The YMCA Christchurch Climbing Wall offers indoor climbing for all levels and ages. It's one of the largest walls in the South Island, with over 75 routes. The climbs range in difficulty from grade 12 to 20 and over. 70% are between grades 14 and 20, and while most children will find the lower grades a piece of cake and a whole heap of fun, we find that many quickly progress to our highest grades!
Take a walk in the treetops!
This is a new concept adventure activity that is perfect to experience as a family group, as both adults and kids love the challenges! The first of its kind in the South Island, the adventure park will feature an aerial obstacle course more than 1km in length, and up to 17metres off the ground.
Caddyshack City is a fantastic, themed indoor mini golf experience. It's mini golf with a difference, with heaps of special effects and intricate models to try to get your ball around or through. There's a castle, gondola, roller coaster, glacial cave and airplane to tackle as well as rapids, erupting volcano, an oil well and much more.
A thrilling NZ adventure the whole family can share! Experience the shallow, twisting streams, turquoise water and swaying broom of the mighty Waimakariri. Jet boating is a truly unique way of discovering one of New Zealand’s newest regional parks – constantly changing and ever challenging, our experienced drivers will safely thrill and spin you, making short work of the swift flowing river as it rushes from the Southern Alps to the ocean. Choose from a half hour blast to a helicopter or horse ride combo adventure – all excursions are family-friendly and Qualmark approved. Transfers can be arranged from Christchurch area. Hats and gloves are provided – please bring warm jacket and a camera.
Canterbury Museum is temporarily closed. For more information please click on our website above.
Canterbury Museum is a window into the wonders of New Zealand and has been operating and collecting treasures for over 130 years. From moas to Antarctic penguins and bizarre artefacts we have something to keep all ages interested. DISCOVERY CENTRE - SPECIALLY FOR THE KIDS! Welcome to Canterbury Museum's natural history centre for children, bursting with weird and wonderful things to explore. Dig for fossils, be wowed by the witch’s pantry and learn all about the amazing natural world. Discovery memberships available with birthday party options. Also check out our school holiday programmes.
Spend a fascinating half-day exploring Quail Island, right in the middle of Lyttelton Harbour. Named after the now extinct native Quail, the island was used as a leprosy colony and a quarantine station by the early European settlers. The Antarctica explorers, Scott and Shackleton, took advantage of the island to train their sled dogs and ponies before setting off on their ill-fated voyages. Today the island is home to native birds including the rare white flippered little blue penguins. Secluded inlets, safe swimming beaches and lovely walks and picnic areas, why not take your lunch and swimming costumes for a great family day out? Toilets and changing rooms on the island. Black Cat run regular departures throughout the summer - why not join the Great Quail Island Treasure Hunt? Simply pick up a treasure map on our ferry on route to the island. Then use the map to find the clues and solve the secret word.
Did you know that 99% of Canterbury's trade is by sea? Learn this and more on a free Lyttelton Port of Christchurch harbour cruise, offered once a month. Relax onboard and take in the sights of the port from the water. In one hour cruise you will learn about the port's various operational areas which are at the heart of international trade for Canterbury.
The cruise takes visitors alongside Cashin Quay and the container terminal where they can see the cranes and straddles at work. Other points of interest include the historic dry dock and the coal stockpile. An informative commentary is provided throughout the tour. Although the cruise is free we do ask that you consider making a gold coin donation, which goes to support Cholmondeley Children's Home. Over the Summer (Oct - May) the tours are on Tug Lyttelton and sail at 11am on the second Sunday of the month.
During the winter months (June - Sept) the tours are conducted on the Canterbury Cat and sail at 11am on the third Sunday of the month. Boarding takes place at the public ferry terminal, just off the Oxford Street over bridge in Lyttelton. Bookings are essential. To book a free public port tour, contact Lyttelton Port of Christchurch reception on 328-8198.
Our safe all-weather environment offers a fun, exciting and interactive experience of Antarctica.
Watch the snow fall in the four seasons room and have fun in our Snow & Ice Experience…at the Antarctic Attraction our aim is to re-create the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the "Great White South".
