Things to do  |  11 Feb 2022

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If you’re looking for some date ideas this weekend ahead of Valentines Day on 14 February then we’ve got you covered – from hot pools and bike rides to picnics and punting there is something for every pair out there.

He Puna Taimoana

Only 15 minutes from the city centre is He Puna Taimoana, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views while soaking in the five luxurious hot pools. You can also relax and recover in the plunge pool, steam room and experience beachside views from the sauna.

On Valentine’s Day they are offering a special romantic session between 8 – 10pm for $22 per person. Whether you’re celebrating valentines or galentines, sit back and relax while listening to Christchurch Acoustic duo Vintage Blues. Head to He Puna Taimoana’s website to book your spot.

Head to the Christchurch Adventure Park for some zip lining this weekend

Christchurch Adventure Park

If you and you’re valentine are looking for some action packed fun this weekend then look no further than Christchurch’s Adventure Park. Combine a real rush of adrenalin with great views by taking on New Zealand’s highest (at 150 metres) and longest (just over 1 kilometre) zip line. Get in that competitive spirit and try the dual zip lines, to race your partner and see who can win. There is also mountain biking, free walking tracks, a chairlift to take in the views and the Adventure Park café. To view prices and opening times, check out Christchurch Adventure parks website.

Bike ride at Bottle Lake Forest

If beaches aren’t your thing, you may want to take your loved one to one of Christchurch’s beautiful forests. Bottle Lake Forest is 1000 hectares of pine plantation forest located about 10 km north-east of the city. Perfect for all ages, this accessible recreation park is a great place for mountain biking or walking, as it has mostly flat trails.

The most popular starting point for Bottle Lake Forest is the main car park off Waitikiri Drive, off Burwood Road, via either Marshlands or Burwood. You can also reach the park on foot from Spencer Park and from North Shore along the Southern Pegasus Bay track. 

To check your route, and how to access walk, mountain-bike tracks and horse-riding tracks, check out the map on our website.

The visitor centre, located at the Waitikiri Drive entrance, has track maps, brochures and displays about the park's history and ecology.

Take a picnic down to Cass Bay this weekend

Picnic at the beach

If the weather clears this weekend then there’s nothing better than grabbing some fish and chips to take down to your local beach. One of our favourite local spots is Cass Bay in Lyttelton, located on Bay View Place just off Lyttelton Harbour Road.

Cass Bay is connected to Magazine Bay and Corsair Bay beaches via the Costal Pathway. Go for a stroll between each bay and take in the spectacular views of Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour, Ōtamahua/Quail Island and Charteris Bay.

For other spots around Christchurch that are perfect for a romantic picnic for two or a summer evening stroll head to Corsair Bay, Sumner Beach or Waimairi Beach!

Ghostlight film series at the Isaac Royal Theatre

With the weather not looking too flash this weekend, why not head inside and check out the Isaac Royal Theatre’s film offerings. From all-time classics and action to sing-a-longs and chick-flicks, there is something for everyone!

They are kicking the weekend off with a 7.30pm viewing on Friday night of Pulp Fiction and ending Valentine’s Day with cult classic Romeo & Juliet at 7pm on Monday. With Pretty Woman, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Pirates of the Caribbean and the Greatest Showman in between, make sure you don’t miss out and book your tickets here.

Punting on the Avon

If you’re looking for something a little bit different this Valentine’s Day why not try the pop-up punt performance at Antigua Boat sheds.

Bring your special someone along for a 40-minute evening punt ride featuring a 20minute live musical performance of classic love songs by performer John Bayne. The performance rides will be departing from the Antigua Boat Sheds at 5:30pm and 6:30pm on Monday 14 February.

Bookings are essential and tickets are limited. Find out more.