Spring
20 July 2026
Christchurch comes alive in spring. With parks and avenues lined with cherry blossoms and vibrant daffodils. With mild daytime temperatures, this is the season to enjoy our recreation areas and gardens.
Christchurch is full of gardens meaning it is full of beautiful flowers. Check out these spots around town where you can get amongst the colourful flowerbeds, and even some you can pick and take home. Your eyes and nose will thank you!
‘Hanami’ is a Japanese word that translates to ‘flower watching’. Thanks to our beautiful city gardens you can experience the beauty of ‘sakura’ (the Japanese term for the annual celebration of springtime) without crossing any borders.
Ōtautahi’s own Hagley Park North flourishes with cherry blossoms in spring. The best time for viewing is mid-September. Bike to the Christchurch Farmers' Market, grab a bite to eat before using the cycleways to journey to the park, and enjoy the flowers in bloom.
Prime viewing time for the Cherry blossoms in Hagley Park is mid-September to early October dependent on weather conditions.
Yes, another great place to see Japanese cherry blossoms is at the Kurashiki Garden within the Sister City Gardens at Halswell Quarry Park.
Here you can experience native flowers from our Sister Cities around the world, Kurashiki (Japan), Adelaide (South Australia), Christchurch (England), Gansu Province (China), Seattle (USA), and Songpa-Gu (Korea).
Most walks are wheelchair-friendly and range from 15 to 60 minutes depending on time spent enjoying the blossoms.
Due to the sheltered nature of the quarry, the blossoms are normally out later than in Hagley Park, with the third week of September providing the most vibrant viewing.
The daffodil woodland in Hagely Park is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Located under a canopy of established oak and ash trees and spanning two hectares on the south-west side of the Avon River, this is the place to take the ulitmate spring photo or have a picnic. Please note the daffodils at the daffodil woodland are not for picking.
Another public exhibit of daffodils is along the median strip of Linwood Avenue, creating a stunning seasonal display each spring. For the best experience, take a leisurely walk or cycle along the avenue to enjoy the vibrant flowers up close.
Please remember that these daffodils are a protected community display. To help preserve their beauty for everyone, picking or damaging the flowers is strictly prohibited.
Hadstock Farm is a family-run business just a 20-minute drive from Christchurch. One of the largest flower growers in New Zealand, Hadstock is most well known for its daffodils.
Each daffodil season Hadstock hosts a ‘pick your own’ open weekend in September. Dates change annually so check out the Hadstock Farm facebook page for dates and information.
Mona Vale is one of Christchurch's most iconic heritage gardens, featuring historic buildings, picturesque landscapes, mature trees, and a stunning setting alongside the Ōtākaro Avon River.
Renowned as one of Canterbury's premier public gardens, Mona Vale offers spectacular displays throughout the year. The beautifully manicured gardens include expansive rolling lawns, woodland plantings, a renowned rose garden, colour-themed borders and a tranquil lily pond.
From September to October, Mona Vale's gardens are a sea of colour, with spring blooms including cherry blossoms, rhododendrons, tulips and irises.
Mona Vale's seasonal flower displays are refreshed in April and November each year.
Experience the beauty of spring at Otahuna Lodge, home to one of Canterbury’s most spectacular seasonal garden displays. Located in the picturesque village of Tai Tapu, just south of Christchurch, the historic lodge is surrounded by 30 acres of award-winning gardens, including vibrant daffodil fields that burst into colour each year.
With a history spanning more than 125 years, Otahuna Lodge offers visitors the opportunity to explore its beautifully maintained grounds through private garden tours (available on request, minimum fees apply).
For a truly memorable spring getaway, extend your visit with an overnight stay at the luxury lodge. Enjoy premium amenities including massage treatments, a swimming pool, spa pool and fine dining.
The daffodils typically flower from late August through September, making this the ideal time to visit and experience the gardens at their springtime best. Planning your stay during this period offers the best opportunity to enjoy the colourful blooms and stunning seasonal displays.
Be sure to share your Christchurch spring images with us using @otautahichristchurch
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