2 of the best free activities in Christchurch

Christchurch is a place filled with so much to see and do that no matter how long you spend here you'll wish you had more time. When you visit the South Island's premier city you can enjoy virtually every kind of holiday, from hiking adventures to beachside relaxation and cultural activities to food and wine heaven.

There are also a plethora of free activities on offer throughout the city, which can make planning that family holiday a little easier.

Here are some of our favourite free activities in the Garden City.

Visit the Botanic Gardens in Hagley Park

The botanic gardens in the iconic Hagley Park are perfect for a fun-filled family day out. Kids will love the expansive play area and paddling pool, while parents will enjoy wandering around the vast collection of colourful and exotic plants and flowers. Treat yourself to some lunch at Ilex Cafe in the modern visitor centre and have a look at the large collection of New Zealand and international art dotted throughout the gardens.

Open from 7 a.m. every day, there's no better place to be when the sun is shining in Christchurch than the Botanic Gardens.

The Air Force Museum of New Zealand

You don't need to be a military or aeroplane nerd to enjoy the extensive collection of military aircraft, engines, medals, pin-ups and other wartime memorabilia housed at the Air Force Museum. The highlight of the museum is definitely the collection of 28 full-sized classic aircraft.

The Air Force Museum is located on the site of the former RNZAF Base Wigram, just 15 minutes drive from the city and is open seven days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you wish to learn more about the fascinating objects in the museum you can take a guided tour for a small charge, which really adds to the experience.