Ready, set, play! Exploring our city's playgrounds
Christchurch City Council Newsline: 13th July 2026
Get the kids outside these school holidays and check out some of the great playgrounds around the city.
QEII Playground
Since it opened earlier this year, this play space has been a big hit with the local tamariki! Designed with a nod to the areas Commonwealth Games history, the park has a running track complete with a winner's podium.
There's a giant climbing frame, a nature play area, a sandpit equipped with a digger, musical instruments and toddler swings, making this playground perfect for all ages.
Location: Behind Ascot Hub - 12 Ascot Avenue in North New Brighton.
Halifax Reserve - Bishopdale
Climb up the timber ramp into the tree house and let your imagination take hold!
There are swings, logs to climb over and a wooden fortress, drive the wheel, are you on a pirate ship or driving a fire truck?
This is a beautiful community park in a quiet street.
Location: Halifax Lane in Bishopdale.
Cass Bay
Overlooking the beautiful bay the playground has a big umbrella covering tables making it the perfect spot for a picnic.
The kids will be kept busy playing on the big wooden fort, clambering up the hill before sliding back down again, and getting their speed up on the flying fox.
Keep an eye out for a friendly fantail who has claimed the park as their favourite new hang out spot.
Cross Reserve - Philipstown
Ride on a bumble bee ride on, beat your friend down the racing slides, swing on the monkey bars before climbing up the net.
This is a lovely community park surrounded with mature trees and picnic tables with a snakes and ladders board. Just make sure you bring your own dice and markers.
Location: Corner of Cross Street and Nursery Road in Philipstown.
Avon Park – Avonside
Take a ride on the giant pendulum swing, explore the gardens by traversing the wooden planks through the plants, have a game of basketball overlooking a beautiful green planted field or swing to your hearts content. This park has something for everyone.
Make a day of it and cycle part of the Avon Loop before stopping at the park for a picnic.
Location: Avonside Drive in Avonside.