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The following links will give you information on places to get active or suitable locations for your favourite activities.
Always check the weather forecast as well as any weather watches and warnings for your region. Also check the mountain and rural forecasts - as the weather can be different from the local urban environment.
The sun can cause dehydration, sunstroke and sunburn. You may not always feel hot in the mountains or bush, but ensure you always wear sunscreen (even on overcast days), wear a hat and sunglasses, and cover your body.
- Check if the local surf patrol will be on duty.
- Stay between the flags at the beach.
- Know how to float, and if in doubt, stay out.
Learn how to stay safe in and around the water (Water Safety NZ). - Check the water quality conditions on the LAWA website.
- Learn river safety skills including how to cross safely (Mountain Safety Council NZ).
Prepare for all possible conditions by taking the right equipment, clothing and having backup plans if conditions change. Also prepare in case you end up with an extended stay or sleeping overnight outdoors.
- Wind can be far more dangerous than rain especially in exposed places or on high ridges.
- Snow can fall at any time of year, particularly in the South Island. If there is significant snow around, only proceed if you are carrying crampons and an ice axe and have the experience to use them in the case of a fall. Be sure to check the NZ Avalanche Advisory before leaving.
- Rain affects river levels and makes tracks more slippery. It also contributes significantly to landslides, so proceed with caution.
There are many local venues and locations where you can take part in or host physical activity related opportunities. This includes recreation centres and community halls.
- Fitness Centres in the Greater Christchurch area (CINCH).
- Selwyn District Council recreation and sports facilities.
- Meeting venues and community halls available for use in the Selwyn District.
- Waimakariri District Council recreation and sports facilities - including MainPower Stadium.
- Meeting venues and community halls available for use in the Waimakariri District.
- Meeting venues and community halls available for use in the Hurunui District.
- Recreational facilities in the Kaikōura District.
- Community facilities in the Kaikōura District.
Children learn through play. Childhood experiences with nature are important for determining life attitudes, knowledge and behaviours towards the environment.
You need to experience nature to understand and value it – and getting dirty is part of the fun!
- Check out nature play options for kids in Christchurch (Christchurch City Council).
- Find out about the Te Kohanga Taiao Sensory Nature Play Park in the Christchurch Red Zone (Christchurch City Council).
- Find reserves and places to play in nature in the Selwyn District.
- Discover outdoor activities in the Waimakariri District.
Bring your preschoolers along to Bots Tots for gardening and nature-themed activities during term time by the Canterbury Horticultural Society.
The Southern Centre is a multi-sensory environment for people of all ages and abilities which helps reduce stress levels and develop social skills.
The Centre is suitable everyone and most benefits adults and children who have learning differences, cerebral palsy, autism, multiple disabilities, or anxiety or stress-related problems.
Discounted entry available to Hāpai Access, KiwiAble Leisure, Community Services or SuperGold cardholders.
Bookings are essential to avoid disappointment!
Learn more about the Southern Centre: Multi-Sensory Experience at the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre.
Sensory Swimming sessions are also held at the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre.