The Southern Centre

Welcome to The Southern Centre, located at 75 Lyttelton Street in Christchurch, New Zealand. Our establishment is a unique multi-sensory environment that offers an immersive experience for people of all ages and abilities. Through the use of innovative lighting and sound technology, we aim to stimulate your senses and provide a space for learning, exploration, and creativity.

At The Southern Centre, we understand the importance of reducing stress levels and developing social skills. That is why our facility is designed to cater to the needs of each individual, empowering you to choose your own environment, make changes, and control your leisure time. Interact with our state-of-the-art equipment such as the smell machine, bubble column, and shadow wall, all aimed at stimulating your senses through smell, touch, light, and sound.

While The Southern Centre is open to everyone, it is especially beneficial for adults and children with learning differences, cerebral palsy, autism, multiple disabilities, anxiety, or stress-related problems. We believe in creating an inclusive space where everyone can feel welcome and supported.

To reach The Southern Centre, you can take buses 60, 1, 44, or the Orbiter. We are located upstairs at Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre, and there is an elevator near the doors through to the gym and back carpark for your convenience.

If you are looking for a unique experience, consider hosting a birthday party at The Southern Centre. Our sensory sessions with a birthday theme and personalized messages are sure to make your celebration memorable. These sessions last for 30 minutes and can accommodate groups of up to 12 participants (excluding caregivers).

The Southern Centre is a partnership between the Christchurch City Council and the Canterbury Multi-Sensory Trust. The council manages the daily operations of the facility, including staffing and general building requirements, while the trust is responsible for sourcing funding for specialized equipment and its maintenance.

Originating in the Netherlands in the late 1970s, multi-sensory rooms have evolved over the years, and The Southern Centre represents a dynamic version of these early rooms. Our commitment to innovation and creativity has earned us international recognition, including the prestigious World Leisure Award for Innovation and Excellence.

Previously located at QEII Recreation and Sport Centre, The Southern Centre was relocated to its current location at Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre after the February 2011 earthquake. We are proud to be a part of Christchurch Recreation and Sport, an organization that embraces diversity and believes in providing equal opportunities and access to recreation, sport, and leisure facilities.

In addition to The Southern Centre, Christchurch Recreation and Sport Centres offer various other activities and amenities. From sensory swimming sessions in a calming and supportive environment to mixed ability mind and body exercise classes, there is something for everyone. We also host fun and active birthday parties at Taiora QEII, Pioneer, Cowles Stadium, Graham Condon, or Te Pou Toetoe Linwood Pool. For babies and preschoolers, Tumbletimes provides a safe and social environment to explore physical capabilities.

If you're looking for a game or sport, our Recreation and Sport Centres offer badminton, basketball, and pickleball sessions. Whether you prefer playing individually or as a team, there is always an opportunity to stay active and have fun.

Come and experience the excitement of The Southern Centre and all that Christchurch Recreation and Sport has to offer. We guarantee you'll be hooked!