Nature
26 March 2025
Christchurch's best picnic spots
Dust off the picnic basket and round up the gang, it's picnic time! Get inspired and plan your next picnic adventure right here, in picturesque Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Things To Do
Perfect picnic spots in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Round up your whānau and pack up the basket – we have your next picnic spot sorted, right here in Ōtautahi Christchurch! Discover the best picnic spots near you.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens are a lush green oasis in the heart of Christchurch, the perfect place for a romantic picnic amongst the trees, or for a family day out by the playground. There’s always a quiet corner to sit, relax and listen to the birds sing. Look forward to conservatories blooming flower gardens, paddling pools and playgrounds – absolute bliss!
Mona Vale
If you're looking for another picnic spot closer to the city, Mona Vale is a delightful place to relax in peaceful surroundings. Enjoy a garden of mature trees, sloping lawns and herbaceous borders. The sheltered setting also showcases a number of impressive buildings of regional historic significance. Set up by the river or under a tree – you choose!
Corsair Bay & Cass Bay
Corsair Bay and Cass Bay are situated on the Banks Peninsula, just along from each other. They both offer a peaceful and scenic setting for a seaside picnic, with calm waters and a family-friendly atmosphere. The best part about these two beach spots is that there's lots of grass to sit on, so you get all the benefits of being on a beach without the annoying sand!
Port Hills
Unpack your picnic basket, sip on a glass of bubbles and enjoy the vast scenery from one of the many incredible spots on the Port Hills. Head to Victoria Park where you can park up by the playground, take the dog for a run at the dog park or even take a stroll on one of the walking tracks once you've finished your feast! Mt Cavendish is another great spot, where you'll see panoramic views of Canterbury – don’t forget to pack the camera! Want to see more? Experience a helicopter flight to Mt Herbert, the highest peak on Banks Peninsula.
Quail Island
Dust off the kayak and head over to Lyttelton, where you’ll discover the secrets of Quail Island. Formally a leprosy colony, the peaceful island is rich with history, wildlife and the small beaches make great picnic locations – especially if you're up for a swim. Black Cat Cruises also run a daily Quail Island ferry service in the summer months, or rent a kayak from Lyttleton Kayaks.
Riccarton House & Bush
Not far from the city centre is a hidden oasis, home to heritage buildings, lush forest and stunning gardens. Set up for a picnic under the shade or along the river and soak in the peaceful setting and beautiful bird song. Complete your experience with a tour of Riccarton House and Deans Cottage and learn about the fascinating history of the pioneering Deans family.
Orton Bradley Park
Ideal for a day out with the whole family, Orton Bradley Park has everything you need; paddocks, creeks, native forest and loads of rocks to climb. Sit back and relax while the kids splash in the creeks and play in the paddocks. Test your climbing and balancing skills when you scramble up Big Rock, the views of Lyttelton Harbour are worth the hard yards!
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