Parks and gardens : Christchurch City Council

Christchurch is recognised as New Zealand’s garden city with over 1200 parks and gardens. From neighbourhood parks with family playgrounds to wilderness walks on the Port Hills you are never far from a place to play, relax or be adventurous.

Fires are banned in our parks, however, gas-fired barbeques are allowed. We also recommend that you don’t let off fireworks in our parks. For more details, please see our Parks and Reserves Bylaw.

People are asked to refrain from smoking or vaping in Council-owned playgrounds and parks per the Council's Smokefree and Vapefree Public Places Policy.

For a list of parks and reserves in the city, check out Find:Chch(external link), and make sure to check the mountain bike track status before you head out.

Accessible parks

Accessibility information for walking tracks, beaches, gardens and playgrounds.

BBQs and picnics

A number of parks have bookable picnic spaces, some with fixed BBQs nearby.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

From daffodils to roses to cosy conservatories, there's something to delight in every season.

Explore parks

Find a Christchurch park or walking track and begin exploring.

Gardens and heritage parks

There are picturesque gardens dotted around the Garden City which are well worth a visit.

Hagley Park

Hagley Park has been at the heart of Christchurch since the 1850s.

Learning programmes

Learning projects, programmes and resources for students, families and the community.

Park bookings and usage

Many of our parks have areas that can be booked for a picnic, event or other activities.

Play in parks

Enjoy one of Christchurch's many awesome playgrounds.

Regeneration areas

Developing former residential red zones to encourage people to visit and use these special areas.

Volunteer in parks

Make a difference, either on your own, with family, workmates, neighbours, or people like you.

Weddings

A variety of park wedding locations are available ranging from boutique to beachy.

Parks and gardens