Perfectly timed for the school holidays and with lots of family and kid friendly options included, the annual Breeze Walking Festival kicks off very soon.
With over 50 walks to choose from there is something for all ages and abilities.
From child-friendly strolls and energetic treks, to informative ambles through the central city, the organisers have catered for all interests and ages.
The various events cover Christchurch, Waimakariri and Selwyn District, so no matter where you are or where you would like to explore, there are plenty of options. The walks have been designed to appeal to those wanting to embrace nature, culture, the arts, history and new developments around our city.
If you don’t live in Christchurch, check out in particular the inner city walks that will give you some insights into the new CBD – exploring the changes that have taken place over the last eight years.
The full programme of events can be found here but we have included some of the highlights below to give you a taste of what’s on offer.
Most of the events are free and they are also marked to indicate if they are child or family friendly. Note that some of the events do require you to book in advance that you will be participating.
Discover Your Emerging South Frame on Foot, 29 September, 11am to 12.30pm
Explore the newly emerging South Frame on foot, including all four of the new gathering places dotted along Te Ara Pū Hā: The South Frame.
From Kahikatea Common at the Health Precinct end. Take away a scavenger hunt created by kids for kids, which you can use to help share your newly learned stories about this walk.
Meet on footpath near Wilsons Carpark, 96 Tuam Street, Christchurch Central
Postponement date: Sunday 30 September 2018.
Grade: Easy – flat terrain 30 to 60 minutes.
Suitable for: Children in pushchairs/buggies and people using wheelchairs.
Can cater for dogs (on a leash at all times).
Bookings required: Call 03 357 6300.
Dogs Day Out, Ferrymead Heritage Park, 30 September, 10.30am – 2.30pm
This will be a great day for families, children and the household dog/s! Combine a guided scenic walk with all the fun activities Ferrymead has to offer, including tram rides, free micro chipping for Christchurch registered dogs, and lots of treats for dog lovers of all ages.
Bring your own picnic, and light refreshments will also be for sale.
Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
Meet at the Ferrymead car park (first right off Ferrymead Park Drive, off Bridle Path Road, Heathcote).
Grade: Easy to flat terrain, 30 to 60 minutes.
Pre-schoolers are free. Children aged 16 years and under $2, adults $5 (please bring cash, no eftpos available). No bookings required.
Cancelled if wet.
Hidden Gems – Discover Otautahi City Centre, 30 September, 1 October, 6 October
This is a great one to enjoy, especially if you haven’t spent a lot of time exploring the new inner city of Christchurch.
Travelling by foot, weave through the central city exploring and learning as you go. We will share tales of the old, the new and the bold and bring to life many of our hometown’s hidden secrets.
Time of day: 1pm – 2.30pm on Sunday September 30, 9.30am – 11am on October 1 and 6.
Postponement: Cancelled if raining.
Grade: Easy – flat terrain 30 to 60 minutes.
Suitable for: Children in pushchairs/buggies and people using wheelchairs.
Starts from the Godley Statue in Cathedral Square.
Going on a Bear Hunt, October 2, 1 – 2pm and 2 – 3pm, Walter Park Playground, Hills Road, Mairehau
Bring the children down to the park for a swishy swashy, splashy, sploshy, squelchy, muddy, experience. Great outing for the younger walkers and their families. Gumboots essential.
Grade: Easy – flat terrain 30 to 60 minutes.
Suitable for: Children in pushchairs/buggies and people using wheelchairs.
Cancelled if wet.
Dunes at Dawn October 6, 6.30am – 7.30am
Join your fellow walkers for a stunning walk watching the sunrise over New Brighton Beach.
Heading north along the dunes and back along the beach, watch the sunrise over the sea with stunning views of the Kaikoura ranges, Brighton Pier and the Port Hills!
Why not arrange to finish your walk with brunch at the Beach Cafe or Salt cafe at the Pier.
Postponement date: Cancelled if raining.
Grade: Easy – medium, mixed terrain one to two hours.
Can cater for dogs (on a leash at all times).
Meet at New Brighton Clock Tower, Marine Parade.
