Top Tips Free Summer Activities in Mid Canterbury
Free Summer Activities in Mid Canterbury
Moments That Don’t Cost a Thing
School holidays are the perfect time to relax with family, but keeping up with kids’ endless energy can be a challenge. This guide is full of free summer activities to keep everyone entertained without breaking the bank.
From laughing in paddling pools to strolling shaded tracks or cycling beside shimmering rivers, these simple joys bring people together. Hidden reserves, lakeside swims, heritage open days, and playful mini golf each carry their own charm. Some invite gentle exploration, others spark adventure, and all create memories of a summer well spent.
Stop by the Ashburton Domain
The Domain is located within walking distance from the Ashburton town centre and most of our schools. During summer months, you'll often find real fruit ice cream for sale - perfect for cooling down and relaxing in the stunning gardens.
And for the children you'll find our paddling pool, which is also open during the warmer months. The paddling pool is covered with a shade sail to protect from the summer sun. Next to the paddling pool is a small playground for pre-schoolers.
A wide range of sports are played at the domain, including cricket, football, bowls, tennis, hockey and croquet all being played.
Visit the Plains Railway & Historical Museum
Relive the pioneering Rail and Rural History years of Mid Canterbury at the Plains Railway & Historical Museum, complete with village buildings housing hundreds of exhibits; print works, market, cottage and much more.
View working stationary engines, vintage tractors and machinery and purchase a ticket to ride on their passenger service hauled by Steam Locomotive K88.
Their next Public Open Day is on 28 December, offering a brilliant budget friendly activity to enjoy during the holidays.
Swim at Lake Hood
During the heat of summer there's nothing better than jumping into a refreshing lake for a swim, and Lake Hood is the place to go if you're in Ashburton looking to cool down.
Whether your idea of evening and weekend relaxation is yachting, water-skiing, fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying a picnic bedside in the crystal clear, spring and river-fed waters, there’s something for everyone at Lake Hood.
If you're feeling peckish and forgot the picnic - there's also the popular Lake House restaurant within walking distance. The restaurant is one of Canterbury’s best-kept secrets, offering dining either indoors or outdoors near the shores of the lake.
