Park & nature
Margaret Mahy Family Playground
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The Margaret Mahy Family Playground is a vibrant, award-winning playground located in the heart of Christchurch, New Zealand. Opened in 2015 as part of the city's post-earthquake rebuild, it honors the late Margaret Mahy, a renowned local children's author. The playground spans over 3.5 acres and is designed to spark creativity and adventure for children of all ages. Visitors will find a giant 30-meter-long slide, a flying fox (zip line), a trampoline, a sandpit with diggers, and water play features that are especially popular in warmer months. The playground is divided into zones for different age groups, ensuring safety and fun for toddlers to teenagers. Surrounded by the Avon River and mature trees, it offers shaded seating areas for parents and caregivers. Its central location makes it a perfect stop for families exploring the city, and it's free to use, encouraging repeat visits. The playground's inclusive design includes wheelchair-accessible equipment and sensory play elements, making it a welcoming space for all children.
Don't miss
- Ride the giant 30-meter-long slide, one of the longest in New Zealand.
- Zoom across the flying fox (zip line) over the playground.
- Splash in the interactive water play area with fountains and channels.
- Explore the themed play zones, including a pirate ship and castle.
- Relax in the landscaped gardens with picnic tables and river views.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Margaret Mahy Family Playground
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Margaret Mahy Family Playground with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inWillowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry4.5★ · 114 travelers1–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$22 per personSee dates →
Most bookedChristchurch Zipline Tour4.9★ · 285 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$130 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Open 24 hours daily, but best visited during daylight hours.
- Bring sunscreen and hats in summer; water play areas can get crowded.
- No on-site café, but nearby cafes and food trucks are a short walk away.
- Public restrooms are available adjacent to the playground.
A bit of history
The playground was built on the site of the former Christchurch Central Fire Station, which was demolished after the 2011 earthquake. It opened in December 2015, named after Margaret Mahy, a Christchurch author who wrote over 100 children's books and won the Hans Christian Andersen Award.
Common questions
Is the playground suitable for toddlers?
Yes, there is a dedicated toddler zone with smaller slides, soft surfaces, and age-appropriate equipment.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted within the playground area, but they are allowed on leads in the surrounding park.
Is there parking nearby?
Limited street parking is available on Armagh Street and surrounding roads. A paid parking lot is located a few blocks away.
Can we have birthday parties here?
Yes, the playground is a popular spot for parties. You can reserve a picnic table or use the open spaces, but no formal booking is required.
Is the water play area open year-round?
The water play features are typically turned on from October to March, depending on weather. They are turned off during colder months.
What makes this playground unique?
Its size, imaginative design inspired by Margaret Mahy's stories, and inclusive features make it one of New Zealand's best playgrounds.
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