Junior Keepers feeding a lemur
Here at Willowbank, we love kids. We do, however, understand that it can be difficult to keep your kids busy and entertained, especially near the end of the summer holidays. Looking for something to fill the last long afternoons of summer? We’re one of the best things to do with kids in Christchurch.
Just about any activity that involves animals is bound to be a hit with the younger set, and Willowbank is no exception. Our park has been designed especially to be as engaging and educational (they won’t even notice- we promise!) as possible. Our ‘Heritage New Zealand’ area lets kids interact with the animals that make up our agricultural heritage, and the ’Natural New Zealand’ section introduces kids to some of New Zealand’s coolest looking native species. Kids love exploring our grounds, petting our friendly kunekune pigs and watching the capuchins play on Monkey Island.
We also cater to children’s functions. Birthday parties are made easy at Willowbank—just bring the kids and we’ll provide the food and the fun. Your guests will love spending the afternoon with our animals. Of course, it doesn’t have to be a special occasion for an afternoon at Willowbank to be, well, special. We run a number of children’s programmes over the weekends and holidays. Between the donkey rides, animal feeding times and lemur encounters, you may have to visit more than once.
Over the summer holidays we also hold a very popular Junior Keeper programme, where kids aged 10-14 get some first-hand experience taking care of our animals. Our junior keepers get to spend a memorable day feeding the lemurs and gibbons, while Mum and Dad get a day of rest.
Visitors to the area love to bring their families to Willowbank—a Christchurch tourist attraction that the whole family can enjoy. And if you’re new to New Zealand, there’s no better place to get a full-blown introduction to everything that makes this country special. Check out our Ko Tane cultural tour for a unique look at Maori customs and culture that will captivate the whole family.
So whether you’re a local looking for new things to do with kids or a visitor seeking out the best South Island attraction, Willowbank is the perfect adventure.
