21 Dec 2018

Park up the car and unpack the chilly bin as you discover the best places to spread your picnic rug this summer.

From Scarborough Park to The Groynes, Christchurch is home to lots of great spots for barbecues and picnics so set aside some time these holidays for an al fresco feast.

For a sheltered spot under leafy trees, close to waterways with plenty of fishing and recreational opportunities, you cannot drive past The Groynes. With seven spots open for picnic bookings, along with a barbecue, walking tracks and a dog park, The Groynes provides a popular summer backdrop.

For a more sporting day out, try nearby Ouruhia Reserve. With plenty of space for games, a play area and an undercover barbecue, Ouruhia is the perfect spot for all the family. Further afield, you can also check out popular Spencer Park.

For a more central picnic, try Hagley Park. Both the north and south sections have barbecue sites.

Other good options for al fresco dining include Barnett Park in Redcliffs, Scarborough Park in Sumner and South New Brighton Park.

The barbecues at Barnett Park cannot be booked but there is a picnic space you can book if you want to get the whole clan together for a relaxed picnic in the park.

The Scarborough Park playground has recently undergone a major upgrade, complete with a new mouse wheel, an innovative eagle’s lair climbing net with baskets, a dancing snake rope swing, a 5.8-metre climbing tower and a fresh take on the classic rocking horse.  The park also features a very popular paddling pool so it's a great place to picnic with children.

South New Brighton Park is also a great family picnic spot. The kids can explore the estuary or burn off energy in the playground with its seven-metre high climbing tower that offers great views of the park, the estuary and the Port Hills.