Hagley Park and the Botanical Gardens

Set centrally within Hagley Park and adjacent to the City centre, the Botanic Gardens are fringed on the eastern side by the Neo-Gothic architecture of Christ's College, Canterbury Museum, and the Arts Centre. The Gardens were begun in 1850 along with the founding of the city of Christchurch.

The Gardens display the iconic Peacock Fountain, recently restored and repainted to its original and striking Edwardian era colours, a mass of exotic and tropical plants set in the inspiring architecture of Cuningham Glasshouse, and a gracious bridge arching over a mass of ducks, leading to a beautiful Band Rotunda. Close by at the Antigua Boat Shed, you can hire paddleboats and kayaks to enjoy the gardens from peaceful setting of the Avon.

The World Peace Bell, one of 21 in the world, was welcomed to the Botanic Gardens in 2005. A children’s pool and playground are a popular family weekend destination. Take a wander and you’ll come across the prim rose circles or the elegant rock garden, there are surprises around every corner.

In spring, Hagley Park is a riot of cherry blossom and daffodils, whilst in autumn mature introduced trees produce a mass of striking colours; in summer a walk through the gardens beside the river in search of an ice cream vendor proves irresistible, as does opportunities to attend free summer evening theatre or jazz, and in winter designated recreational areas buzz with thousands engaged in winter sport (especially on Saturday morning).

Events

As a city regularly engaged in festivals Hagley Park also plays host to popular favourites during the Summertime, such as the World Buskers Festival, the Teddy Bear's Picnic, Classical Sparks and Sunday Bandstand - join the locals and make the most of events which, for the largest events can attract a summer evening following of up to 30-50,000 people.

Featured Hagley Park Events

Lakes Festival 2026

Music Festivals Events
Hagley Park North, Christchurch

Monday 28 December 2026
Lakes Festival is live for 2026 - escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary in our beautiful Hagley Park on Monday 28th December 2026. Eat, Drink & Dance the day away with 10 hours of outstanding... More...

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Lexus Urban Polo - 2027

Equestrian Events
Hagley Park North, Christchurch

Saturday 20 February 2027
An Event Like No Other is returning to Christchurch! After another successful season, the F3 Polo Global Series 2026-2027 return to New Zealand, to Christchurch on February 20th to celebrate the 10th anniversary season... More...

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Sub Focus "Circular Sound"

Drum & Bass Events
Hagley Park North, Christchurch

Friday 9 April 2027
SUB FOCUS RETURNS TO NEW ZEALAND IN APRIL 2027 FOR CIRCULAR SOUND Audiology and George FM present.. SUB FOCUS “CIRCULAR SOUND” Friday 9th April Hagley Park, Christchurch 4:30PM - 10:30PM Saturday 10th... More...

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