at Christchurch City Library (450 m away).
- Few shaded spots: Bring a sunhat or raincoat as there’s minimal cover.
What is Victoria Square?
- A central public square and landscaped park at the confluence of the Avon River and central Christchurch streets
- Originating as a 19th-century parade ground and civic market, the space adopted the name Victoria Square in 1903 after Queen Victoria’s statue was installed
- Frames notable heritage buildings and historic river crossings, and features commemorative statues, fountains and artistic paving designs
What is so special about Victoria Square for with kids?
- Family-rate punt rides on the Avon River
- Duck feeding and open lawns for safe play
- Interactive art and sculpture hunt for kids
- Hop-on hop-off tram to nearby attractions
- Central, stroller-friendly park with picnic spots
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to enjoy a punt ride, art hunt and a riverside picnic without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Victoria Square
Punting on the Avon River:
Take a 30-minute Edwardian-style punt tour into the Botanic Gardens.
Tip: Book the family ticket (NZD 130) at Antigua Boat Sheds in advance to secure seats.
Duck feeding and riverbank play:
Feed ducks and let kids run safely on the riverside lawns.
Tip: Bring safe bird feed and spare clothes for splashes.
Hidden art hunt:
Search for sculptures, whāriki paving mats and sandblasted illustrations around the square.
Tip: Download a map of the literary trail from the council website before you go.
Hop-on hop-off tram ride:
Ride past Riverside Market, Cathedral Square and back to Victoria Square.
Tip: Buy the family tram pass (NZD 95) and hop off at Margaret Mahy Playground.
Picnic by the river:
Spread a blanket on the grass or use wooden benches for a snack break.
Tip: Pick up fresh treats at Riverside Market 300 m away.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Victoria Square
- Visit early: Arrive before 10 am to find a picnic spot and avoid crowds.
- Combine with playground: Hop off the tram one stop to Margaret Mahy Playground for extra playtime.
- Book tours online: Reserve punt and tram tickets in advance for guaranteed family seating.
Reviews of Victoria Square
Maureen Drum
A picturesque setting. Tranquility in the city.
Penny Gaffney
Lovely little park close to our hotel, I walked past it quite a number of time going from hotel to museums, to dinner, to the hotel.
Will Silby
it might have been a square at one point but with the building development on the other side of the river this park is no longer a square. Disappointing but I still like it
Benjamin O'keeffe
Cool park. Well worth walking through.
Feng Zhu
Well designed and maintained city park. It’s located between the Town Hall and Convention centre, so a good place to take a walk either before or after you join some events. I have only been here a handful of times after living in Christchurch a few years. I definitely will come to here and walk around more often.
When is the best time to visit Victoria Square (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Summer: pack sunhats and sunscreen. Spring: spot the floral clock blooms. Autumn: enjoy cooler walks under coloured leaves. Winter: wear layers and check if the fountain is running before visiting.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Punting family ticket | NZD 130 |
| Tram family pass | NZD 95 |
| Ice cream scoops (4× NZD 3) | NZD 12 |
| Picnic snacks | NZD 30 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 267 |
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 Victoria Square
Address: 3370753, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
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About Victoria Square
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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