We all know parks and gardens are wonderful fun for most. Lucky for you, there are plenty in Christchurch. They’re great for self-healing, having a picnic with pals or just letting off steam while strolling with your dog. Indeed, we are spoiled for choice with parks and gardens in Christchurch. Here are seven of the best spots.
1. Christchurch Botanic Gardens
As one of our favourite spots for a picnic, you’ll find plenty of plants and greenery to stare at till your hearts content. Whatever the season, be wowed by different flower displays, greenhouses, ponds, and more. Certainly, a therapeutic place to be.
📍 Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
2. Port Hills
Port Hills are a stunning mountain range and ancient volcano in the Canterbury region of Christchurch. It’s one of the quintessential spots around the city to soak in the true beauty of New Zealand. With stunning views out to sea, cracking bike trails and great walking routes, this spot really has it all. Likewise, it’s actually one of the most instagrammable places in Christchurch.
📍 Cashmere, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand
3. Hagley Park
Certainly, this spot is the largest open urban space in Christchurch, which frequently hosts festivals. There’s cafes, picnic areas, walking and running trails, as well as facilities for a number of sports including golf, tennis and netball. This is the perfect place for a quick walk or a full day out.
📍 Hagley Park North, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
4. Quail Island
If you’re feeling a day-trip full of greenery, you could do a lot worse than taking the 15-minute boat ride out to Quail Island. It’s full of idyllic spots for picnics and faces the waterfront. With the sea air, outstanding views, and the water to swim in on warm days, this is a great spot for anyone.
📍 Quail Island, Christchurch, New Zealand
5. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
What better way to calm your mind than to head out into the greenery and hang out among some beautiful wildlife? You can see some kiwis, take your kids to some animal petting and even feed some lemurs.
📍 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand
6. Styx Mill Conservation Reserve
Another one of the best parks and gardens in Christchurch. Styx Mill Conservation Reserve is loved by walkers, runners and cyclists, as well as those who want to check out some wildlife. Glide along the trails and get lost in its tracks as you take in the birdsongs and nature-y scents.
📍 Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand
7. Halswell Quarry
Another great location for relaxing walks that take you to your own happy place. Halswell Quarry has plenty of waking routes and two large bike trails to lose yourself in. It also houses little collections displays pointing to its sister cities: Adelaide (AUS), Gansu Province (China), Kurashiki (Japan), Seattle (USA) and Songpa-Gu (Korea).
📍 Kennedy’s Bush Road, Halswell, Christchurch 8025, New Zealand
Words by Jack Saddler. Updated by Megan Zara Walsh.