Go for a skate in Christchurch’s city centre

A state-of-the-art ice rink which offers almost the same gliding capacity as natural ice is being set up in Christchurch’s city centre as preparations get under way for Chill in the City.

Organised by the Central City Business Association (CCBA), Chill in in the City Ice rink is being set up on the corner on High and Cashel Street and will be open from Thursday 30 July until Sunday 2 August.

At The Terrace end of City Mall, people will also be able to ride the Hagglund, get a selfie with Huskies or have a go at tobogganing. 

“We want people to get together with their mates or their families and come into the central city and have some winter fun,’’ says CCBA Manager Paul Lonsdale.

“We’ve lined up some great mid-winter activities that people can enjoy with Ice Skating, Hagglund Rides, selfies with the Huskies and even bringing in some snow for tobogganing.

“The first hour of parking in Christchurch City Council’s Lichfield Street and Art Gallery parking buildings is free so come into town, check out the activities, and enjoy the great shops, bars, cafes and restaurants that we’ve got,’’ Mr Lonsdale says.

The ice skating costs $5 for a half hour session while a gold coin donation will be requested for the Hagglund rides and selfies with the Huskies. All the money raised will go to the City Mission.

Helmets and gloves are essential for the ice skating. Some will be available at the rink, but it is recommend your bring your own.