Top 5 Activities For Families
1. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and Ko Tāne
With one of the most comprehensive collections of New Zealand native and introduced wildlife in a natural environment Willowbank provides plenty of opportunity to get up close and personal with a wide variety of wildlife including guaranteed kiwi viewing. Wander the reserve at your leisure or for a more personal touch join one of the passionate guides on a tour of our Natural New Zealand area to meet the ‘Big 5’ – kiwi, kākā, tuatara, kea and takahe.
Ko Tāne includes a traditional Māori powhiri and a fully interactive village and a kapahaka performance.
2. International Antarctic Centre – learn about the ice and experience it.
At the International Antarctic Centre, journey through modern day Antarctica and experience a taste of this unique and breathtaking continent. Learn about the human impact on the continent, the wildlife and ecosystems and Antarctica’s effect on the globe.
Brave an Antarctic storm, go off-road in a Hägglund, befriend a husky, mingle with the penguins, experience Antarctica from all four dimensions and leave with a head full of knowledge, a heart full of love and an inspiration to take action.
3. Waka on Avon – paddle a waka on the Ōtākaro Avon River
Leaving from Margaret Mahy Playground, this 45 minute waka paddling experience is an amazing historical and cultural trip on Ōtākaro Avon River. Experience the excitement of paddling a hand-crafted waka down the River Avon, and learn about the importance of the waka to Māori culture.
Enjoy early stories of Canterbury's Ngāi Tahu iwi and the earliest European settlers, and the positive things they achieved building the city of Christchurch together.
4. Orana Wildlife Park – home to world-famous The Lion Encounter
Set in 80 hectares, Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand's only open range zoo. It is within 15 minutes drive from Christchurch airport. The Park provides amazing animal encounters: hand feed giraffe, meet rhino up close, see New Zealand's only gorillas, view kiwi and travel through the lion habitat.
5. Shamarra Alpaca farm tour – pat fluffy alpacas overlooking an immense harbour.
Take a tour with a difference; get up close and personal with Shamarra overlooking Akaroa Harbour. Interesting, informative and interactive presentation about alpacas and their exquisite fibre. Wander through herds of grazing alpacas.
