A neighbourhood playground in the Richmond suburb of Christchurch, rated 3.8 from 10 Google reviews, Richmond Playground is described by locals as small but well equipped, with a climbing tower, slides and swings that suit children from about five to ten.
Playgrounds live or die on the fit between equipment and age: a tall climbing structure thrills a nine-year-old but can leave toddlers with little to do, so it pays to check what's actually there before promising a big outing. Neighbourhood playgrounds like this one are rarely all-day destinations — regulars treat them as a quick energy burn between errands, or a reward on the walk home from school. In Christchurch's summer sun, a hat and a drink bottle make any playground stop easier.
Handy if you're in the area, Richmond Playground does what a local park should: gives the kids somewhere to climb, slide and run.