The Arts Centre for me is the perfect place to take my family on a trip to Christchurch. I have a strict list for destinations when taking my toddler into a new place; ice-cream (maybe that’s for me), spaces to run, places to be noisy, things to look at, mākete (markets) and an array of events so, The Arts Centre ticks all the boxes and then some.
I love to know I can hang outside, wander the halls and see her face notice all the different little spaces to hide away in and discover. With direct flights and a beautiful drive to get to Christchurch it’s a no brainer for a long weekend or holiday trip.
The Arts Centre has a massive array of places to eat (my toddler doesn’t stop) that are child and dog friendly (Bunsen alert!)
Bunsen, Rollickin Gelato, The Rolling Om, Zen Sushi and Dumplings. There’s also the new Cellar Door where you can sit outside AND there’s a huge grassy space for them to run around while you quaff bites and a little wine on the side. They really do think of everything.
To get their eyes feasting on all the shops to wander they’re going to love to pick out something new for school at Pepa Stationary (and let’s be honest you’ll want a new pencil case for work meetings), Frances Nation for a gorgeous NZ made product to take back home with you, Skin Space has a wonderful array of products that won’t harm their delicate skin (and I found delicious sun cream while I was wandering and forgot mine!). The Fudge Cottage because come on people, everyone loves fudge.
The Arts Centre Mākete is on every Sunday and local artists, crafts, handmade goods are all on display. From 10-4 your wee one will absolutely love to chomp on a delicacy and wander the stalls. Let’s be honest hopefully they’ll buy you something for being a legend.
Rutherford’s Den is what it says on the tin; a whole world of science, history and wonder to explore with your whānau. Remember those days of wandering museums as a small person yourself? Well this is NOTHING LIKE THAT. An absolute destination for all things hands on and discovery. They’re going to love it.
Image provided by The Arts Centre
The Pumanawa exhibition space often displays community artists and as we know the connection to art and creativity for children and young people, is vital to their connection to where they live.
There’s also the Autumn school holidays coming up and there’s a heap of activities on to satisfy all tastes. Arts, crafts, science, doll-making, spoon-carving, dancing, fudge-making, music, archaeology, trampolining LET ME AT IT!
Image provided by The Arts Centre
If you’re wanting to keep the small ones outside though, fear not! The amount of outdoor space is testament to the thought that has gone into this rebuild. The ability to just sit. And stare and breathe is palpable. So much thought has gone into the fact that they want people to stay, settle, sip and surround themselves in all that is there for the taking. It’s not a one-day experience as you’ll go back and every time find another nook and cranny to delve into.
Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre
2 Worcester Boulevard
Christchurch
New Zealand
I worked with The Arts Centre because I love what they’re doing and think you will too
