It’s a great time to take your family to explore some of the best spots for making the most of spring in Christchurch City now that the weather is warmer.

These places have been tested and approved by local children and teenagers. So all you need to do is pack a picnic and head off for an adventure.

Wander the blossom pathway in the Sister Cities Garden at Halswell Quarry - close to the Findlay Picnic Area. You will also find lots of hidden play spaces if you let children go wild and explore – from hills to roll down, cliffs to climb and creeks to splash in.

Visit the daffodil lawns at the Hagley Park Woodland. Did you know that many of these bulbs date back to the 1930’s when they were planted by Christchurch locals? Follow the paths to find interesting places to explore, kick a ball or throw a frisbee in Hagley Park or the nearby Botanic Gardens.

Spot ducklings and have fun fishing at The Groynes. The small lakes provide great trout fishing opportunities for children year-round and a license for Under 12s is free from Fish & Game NZ. There are playgrounds (even a flying fox!) and lots of space to play ball games.

Explore the new Te Kuru stormwater basin and wetlands area in Hoon Hay. Newly planted, with extensive walkways and the ability to get up close to see what is in the Cashmere Stream, it is a fantastic spot for all ages to enjoy. You will pass baby animals in the neighbouring farms in you park in the carpark off Cashmere Road.

Look for the many birds and creatures found in the estuary along the Estuary Edge Walk in South New Brighton. The shoreline is a great place for families to explore and play, particularly in spring. There is also a destination playground at the domain if you head off from that starting point.

Selwyn District Council is celebrating CultureFest with some fun active events this year.

Pool admission applies - otherwise sessions are $5 per person.

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Here are some snippets on the latest physical activity research or news that we found interesting.

Winning in sport is about a lot more than just the scoreboard for young people - according to Sport New Zealand’s recent Voice of Rangatahi survey.

New research says regular exercise can help slow the progression to Alzheimer's disease as well as improve the heart and brain.

ExerciseNZ has endorsed new research which shows physical activity and good sleep work together to counter negative health effects of poor sleep.

Read more Active Canterbury news.

The Active Canterbury Newsletter is produced bi-monthly and aims to keep local physical activity providers informed. It has a focus on latest physical activity research, upcoming education and training opportunities, key events and tips on how to practically apply research and industry tools.

View the latest newsletter: AC Network Newsletter November-December 2022

Access previous editions of the newsletter.