Christchurch Picnic Spots for Spring: Your Guide to Local Hidden Gems
When spring arrives in Christchurch, the call to escape the crowds and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature is irresistible. Whether it’s a quiet riverside lunch or a family-friendly afternoon outdoors, the Garden City is home to several overlooked gems where you can spread out your blanket and soak up the fresh air, all just a short drive from the city centre.
View our “Christchurch Picnic Spots” list on Google Maps
Riccarton Bush
Picnic Amid Ancient Native Forest
Riccarton Bush offers a rare slice of native forest in the heart of Christchurch. Visitors can enjoy picnic spots in the open grassy areas adjoining the bush, with the added charm of native bird calls from tūī and bellbirds. The grounds are well-maintained, and there is the bonus of a bustling Saturday morning market nearby with fresh and hot food options, a perfect start to any picnic outing.
Learn more about Riccarton Bush
Abberley Park
Quiet Gardens and Family-Friendly Spaces
This tranquil park tucked away in St Albans features lovely gardens, accessible lawns, picnic tables, and a playground for the kids. November is an ideal time to visit when the roses are blooming beautifully. Abberley Park is particularly praised for its peaceful atmosphere, ample seating, and family-friendly facilities, including restrooms and accessible paths.
Learn more about Abberley Park
The Groynes
Lakeside Spot for Family Fun and Relaxation
The Groynes is a favourite among locals for picnics and outdoor activities. Plenty of picnic tables and BBQ facilities dot the lakeside parkland, offering scenic views and ample space for families and groups to gather. The park also features playgrounds, walking tracks, and fishing spots, making it a versatile option for a full day outdoors. The area is well kept and easy to access by car, though supervision near the water is advised for young children.
Michal Klajban, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Victoria Park
Scenic Views and Hidden Picnic Nooks
For elevated views across Christchurch and beyond, Victoria Park offers quiet picnic spots tucked away from the main trails. It’s a top choice for those seeking breathtaking scenery paired with a bit of peace and quiet. The winds here make it perfect for flying a kite with the kids or enjoying a brisk spring walk followed by a relaxed lunch.
Learn more about Victoria Park
Quarry Park
Rolling Hills, Tracks, and Spring Blooms
Located in Halswell, Quarry Park offers sweeping views over the city along with diverse walking and cycling tracks through its restored quarry landscape. Spring brings bursts of colour from wildflowers and native plantings, making it a picturesque setting for a picnic. Flat grassy areas and sheltered spots provide options for both larger gatherings and quiet lunch breaks, while the network of trails is perfect for stretching your legs before or after eating.
Barnett Park
Open Green Spaces and Bush Walks by the Estuary
Open Green Spaces and Bush Walks by the Estuary
Barnett Park near Redcliffs combines broad open lawns with native bush walks and stunning estuary views. It’s ideal for a picnic that’s part outdoor adventure, with plenty of room for kids to run and explore, as well as sheltered spots perfect for a laidback lunch or afternoon tea.
Little Hagley Park
Open Green Space by the Avon
Nestled alongside the Avon River, Little Hagley Park is a quiet, grassy retreat on the edge of the city centre. The peaceful lawns and shade from mature trees make it ideal for a relaxing picnic with family or friends, especially when the spring blossoms are out in force. While facilities are minimal, its charm lies in the simple pleasures, open space to spread a blanket and plenty of leafy scenery to enjoy a laidback lunch or an afternoon break away from the bustle.
Learn more about Little Hagley Park
Spencer Park
Coastal Picnic with a Beachside Twist
Spencer Park offers shaded picnic tables, BBQ facilities, and coastal pine walks near the beach. It is ideal for combining a seaside stroll or swim with a relaxed outdoor lunch. Kids can enjoy the playground while adults unwind with the sound of surf and birdcalls in the background.
Offbeat Picks: Dallington Landing & Te Rauakaaka
For a unique family picnic experience, Dallington Landing in the Red Zone features painted road stencils and a safe place for kids to play alongside a relaxed picnic atmosphere. Meanwhile, Te Rauakaaka in the Waimakariri River Regional Park offers riverside tables and quiet wetland trails for nature lovers keen to watch birds and enjoy peaceful surroundings
Learn more about Dallington Landing
Discovering these hidden Christchurch picnic spots this spring means enjoying the city’s natural beauty away from the crowds. Pack your basket, load up the car, and find your own peaceful patch in the Garden City this November.
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