Getting out and about with kids can feel tricky. However, there are places you can go that will suit the kids and not leave you compromising on the quality of your lunch or coffee. We've put together four of our tried and trusted places so you can try something new next time you are looking for your coffee fix. Please note, that not all these of these cafes have baby change facilities, but they do have clean toilets with space you can lay down your changing mat without feeling anxious.
29 London Street Lyttelton | lytteltoninfocentre.nz/lyttelton-coffee-company
If you fancy heading away from the central city, The Lyttelton Coffee Company is well worth a visit. With plenty of seating choices - on the street to people watch, inside where all the action happens, or out on the back deck.
We usually head straight for the back deck to watch the lively port action and laugh at the seagulls who keep everyone entertained.
You’ll enjoy the coffee and food and they will enjoy the toy box - we’ve spent many a happy afternoon here!
Top Tip: If you can brave the crowds, the Saturday morning farmers market on London Street makes for a lovely outing before settling down to lunch. After you have eaten, you may like to wander around to the marina where we enjoy picking out our favourite boats!
Rhodes Road, Tai Tapu | raspberrycafe.co.nz
The Raspberry Cafe pride’s itself on offering homemade, delicious and satisfying food in a beautiful and relaxing setting.
Their cakes are 'world famous' in Tai Tapu and it’s worth a visit just to see their amazing cake selection. They offer a brunch/lunch menu and have great coffee as well as local wines and other drink options.
With a kids playground and plenty of space for them to run around - you might even get a few minutes peace and quiet to savour your lunch.
Top Tip: We love to grab some some punnets of fruit to take home with us., so if you are visiting in berry season make sure you pop into their onsite shop.
5 Disraeli Street, Addington, Christchurch | oddfellowscafe.co.nz
With plenty of space for a pram, lovely helpful staff and delicious food and coffee, this is a cafe I have returned too many times. We like sitting outside in the little courtyard but if the weather isn’t playing ball the inside is very pleasant too. Specialising in Brunch, but with a mixture of cabinet food and an a la carte menu you should be able to find something for everyone. We love that they also do a yummy kids french toast.
Top Tip: If the cafe car park is full, try the overflow car parking a little further down Disraeli Street. It's clearly sign-posted but still easy to miss if you don't know to look out for it!
132 Victoria Street, Christchurch | vicscafe.co.nz | vicsbakehouse.co.nz
Whenever I'm in this part of town I stop at Vic's for a coffee, lunch and some bread to take home. With friendly staff, plenty of space both inside and outside, baby change facilities, and delicious food and coffee, you won't be disappointed.
Vic's have a large range of delicious artisan breads that they make in their Ferrymead bakehouse (just around the corner from the studio) and the rest of their food is made on site. They have lots of breakfast and lunch options, with a menu and cabinet food.. Their sweet treats always, hit the spot; but I'm also quite partial to their savoury scones and muffins.
Top Tip: It's worth keeping an eye on Vic's Facebook page, as sometimes they offer baking classes for those wanting to improve their 'at home' repertoire.
96 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch | riverside.nz
Lots of see, lots to choose from. Riverside is a hub of small, local Artisan businesses. A ‘micro-community of merchants’ specialising in lunch options, pantry goods, fresh produce and lots more.
You will be able to find something to cater to all members of your family here - Even I can find something for my fussy little people. There is cuisine from all around the world as well as simple food that kids will love. You’ll find great coffee and some lovely sweet treats too.
Top Tip: Combine your visit with a ride on the tram, have a wander around the Botanical gardens and playground; or head to the Margaret Mahy playground to extend lunch into a lovely day out for the whole family.
We plan to keep adding to this list - so if you have a favourite place to go, add it to the comments and we will check it out!
📷 Photos supplied by the cafe or cafe visitors