Arion Farm Education Park, on McLeans Island Road in Christchurch, is a New Zealand farm park run as part of the National Trade Academy, a land-based training provider. The website says the park focuses on animals farmed in New Zealand and the breeds found on New Zealand farms. It sits 1.6 km past Orana Park, about 10 minutes from the city. Visitors can buy a cup of animal feed at the entrance for a small fee, and feed and touch the animals. Pony rides are offered, and the website says the ponies suit children aged six and under. Older children can look at the Arion Riding Centre. The café is open 10am to 3pm every day, and there is a plant nursery on site.
Customers mention feeding the animals and pony rides most often, along with the pigs and bouncy castles. They say there are plenty of animals to pet, plenty of parking, and sitting spots for a picnic. One family said their kids loved it, and another said the staff were friendly and the animals looked well cared for. The website says visitors can bring their own food for a picnic or barbecue, and birthday parties can be held in the party hut. Our pick in Christchurch for a family morning with animals to feed.