Activities
25 March 2025
Free bbq spots in Christchurch
Throw a few snags on these free barbies.
Best spots to use the city's free bbqs
We’re so lucky here in Ōtautahi Christchurch to have access to beautiful beaches, forests and lakes around our city.
And nothing beats a fun day out with family and friends, especially when it’s… FREE.
Did you know there are heaps of electric barbecues free for use in our city’s parks?
Well, grab the kids, the dog and the chilly bin because we think we’ve found the best spots.
Scarborough Park
Head to Sumner, one of Christchurch’s most beautiful beaches, for a relaxed day on the sand.
Stroll the promenade, and head to Scarborough Park where the kids can enjoy a dip in the paddling pool and a barbecue lunch finished with an ice cream cone.
Features:
- Free bbqs (first in, first served)
- Playground
- Paddling pool
- Access to Sumner beach
- Public toilets
- Trees, walkways, cafés
- Sumner Scarborough clock tower
The Groynes
There’s something for everyone at the Groynes, north of the city.
With plenty of walking tracks, multiple playgrounds and heaps of picnic areas by the water, it’s a great day out for family and friends.
Features:
- Multiple free bbqs (first in, first served) and picnic areas
- Playgrounds including a flying fox and multi-play structures
- River and recreational fishing lakes
- Pedal boats, aqua bikes, single and double canoes for hire
- Walking tracks
- Dog park
- Orienteering courses
- Public toilets
- Trees and open spaces
Spencer Park
Your next family day out is sorted at Spencer Park!
Found on the edge of Bottle Lake Forest in northeast Christchurch, there’s plenty to do and see here at this great recreational park.
And the best part is that the beach is never far away...
Features:
- Free bbqs (first in, first served)
- Playground
- Small animal enclosure
- Paddling pool
- Walking and horse tracks
- Access to beach
- Public toilets
- Trees and wide spaces
- Volleyball, tennis and basketball courts
- Mini golf
- Holiday park
South New Brighton Domain
Between the city and the sea in eastern Christchurch, there’s no better place than New Brighton.
Visit the pier, take in the seaside views along the South Brighton boardwalk and head to South New Brighton Domain for a picnic and some fun at the edge of the estuary.
Features:
- Free bbqs (first in, first served)
- Playground
- Public toilets
- Basketball and tennis courts
- Jetty
- Walking tracks
- Bookable picnic area
Burnside Park
In the heart of the northwest, down the road from Christchurch airport, is Burnside Park.
The large park is a hub of activity with various sports clubs and joggers using the massive space all day, every day.
The park is also a great spot for repose. There’s a playground for the kids, plenty of benches and picnic areas for a lovely afternoon in the sun.
Features:
- Free bbq (first in, first served)
- Playground
- Fitness equipment
- Sports fields
- Public toilets
- Trees and open spaces
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