Telling Tales












Monday9:00 am – 5:30 pm.
Tuesday9:00 am – 5:30 pm.
Wednesday9:00 am – 5:30 pm.
Thursday9:00 am – 5:30 pm.
Friday9:00 am – 5:30 pm.
Saturday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Sunday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Igniting the love of reading in children is a magical gift and one that Telling Tales know plenty about. Since opening their doors in September 2021, they have been planting the joy of reading into the minds of children all across the Garden City.
Telling Tales is a magnificent bookshop; unsurprising given it is the brainchild of the iconic Scorpio Books which resides in the same courtyard just a stone’s throw away. Once you step inside, you’ll see row upon row of delectable books sitting handsomely in the most comprehensive and largest children’s bookshop for miles around. They have created a glorious space for children (and adults) to stretch out and pore over their curated list of titles. Snuggle into the comfy couch with The Very Hunger Caterpillar, peruse the books and appreciate the wonder.
The bookshop has been designed to spark imagination and delight. A centrepiece tree stands proudly amongst the picture books and those with a keen eye will notice the leaves changing with the seasons. Expert recommendations are on hand - the team understands that no two reads are the same and will impart their wisdom upon a range of books.
From fantasy to non-fiction, board books to manga, you’ll find an unrivalled collection of books suitable for babies right through to young teenagers. Telling Tales also stocks a boutique selection of toys, puzzles and games as well as beautiful stationery items. But let’s face it, it's all about the books, and rightly so. This place is for anyone who not only wants to read books but “wants to climb inside them and live there”.
Words by Kelly Tapper & Photography by Nancy Zhou
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
BNZ Centre 101 Cashel St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
Nearby Places
Naveya & Sloane Jewellery

Naveya & Sloane is a jewellery house born and bred in New Zealand, and in mid-2025, they opened their Christchurch showroom on Oxford Terrace.
Earl

An enduring cornerstone of Christchurch’s East Block, Earl is a locally owned and loved institution that first brought European bistro culture to the city in 2018.
The Crossing

The Crossing is one of Christchurch’s greatest accomplishments post-earthquakes and has become the city centre’s premium shopping destination.
Similar Places
To Be Continued

If you’ve ever wished shopping preloved fashion felt a little more boutique and a lot less rummage, To Be Continued might just be your dream come true.
Nicola Quinn Beauty & Day Spa

For indulgence from your head down to your toes, pop along to this renowned Merivale day spa.
Bohemian Bakery Central City

Bohemian Bakery’s second storefront is a cozy enclave filled with the smells and sounds of a traditional bakery, like the ever popular Portuguese tart and crusty loaves.
Head over Heels

With New Zealand and international labels abound, expect plenty of classic shoe designs, mixed with fashion-forward options from the latest collections of top designers.


