new zealand travel family

One Week in New Zealand

North Island Road Trip

South Island Road Trip

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Skiing in New Zealand

Top National Parks

Museums & Art Galleries

Hot Springs

Wildlife Reserves

Must-Try Food in New Zealand

New Zealand's Wine Regions

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in New Zealand

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Top Places to Visit

North Island vs. South Island

Cities to Visit

Getting Around New Zealand

Best Auckland Hotels

New Zealand's Airports

Driving in New Zealand

Visiting New Zealand With Kids

Traveling to New Zealand With Kids: Everything to Know

Getty Images / Jason Hosking

What New Zealand lacks in flashy theme parks it more than makes up for in its natural beauty. Beaches, forests, caves , mountains, rivers, and lakes offer a wealth of good old-fashioned outdoor fun, and the towns and cities are generally quite small and manageable, and thus reasonably kid-friendly. New Zealanders themselves are big travelers, within their own country, as well as beyond it, so you'll find facilities and attractions all over the place catering to traveling families.

New Zealand is an ideal family travel destination not just because it offers fun stuff for kids, but because parents will genuinely have a good time, too. While we know parents can have a great time at so-called kids' attractions, it doesn't matter if you're not the theme park type here: there's so much more to see and do that will entertain kids and amaze parents. While the needs of parents differ wildly depending on the age of kids (and size of the family), in New Zealand, there's something for everyone.

New Zealand with Infants

Comfort and convenience are priorities for all families, but especially so for parents of infants. While babies are easily portable, it can be exhausting to try to do too much when you're still in the less-than-optimal-sleep phase of parenthood, when your child needs changing and feeding frequently. Basing yourself in a mid-sized town with lots of nearby attractions—such as Rotorua, Nelson , or Queenstown —is an excellent approach to traveling in New Zealand with infants.

• Scenic trains. Many travelers choose to travel around the country by rental car , but long car rides with a baby can be painful. Scenic train rides are a great alternative. They're mainly run as tourist services, so pass through very picturesque countryside. There's plenty of room to move about, with refreshment carts, viewing platforms, and bathrooms, so are preferable to sitting in a car for hours. The Northern Explorer travels between Auckland and Wellington in the North Island, while various services in the South include Picton, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Dunedin, and the Southern Alps.
• Scenic cruises. New Zealand offers plenty of opportunities for scenic boat rides. Baby is likely to be lulled to sleep while parents can enjoy the sights. In Auckland, there are short ferries from the CBD to the North Shore , Waiheke Island , Rangitoto Island, and elsewhere. In the lake cities of Rotorua, Taupo, Queenstown, and Wanaka, you can get out onto the lake. Go dolphin watching in the Bay of Islands or Marlborough Sounds (be aware that whale-watching tours in Kaikoura generally have a minimum age of three). Take a scenic cruise along the coast of the Abel Tasman National Park instead of hiking within it. Admire one of New Zealand's most iconic sights, Mitre Peak, from the water at Milford Sound. Spot seals and penguins at the Otago Peninsula. There are so many options.

New Zealand with Toddlers and Preschoolers

In some ways, traveling with toddlers is more challenging than with infants, as they tend to be more stubbornly independent. But, at least they're less likely to eat the sand at the beach than babies, and don't need to eat and sleep quite so often, opening up the sightseeing options.

• Beaches. New Zealand has some of the best beaches in the world, and outside the summer school vacation period, most of them are pretty empty. As a rule, beaches on the west coast of both islands tend to have bigger waves, stronger currents, and blacker sands. The east coasts have white sands and better swimming conditions. You'll never be far from a great beach while traveling along the coast of New Zealand, but especially good places to go with little ones are the Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park area, the Coromandel Peninsula, and Northland/the Bay of Islands.
• Wildlife parks and reserves. New Zealand has very few native mammals, but a wide variety of native birds, including the famous kiwi . The best places to see these are in dedicated wildlife reserves that are as close to natural, predator-free environments as possible, such as Zealandia in Wellington, Tiritiri Matangi island off Auckland, or Ulva Island, off Rakiura Stewart Island. There are also several zoos and zoo-like parks where you can see native New Zealand wildlife and international species, such as the Auckland and Wellington Zoos , the Kiwi House in Whangarei, Natureland in Nelson, Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium in Auckland, the National Aquarium of New Zealand in Napier, and Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch.

New Zealand with Under 10s

While older kids will also enjoy any of the activities mentioned above, you can also get into more outdoor activities with school-aged kids, really expanding your travel options.

• Camping. Camping is a great way to keep costs low in New Zealand. There are well-equipped campsites all over the place, but if you're willing to look beyond these, camping with a tent or RV is also a great way to see more remote corners of New Zealand, where other accommodation options are limited. New Zealand's Department of Conservation runs an extensive network of campsites, ranging from basic to serviced. You don't even need to stay at a designated campground everywhere, but be aware of local freedom camping laws .
• Horse trekking. Little legs can tire quickly, but horse trekking is a great alternative. You'll be able to cover rough terrain and longer distances that would be challenging for smaller kids. With farming being such a large part of New Zealand life, a lot of rural people keep horses. Great places for horse treks include Golden Bay , Central Otago, Ninety-Mile Beach, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, and the Whanganui area.

New Zealand with Tweens and Teens

Teens (and tweens) should be capable of the same kinds of activities as their parents, so if you're into the outdoors, you'll have many great options when traveling with your older kids in New Zealand.

• Hiking. New Zealanders are into hiking (which they call tramping) in a big way, so there are many tracks of varying difficulty all over the country. From short hour-long bush walks to multi-day treks through the wilderness, you'll be able to find something to suit your family's needs. In the national parks, you can stay in DOC-administered huts if you don't want to hike with all your own gear. The Abel Tasman National Park, at the top of the South Island, is a family favorite as its easily accessible via water taxi, and there are many beaches that kids of all ages (and parents) will love.
• White-water rafting. Many white-water rafting companies set a lower age limit of 12 on their trips, for safety reasons. If your child is a reasonable swimmer, there are many white-water rafting trips suitable for beginners, with smaller rapids. If your older teens are confident in the water, they can try some more challenging sections. Popular places to go rafting are the Kaituna River (Rotorua), Shotover River (Queenstown), Buller River (Murchison), and the Rangitata River (Christchurch), among others.
• Skiing. Whether your kids are competent skiers or just keen to learn, New Zealand is an excellent place to ski and snowboard in the winter. The majority of commercial ski fields are in the South Island, accessible from Christchurch and Queenstown/Wanaka. Cardrona, near Wanaka, is especially suitable for kids while also having more advanced options to keep experienced skiers happy.

Tips for Traveling with Kids in New Zealand

• All kids under the age of seven must be fitted in an age- and size-appropriate car seat when riding in a private car. This law doesn't apply to taxis or buses, but outside of urban areas, these aren't a common means of transport anyway. Rather than haul your own from home, many car rental companies also offer child car seats.
• New Zealanders are generally quite relaxed about public breastfeeding, and the law allows women to breastfeed wherever they need. Most women choose to do it discreetly out in public, with a scarf or shawl handy but don't feel obliged to do this if it doesn't suit you or baby. Attitudes are relaxing and will continue to if more women breastfeed unapologetically in public.
• Most public restrooms will have some kind of baby changing table, and bathrooms in cafes and restaurants often do. It's a good idea to carry a small and easily foldable changing mat to cushion your baby against hard surfaces (or less than sanitary conditions!)
• ap water is safe to drink in New Zealand, and food-borne illnesses are rare, so let your kids eat and drink whatever they feel like! (The ice cream is particularly good).
• New Zealand isn't a very cheap place to travel, with kids or without, but under-fours get free entry to most sights and activities, and child prices apply to under 12s, 16s, or 18s, depending on the place. It's also good to know that there are no entry fees to national parks in New Zealand.

New Zealand’s Top 6 National Parks

10 Reasons to Visit New Zealand's North Island

The Top 10 Cities in New Zealand

The 7 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

How to Go Hiking With Your Kids

The 12 Best Hot Springs in New Zealand

11 Best Things to Do in Nelson, New Zealand

The 15 Best Small Towns in New Zealand

Top 15 Things to Do in New Zealand's North Island

The 10 Most Important Historic Sites in New Zealand

Kaikoura, New Zealand: The Complete Guide

The Best Family Road Trips for Every Age

The Future of Tourism in New Zealand

18 Best Things to Do in Toronto With Kids

The 13 Best Restaurants in New Zealand

Your Trip to New Zealand: The Complete Guide

Deals of the Week   Captivating Costa Rica   Up to 50% OFF

New Zealand Family Tours & Vacation Packages

152 new zealand family trips with 147 reviews.

In-depth Cultural Family Wildlife Explorer Coach / Bus Christmas & New Year +4

Southern Spectacular (10 Days)

"The tour was relaxed and stress free, with good provision for stops and comfort." Patricia, traveled in March 2024

• €100 deposit on some dates

In-depth Cultural Family Explorer Coach / Bus Christmas & New Year +3

Southern Spotlight (9 Days)

"We've done two other Trafalgar bus tours and she has been our favourite tour guide. It was fast paced, but we did cover an incredible amount in 8 days." Dianne, traveled in November 2023

Explorer Family Historical

New Zealand Panorama (7 Days)

In-depth Cultural Family Self Drive Wildlife Explorer Christmas & New Year +4

Queenstown to Wellington Highlights - 7 Day Self Drive Tour

"Very very satisfied with Tour Radar. The mattresses were absolutely awful, the beds were very springy and offered zero support." AnnaLangston, traveled in November 2019

Active Family Sport Explorer Hiking & Trekking Christmas & New Year +3

New Zealand Family Vacation

"We thought the activities were perfect for a family with three (7, 11 and 13) children. Our three children loved the trip." Diana, traveled in December 2014

Active Family Self Drive Wildlife Explorer Christmas & New Year +3

New Zealand Grand - 14 Day Self Drive Tour

"The travel itinerary, activities, and accommodations were all excellent. Absolutely recommended!" Troy, traveled in October 2022

Explorer Family Christmas & New Year +1

5 Day Southern Scenes

Wildlife Family Explorer Christmas & New Year +1

2 Day Kaikoura Whales and Dolphins Overnight Tour

"The itinerary was very clear and easy to follow, the events were great and the accommodation was lovely." Connie, traveled in December 2022

Explorer Family Temples Sightseeing Historical +2

Bucket List New Zealand (9 Days)

A Self-Drive Odyssey Across New Zealand

Reviews of new zealand family tours.

I thoroughly enjoyed my tour. The guide, Isobel, paid very good attention to details and the comfort of her tourists.I felt safe and secure in the bus as Mark's driving was very competent and Isobel was delightful, patient and full of fun, a real people person.She and Mark worked well together, meal times, departure times and other important information was provided well in advance. Good provision was made for frequent stops to allow for toilet breaks and the purchase of refreshments. I liked their attention to time keeping. For me, everything worked smoothly which made the tour relaxed and stress free. I would highly recommend Isobel and Mark.

Isobel was an outstanding tour guide, full of amazing and interesting information, funny, down to earth, a wonderful story teller, competent, organised, nice to everyone. We've done two other Trafalgar bus tours and she has been our favourite tour guide. Darrell was a superb bus driver, always calm, navigating different terrains and weather with ease. We felt 100% safe in his competent hands. I liked that so much of the good stuff was included in the tour, e.g. the cruise on Milford Sound, and the wonderful ferry ride and dinner on the farm in Queenstown. It was fast paced, but we did cover an incredible amount in 8 days.

Everything was great with the except of the hotel accommodations in Wellington and Christchurch. The mattresses were absolutely awful. The beds were very springy and offered zero support. Woke up very sore each morning in those cities. Other than that, very very satisfied with Tour Radar.

Regions in New Zealand

• New Zealand South Island (77)
• New Zealand North Island (44)
• Milford Sound (22)
• New Zealand Central North Island (18)
• New Zealand Bay Of Islands (10)
• Bay Of Plenty (8)
• New Zealand West Coast (5)
• New Zealand Northland (5)
• Southern Alps (5)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• New Zealand Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 2 Week New Zealand Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 3 Week New Zealand Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Discover TourRadar

• France Tours
• Great Britain Tours
• India Wildlife & Nature Photography tours
• Kibale National Park Entebbe tours
• Yosemite National Park Fall-Autumn tours
• Red Centre tours
• Grand Teton National Park 7 day tours

26 Places to go on a New Zealand Family Holiday

There are so many awesome places to go in New Zealand with the kids making it the perfect family holiday destination.  With family in New Zealand, we’ve visited many times and are super excited that we will get to take another family trip to New Zealand soon.

There are so many awesome things to do in New Zealand with kids, making it the perfect place for a family trip.  So if you need some inspiration for places to go on your New Zealand holiday with kids, then read on!

In this guide, my travel blogger friends share with you their favourite destinations to travel New Zealand with kids.  They’ve covered some of the best things to do in New Zealand for kids in some of the best family holiday destinations NZ offers on both the north and south islands.

So if New Zealand travel with kids is on the cards for your family, read on and get planning an awesome family trip!

Talk to other families about their tips on visiting NZ and join our  Thrifty Family Travels Facebook group or be inspired on our  Thrifty Family Travel Instagram Feed .

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer  here  for more information.

Page Contents

• 1 26 Places to go on a New Zealand Family Holiday
• 2.1 Bay of Islands
• 2.2 Te Paki Sand Dunes 
• 2.3 Auckland
• 2.4 Rangitoto Island
• 2.5  Waiheke Island
• 2.6 Coromandel
• 2.8 Hobbiton
• 2.10 Rotorua
• 2.11 Wellington
• 3.1 Marlborough Wine Region
• 3.2 Kaikoura
• 3.3 Hanmer Springs
• 3.4 Christchurch
• 3.7 Dunedin
• 3.8 Franz Josef Glacier
• 3.9 Fox Glacier
• 3.10 Lake Tekapo
• 3.11 Mt Cook
• 3.13 Wanaka
• 3.14 Queenstown
• 3.15 Milford Sound
• 3.16 Stewart Island

To make it easier for you to plan your New Zealand family itinerary, I’ve split this post into the north and south destinations.  I’ve also added all the destinations to the below map so you can work out which destinations fit into your New Zealand with kids itinerary.  You can zoom in and out to check out all the destinations.

Please note that all prices mentioned in this what to see in New Zealand family guide are in New Zealand Dollar and were correct at the time of writing. Prices may fluctuate depending upon changes to currency conversion and rate increases.  To check the rate in your local currency, click here.

Places to Visit: North Island, New Zealand with Kids

In no particular order, here are some of the best things to do in North Island New Zealand and of course the best places to visit on the North Island, New Zealand with kids.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a fabulous place to visit during your New Zealand holiday with children.  It’s also the perfect mid-way point if you’re taking an Auckland to Cape Reinga road trip.

First on your list should be a trip to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds , the birthplace of modern-day New Zealand. The family friendly New Zealand museum tells the story of the founding document of the nation – the Treaty of Waitangi.  Then outside, you can walk through beautiful native bush to a huge waka (war canoe) which at 35 metres long is the world’s largest. To complete your visit, you can participate in a traditional Maori powhiri (welcome) ceremony onto the marae to learn more about Maori culture and history.

You can’t visit the Bay of Islands without heading out onto the water, and there are numerous options for day trips to the various islands. A firm favourite is the Cream Trip, which takes you cruising out on the water and through the famous ‘ Hole in the Rock ‘. If you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins out in the Bay during your trip.

Finally, don’t miss the gorgeous seaside town of Russell, a short ferry ride from the mainland at Paihia. It was the original capital of New Zealand and still has several quaint buildings from that time. Grab a meal or drink at New Zealand’s oldest pub, the waterside Duke of Marlborough hotel, which has a fabulous adults and kids menu – the ice-cream sundaes are a must!

As you can see, there are some unique things to do in Bay of Islands New Zealand, making it one of the perfect places to visit in New Zealand with kids.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in the Bay of Islands.

Thanks to Kylie from Our Overseas Adventures

Te Paki Sand Dunes  

For the best family holidays NZ has, take the kids to Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes, in the far North of New Zealand’s Northland.  Here you’ll find beautiful views of the Tasman Sea combined with a nice dose of adrenaline waiting for everyone.  Your kids will love this place on your NZ holiday!

Te Paki Dunes are a perfect sandboarding playground for the whole family. You don’t need to bring your own sandboard – you can rent it for $15/day directly at the car park. There is no entrance fee to Sand Dunes. You can leave your car either in the car park, or (if you have 4WD) you can follow the stream and drive through the river (sand dunes will be on your right-hand side).

Be prepared to have sand everywhere and bring sunglasses (but not your favourite ones, because the sand could scratch them). Te Paki Sand Dunes definitely belong among the best things to do in North Island .

Other nearby places worth visiting are Cape Reinga or 90 Miles Beach.  Cape Regina is a sealed road, but for 90 Miles Beach, you’ll need a 4WD and be sure to drive to conditions.

Thanks to Adriana from Czech the World

A family holiday to New Zealand will often start with arriving in Auckland, on New Zealand’s North Island.  Auckland is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand with kids as there is a bounty of kid friendly activities across the city. As the country’s largest city, Auckland boasts quite an array of places to stay, eat and explore, and with a great public transport system in place, it’s a breeze to get around.

Love the outdoors? Then the best things to do in Auckland with kids include a visit to the Auckland Botanic Gardens or Butterfly Creek. If you have an adrenaline junkie in the family but are travelling outside the ski season, Snowplanet has your name all over it with 8,000 square metres of indoor snow fun, including ski lifts!  Or if you love animals, you have both the Auckland zoo or SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium to visit on your trip.

Food is plentiful in Auckland, but our hot tip is to head to Amano opposite Waitemata Harbour, our favourite place to eat in the city. It always has something to tantalise the taste buds of everyone in our family.  And where to stay? We adored the attention to detail at the Movenpick Hotel Auckland, where the kids were spoilt with Easter Eggs, and I found chocolate or macarons on our bed each night!

For most Australians, Auckland is the start of their family travel in New Zealand as it has the largest airport in the country. If you’re considering an NZ family trip, watch out for sale fares throughout the year to snag yourself a bargain flight for your family holiday New Zealand.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Auckland.

Thanks to Leah from Kid Bucket List

R angitoto Island

If you are spending some days in Auckland with the family,  a great day trip from Auckland for kids is Rangitoto Island.  This can be a fun way to leave the hustle and bustle of the capital for a day.  Rangitoto is the youngest island in the Hauraki Gulf and its 259 m volcanic cone is a distinctive landmark just off the Auckland coast.

Rangitoto erupted from the sea in a series of dramatic explosions around 600 years ago, becoming the last and largest volcano formed in the Auckland volcanic field.

Rangitoto is one of the best places to go in New Zealand for nature lovers.  People usually go to Rangitoto to see the world’s largest pohutukawa forest and explore its fascinating landscapes of rugged lava crops and lush native bush.

Also, it is possible to climb up to the island’s famous cone. The hike up to the volcano is only 5 km (one way), very easy and it usually takes one hour. On the summit, the views are amazing: the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland’s beautiful skyline.

Rangitoto was in the past a summer destination for the beautiful families of Auckland, who built elegant “baches” (small holiday houses) in the 1920s and 1930s. Visitors can still see some of these baches, usually located not far from the beach.

A day trip from Auckland to Rangitoto Island is very easy to organise. The island is connected to the mainline by ferry (30 min ride, one way). Currently, nobody is living on the island so if you want to spend the full day, be sure to pack food and drinks for the family.

So if you’re looking for something a little different and out of the hustle and bustle of Auckland, add Rangitoto Island as one of the places to visit New Zealand.

Thanks to Elisa from World in Paris

  Waiheke Island

For families visiting Auckland, another one of the New Zealand places to visit is Waiheke Island. The island is constantly voted as one of the best island escapes in the world by Lonely Planet, Travel and Leisure Magazine, and other international experts and the kids will love it too.

The kids will love hopping on the Fullers ferry at downtown Auckland and taking a 40-minute scenic boat trip through the sparkling Hauraki Gulf waters to Waiheke and passing islands like the huge, dormant volcano that is Rangitoto Island (see above).

If you have the time, you can even stay for a week or two, in which case you may want to rent a car when you arrive or you can take a car on the separate Sea Link Car Ferry from Auckland.  Rent a classic New Zealand bach (beach house) for family accommodation through one of the booking agencies like Airbnb, bookabach.co.nz, or holidayhouses.co.nz. If you don’t have a car, try to find accommodation close to one of the Waiheke Explorer hop-on hop-off bus stops. They have a wide variety of interesting itineraries on offer.

Summer (October/ November to April/ March) is the most popular time to visit to enjoy the miles of gorgeous beaches and boating, kayaking and paddleboard activities.  There are plenty of interesting walks and hikes, showcasing New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna and wildlife, and biking and mountain bike tracks. There is lots of activities to keep the family busy and some great ice cream shops too!  Waiheke is famous for its vineyards and most of them have children play facilities and family restaurants or cafes.

If you get time, another amazing island to visit on New Zealand North Island with kids is the Great Barrier Island with its Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Waiheke Island.

Thanks to Maureen from So Many Places! So Little Time!

One of the best places to visit for family travel, New Zealand offers is The Coromandel.  This beautiful peninsula in New Zealand is popular with locals and tourists, with a range of things to do and see for the whole family.

Located on the East Coast of the North Island, the area is full of amazing trails, secret islands, gorges, waterfalls, misty rainforests and magical beaches. There are many hiking and biking trails throughout the area, including the famous Hauraki Rail Trail – an awesome family trail to walk or ride, as it’s fairly flat and set along old railroad tracks. Get out and explore, it’s free!

One of the best things to do in NZ with kids is to visit ‘Hot Water Beach’, where (you guessed it) hot water bubbles up through the sand due to natural, underground hot springs. Visitors can head to the beach two hours on either side of low tide, see the steam rising and then dig their very own ‘beach spa’. Be careful; the water can get hot, so make sure you have a steady supply of fresh ocean water coming in – and bring a spade. It’s a really unique experience that is fun for the whole family and one of the top things to do in New Zealand North Island.

A great place to stay is the nearby ‘Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park ‘ . Set on beautiful grounds along a river, they have campsites, funky cabins, villas and multi-bedroom apartments, as well as a grocery store, laundry, takeaway and a really cool playground (including a giant bouncy pillow) for kids. It suits any budget or group size. And it’s only walking distance to Hot Water Beach!

From Auckland, Coromandel is around two hours drive (with a car). Visitors can also take the bus, which takes a little longer, or the (very scenic) ferry! A car is the best option, as there are so many great spots to explore that can be difficult to reach otherwise, and trust us – you will want to see them all!

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Coromandel.

Thanks to Jenna from I Know the Pilot

Hahei is yet another one of the awesome holiday places in NZ on the North Island.  Hahei is a small coastal town located in the Coromandel, is popular during the summer months. It’s between Cooks Beach and Hot Water Beach and is around 2 and a half hours from either Auckland or Mount Maunganui . Hahei has one of the best white sand beaches in the Coromandel; it’s great for swimming, boogie boarding and surfing. There is also plenty of space to build a sandcastle too.

The most popular attraction is Cathedral Cove. The paved walk mixed with stairs takes around 30-40 minutes; many families walk this trail at the own pace. There are two other bays to visit along the way, both great for snorkelling and swimming. Arriving at Cathedral Cove, you immediately notice its landmark. Here you can swim either side of the cove, but the waves here can be stronger, so keep an eye on your little ones.

Make sure to check out The Hahei Explorer; it’s perfect for families to experience the marine reserve. You might even get up close with some dolphins or a whale.

The best place to stay is the Hahei Holiday Resort campground; this place has all the accommodation options amenities you need for the perfect family stay.

So if you’re looking for New Zealand places to visit in Summer with the kids, definitely consider Hahei as one of your holiday destinations, New Zealand has on offer.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Hahei.

Thanks to Scott from 4 Degrees of Destination  

One of the best family holiday destinations in New Zealand is Hobbiton. Hobbiton is about an hour and a half outside of Auckland and is the actual set where “The Shire” from Lord of the Rings was filmed!  You will have to either drive yourself or hop on a guided tour from Auckland to get there.

Hobbiton is the perfect place to visit while touring New Zealand with kids as you really feel like you have stepped into the Lord of the Rings movies themselves. Plus, being on a movie set is a really cool experience for the whole family. The “hobbit holes” in the Shire are still standing and the perfect size for your kids to go in and feel at home.

The tour allows you to walk the set and even go inside some of the hobbit holes. The tour guides can answer any question about Lord of the Rings, so it can be fun to test them. With your Hobbiton experience, you get a guided tour of the Shire, an experience at “Dragon’s Inn,” and time to explore the grounds! It is truly magical.

Be sure to book in advance as these tours fill up quickly. I would highly recommend also including the lunch buffet in your tour package as well. When in Hobbiton, eat like a hobbit.

If you’re looking for super fun places to visit in New Zealand with kids, then Hobbiton is definitely one to consider, particularly for Lord of the Rings fans.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Hobbiton.

Thanks to Shannon from Adventuring with Shannon

During your North Island, New Zealand family vacation, be sure to stop in at Taupo for a few days – there is plenty to do here.  There are so many great Taupo family activities , with most things to do in Taupo with kids revolving around its gorgeous natural setting.

Start your day with a stroll around the gorgeous lake and get a few photos taken by the “#Love Taupo” sign. You could also take a scenic cruise out on Lake Taupo to see the famous Maori rock carvings .  Then depending on the time of day, have morning tea or lunch at one of the lakefront restaurants or cafes.

Then head out to see the gorgeous cascades of Huka Falls and maybe even take a river cruise or for the more adventurous families, you can even take a jet boat ride .  While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Aratiatia Rapids.  Make sure you’re there when the dam wall opens so you can see the thousands of litres of water flow through, creating the amazing rapids.

I highly recommend you check out some of the geothermal hot spots and volcanic terrain valleys.  There are a few spots to check out, including Orakei Korako, which Lonely Planet describes as “arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand”.  You could also enjoy a relaxing dip in one of the many hot springs in the area .

Other places to visit and things to do for kids in Taupo include Huka Prawn, Huka Honey, sky diving , hiking, mini golf and more – these are all fun things to do in New Zealand that kids will love (besides the sky diving)!

Lake Taupo is around 3.5 hours drive from Auckland, 4.5 hours from Wellington and 1 hour from Rotorua.  I recommend while you visit that you stay at the Lake Taupo Holiday Resort – this place is brilliant for families and even has its own thermally heated pools.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Taupo.

Thanks to Andy from Queensland Camping

While you visit New Zealand with kids, make sure to go to Rotorua, one of the coolest cities in New Zealand.  There are heaps of Rotorua things to do with kids, especially for adventurous families because of all the awesome activities like zip lining, white water rafting , and riding on a gondola .

Rotorua is located on the North Island, about 3 hours from Auckland and it’s most famous for its geothermal activity. To see geothermal mud pools , hot springs and geysers, you’ll want to head to Whakarewarewa . It smells like Sulphur, but it will leave your whole family breathless on your New Zealand holidays.

Another one of the cool kid’s activities Rotorua has is the Redwoods Tree Walk. Here, your family can walk 20 meters high up in a Redwoods forest across 28 swinging bridges. It’s not scary at all and they even have activities for the kids when you’ve completed it.

You can visit Maori villages all over New Zealand, but the most popular ones are in Rotorua. One of our favourite things to do in Rotorua with kids is to explore the Tamaki Maori Village . It’s where families can participate in cultural activities, watch Maori dancing, and enjoy an authentic Hangi feast.

The best way to get to Rotorua is to drive from Auckland, although they do have a small airport you can fly into. I recommend renting an Airbnb in Rotorua, so you have plenty of space for the whole family.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Rotorua.

Thanks to Marice from Marcie in Mommy Land

Many Australian families fly into Wellington when they visit New Zealand with kids, making it the perfect place to start your family holidays to New Zealand.  There are plenty of things to do in Wellington with kids, including some great free activities – making for some cheap Wellington holidays.

Start your time in Wellington with a walk along the scenic waterfront.  There are some great cafes here for a bite to eat and a range of playgrounds like the popular Frank Kitts Park.  Other things to do on the waterfront include visiting the Wellington Museum and the Te Papa Museum .  From here, for those who enjoy shopping, I’d recommend wandering around the city as I find the shopping in Wellington particularly good.

One of the best things for kids to do in Wellington is to ride on the little red Wellington cable car.   The cable car runs between Lambton Quay and Kelburn and at the top, you can take a stroll around the Wellington Botanic Gardens.  Depending on the time of your visit, you may also be able to take in a show at the Space Place planetarium.

For animal lovers, there is a range of places to check out some wildlife.  There is the Wellington Zoo as well as Zealandia, where you can see a kiwi – which let’s be honest, seeing a kiwi is one of the top 10 things to do in New Zealand!

There are plenty of other fun things to do in Wellington for kids, including cruises, hiking and during the warmer months, some stunning beaches.

So for those starting their family holidays in New Zealand with a flight into Wellington, definitely plan on spending a few days here.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Wellington.

Thanks to Melissa from Queensland Camping

Places to Visit: South Island, New Zealand with Kids

In no particular order, here are some of the best places to visit on the South Island, New Zealand with kids.

Marlborough Wine Region

Of course, New Zealand is famous for its incredible wine regions, and if you’re a lover of wine, I would certainly visit at least one of the wine regions during your New Zealand family holidays. People don’t often think of wine tasting as one of the family activities NZ offers, but visiting the wineries of Marlborough is very manageable with kids. And if you love wine, you can’t miss a visit to this special wine region!

You don’t need to be a wine expert to know that Marlborough in New Zealand is one of the world’s premium wine regions. The region produces 75% of New Zealand’s total wine production and within that, 85% of this wine is sauvignon blanc. So if you are a fan of white wine, you won’t want to miss a visit to Marlborough.

Luckily the wineries in Marlborough are generally family-friendly, with plenty of space for the kids to run around while parents do a wine tasting, and some even having toy boxes and garden games to keep the kids entertained.

Some of the best wineries to visit with kids include Wairau River, which has a large outdoor lawn and garden games; the famous Cloudy Bay, with its huge garden with croquet and petanque; and Forrest Wines and Wither Hills, which both have toy boxes in the tasting rooms for younger kids as well as plenty of lawn space.

So for parents who love their New Zealand wine, consider visiting Marlborough during your NZ family holidays.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Marlborough.

Thanks to Marianne from Mum on the Move

Kaikoura lies on the East Coast of the South Island. From the mountains to the abundance of marine life, the natural beauty of the area makes it a perfect place to visit on New Zealand South Island with kids.

A 2-hour drive from Picton – the gateway to the South Island – will find you arriving in a seaside gem where morning beach walks, shell collecting, and animal encounters will all feature highly on your activity “to-do” list on your holiday in New Zealand.

Book onto a whale watching cruise and be delighted by the sight of a Sperm Whale mounting from the water or an Orca or Humpback popping up to say hello. After all, this is the whale watching capital of the world.

Enjoy the look on your child’s face as they see the pods of dolphins leaping and spinning from the water as your cruise makes its way around the waters. Look to the skies as the Albatross glide above you, a wildlife lovers paradise.

Kayaking is another great way to get all the family participating in a water-based activity, allowing interaction with the playful New Zealand fur seal pups that call this ocean their home. As you can see, for families who love their marine life, Kaikoura is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand South Island.

Of course, not all children like the water and that’s not a worry as the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers a chance to see seals in their natural habitat and has different level walks so all ages can take part. Or perhaps cuddling a baby lamb at the Point Sheep Shearing Farm would be something your child would enjoy.

Accommodation is plentiful in Kaikoura, and the main town offers a small selection of restaurants, cafes and delicious ice-cream parlours where your little ones can enjoy a sweet treat.

Before you leave, don’t forget to check out the Kaikoura museum, which highlights artefacts from past and present times in Kaikoura, fascinating and educational for both you and your children.

For families who love animals, it’s easy to see why Kaikoura is recommended as one of the best places to visit in New Zealand with family.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Kaikoura.

Thanks to Angela from Where Angie Wanders

Hanmer Springs

If you’ve heard of Hanmer Springs, situated on New Zealand’s South Island, you’ll maybe associate it with the famous thermal springs and a relaxing break for adults. So why include a stop here while you visit New Zealand with kids? Well, despite being known as an adults destination, Hanmer Springs is very child-friendly, with a lovely relaxed vibe, the air crisp and clear and the sunsets absolutely immense.

The Hanmer Springs thermal springs themselves are fabulous for kids and are reason enough to visit. There’s a small selection of (very) hot pools they can’t go in, but there’s several other pools, a lazy river, slides and waterfalls to amuse all ages on your holiday in NZ.

The time of year guides the activities. In winter, there’s snow, with winter sports available should your kids be snow bunnies, and in summer, take them jet-boating , rafting, horse-trekking, bungy jumping (12yrs+), biking and hiking. If you and your family love outdoor activities, this is the place to be year-round.

Regarding accommodation, no area is better than any other if you’re mobile, as the town is quite small. Everything in the town is within walking distance; you’ll just need to drive to activities such as jet-boating.

Hanmer is fairly central to the South Island, but if you’re visiting Christchurch, Hanmer is only approximately two hour’s drive, so it is great for a couple of nights away from the city. If you have time, don’t miss out on taking the kids as they’ll love it – it’s one of the great places to go on holidays in NZ.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Hanmer Springs.

Thanks to Kerri from Adventures in Family Land  

Christchurch

The South Island’s largest city has undergone a reinvention since the devastating earthquakes of 2010 & 2011. It is now more family-friendly than ever, with new pools, playgrounds and attractions opening up around the city.

Christchurch is a fantastic place for adventurous families, as the city is blessed with stunning beaches for swimming and surfing, hills for hiking and biking, and flat roads for cycling. And if you’re on a cheap family holidays NZ budget, you’ll find plenty of free things to do in Christchurch also.

Some of the best things to do with children in Christchurch include visiting the famous Margaret Mahy playground that provides hours of fun, the gondola up Mt Cavendish , which has a fun interactive show at the top, the iconic Christchurch Tramway ride through the city , the International Antarctic Centre with its rides & fun educational activities, and the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for a lovely day out with the animals.

Eating out is easy, too, as the general atmosphere is laidback and friendly, and there are many family-friendly restaurants to choose from.

When choosing when to visit Christchurch, summer or early autumn are ideal, as spring can be fairly wet and winter very cold! Of course, if you choose to visit in winter, the ski slopes are an easy day trip away! Be sure to stay central to enjoy the parks, gardens, and family-friendly attractions on offer.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Christchurch.

Thanks to Nadine from Le Long Weekend

Timaru is in a picture-perfect location nestled between the foothills of the Southern Alps and the East Coast, just a 2-hour drive south of Christchurch. It is a great place for a family holiday NZ getaway or stopover.

The most popular family friendly attraction in town is the infamous Caroline Bay – a stunning beach with calm waters (that now has a swimming pontoon!) It is a large beach with lots of sand to play in and is home to little blue Penguins that can be viewed at night. Besides enjoying the beach at Caroline Bay, there is a playground with a range of activities, including disc golf, a paddling pool, playground, tennis court, mini-golf, the rollerblading club, a small train and more!

The best time of year to visit Timaru is during the Caroline Bay Carnival from 26 December – around mid January – the perfect New Zealand summer holiday. The carnival is a highlight of the town and has been running for over 100 years and includes fun activities and an assortment of rides, carnival games and concerts. Besides Caroline Bay, Timaru has over 40 parks to keep the kids entertained!

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Timaru.

Thanks to Lee from Be Free With Lee

Another one of the wonderful New Zealand holiday destinations is Oamaru.  The town of Oamaru is 112 km north of Dunedin and 250 km south of Christchurch on the South Island of New Zealand.  This charming little farming town by the sea has some interesting attractions in town and the surrounding countryside.

You might have heard of Moeraki, half an hour south of Oamaru. Koekohe Beach near Moeraki is famous for its huge spherical beach boulders. Time your visit there for low tide.  But another popular thing to do is to visit the Blue Penguin Colony.  These little guys reside just 5 minutes from downtown, where you can take a tour at night or visit by day to learn more about these cuties.

For the cheese lovers, head to Whitestone Cheeses, situated right in town and offer some tantalising choices like Moeraki Bay Blue Cheese. Pick up some cheese and then head to the Oamaru Public Gardens.  These gardens are quite impressive and definitely worth a visit. Look for the red Japanese Bridge, fanciful statues, tropical plant hot-house, walks and the decent kid’s playground.

Steampunk is a weird and wonderful attraction, albeit not at all natural. It’s pretty hard to miss, heralded as it is by a tilted steam engine at the front of a workshop building near the railway.  Inside and out are the imaginings of what a Victorian era inventor might have built today. Sounds whacky doesn’t it? Think unique and divisive, strange and wonderful creations. Certainly there are other Steampunks around the world, but Oamaru’s is the largest.

You might also like to try a Bacon Buttie at Oamaru’s Sunday farmers market held in a grassy park in the Port/ Victorian District. Scott’s Brewery is across the street and nearby a penny-farthing bike to pose with.  The Victorian District is full of original old buildings built from local stone, including an Opera House. You might even find people strolling through the streets in period costume – definitely one of the unique places to see in New Zealand with family.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Oamaru.

Thanks to Jan from Budget Travel Talk  

Dunedin is the perfect city to add to your New Zealand family holiday itinerary, mostly due to its small size (you won’t get caught in traffic when moving around the city) and a huge number of things to see and do.

If you’re a family who loves to hike, you’ll be well catered to. There are many beautiful walks in Dunedin, and some of the best ones take less than an hour. Some of the walks I’d recommend doing with kids include Tunnel Beach, Sandymount and Nicols Falls (if you don’t mind getting a bit muddy).

Other things to do in Dunedin include some cool museums and art galleries, the steepest street in the world, dozens of viewpoints (some of which you can drive straight to), lots of beaches and some of the best street art you’ll find anywhere in the world. Throw in some beautiful architecture (Dunedin was a boomtown in the late 1800s / early 1900s and has kept many of its grand old buildings) and you have one of the most appealing and family friendly cities in New Zealand.

Dunedin is also a good place to base yourself for day trips. You could explore the Catlins, with their wild waterfalls and rugged coastal views, in a day and you could head north to Oamaru (surely the cutest old town in New Zealand – see above) and the Moeraki Boulders.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Dunedin.

Thanks to Jon from See the South Island

Franz Josef Glacier

Photo Credit – Fraser Clements

Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most amazing destinations in New Zealand and a visit here is without a doubt one of the best things to do in New Zealand South Island with kids.

The easiest way to see the glacier is on a hike from the car park. The hike is about 5 km in total, and it will take about 90 minutes. The hike is on rocky terrain, but children can navigate it. Note that strollers are not going to work on the path, so you will need to carry the little ones. You won’t be able to go all the way to the glacier but will be able to see it from about 750 m away.

The most dramatic way to see the glacier is with a helicopter tour . Not all tour companies will take children (and some have age limits), so it is important to look at websites and contact the companies in advance. You will wear crampons to walk on the glacier itself, and the tour guides will take you through a unique ice world with crevasses and caves.

Be warned that this bucket-list adventure is not cheap. If you’re travelling to New Zealand with toddlers, ensure the tour operator can deliver a tour that children can handle to make it worth the large expense. And be warned that the weather is highly variable in this part of New Zealand, so your flight might be cancelled for fog or rain – so it’s best if you’ve got some time up your sleeve.

If you’re looking for totally unique things to do in New Zealand for families, then a visit to Franz Josef Glacier is definitely one to consider.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Franz Josef.

Thanks to Derek from Robe Trotting

Fox Glacier

A small town in New Zealand with a fantastic glacier, Fox Glacier got its name from one of the country’s Prime Ministers (Sir William Fox). Visiting Fox Glacier will be the highlight of your South Island family holiday.

Located at the foot of the beautiful Southern Alps of New Zealand, Fox Glacier is a natural gateway for adventure activities suitable for families. These include hiking on the glacier, going on scenic flights and leisurely walks around the region. The main attraction at Fox Glacier is the glacier itself and is a natural landmark in New Zealand that will take your breath away.  The best view is on Cook Flat road on the way to Lake Matheson.

Teens and adventurous families might like to try ice-hiking and ice climbing, and heli hiking is an experience for your family adventure bucket list. Imagine landing by helicopter on the glacier to explore ice caves. Younger kids will love getting out of the helicopter and playing in the snow – making this one of their most memorable family holidays, New Zealand.

Other attractions near Fox Glacier include exploring glow worm caves and taking a trip out to enjoy a picnic at Lake Matheson, where you can gaze at the stunning reflection of Mount Cook in the lake. There are some easy walks around Lake Matheson suitable for kids, and the gold mining area of Gillespies Beach is an excellent place to spot fur seals.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Fox Glacier.

Thanks to Christina from Travel2Next.com

Lake Tekapo

One of the first and most memorable things you will notice about Tekapo is the amazing colour of the lake as you drive down the hill.  If you are driving south from Christchurch, it will be that “oh my gosh” moment.   Lake Tekapo is a small township surrounded by the beautiful Southern Alps and sits lakeside.  The lake itself is the biggest attraction, but there are many more things to explore.

Kids will love the Tekapo Springs hot pools, which also has an ice rink and snow tubing slide in winter and an enormous bouncy castle and water slide in the summer.  I prefer visiting in winter as it is a little quieter and the snowy mountains are just stunning when reflected in the lake.  Lake Tekapo has some great walks, such as the Mt John Summit walk, which is a must do if you want to see these beautiful views from above.

The Mackenzie Region, where Tekapo is its hub, is also one of the few Dark Sky Reserve in the world.  This means it has very little light pollution and is one of the best places in the world to see the stars.  You can visit the Mt John Observatory or take a Dark sky tour with a guide to show you how to spot the best constellations and see the Milky Way in all its glory.

I highly recommend staying overnight, as Lake Tekapo is often a busy tourist stop, yet once the tour buses are gone, it is calm and beautiful once more.  For family accommodation New Zealand has on offer for those in campervans, you will find the Lake Tekapo Holiday Park on the lakeside an ideal stop, or for a bit more room for the family, the Peppers Bluewater Resort has large apartment style rooms.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Lake Tekapo.

Thanks to Jennifer from Backyard Travel Family  

Photo Credit – Miles Holden

For outdoor-loving families, the Mount Cook area of New Zealand is a must-visit! Like much of the South Island, it’s very remote. It’s a great place to get a sense for the majesty of New Zealand’s mountain ranges and open spaces, with plenty of hikes to keep a family busy for several days.

The centrepiece for most visits to the region is the world-famous Hooker Valley Track. It’s only 5 km long and almost completely flat but filled with stunning views as you walk from the village, along the Hooker River and all the way to the refreshing waters of the glacial lake at the base of Mount Cook. Our 6 year old was able to complete the entire walk with ease, while our 3 year old did part of it on her own and part of it in a carrier.  Once at the glacial lake, you can choose to do a cruise if you like to get a closer view of the glacier and floating icebergs.

One of the biggest challenges of visiting Mount Cook is that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations, New Zealand. The trails can get packed during school holidays in December and January, when the weather is at its warmest and families from all over the world are on vacation. If your schedule allows, spring and autumn are less crowded and no less beautiful; in fact during these months, you’ll be able to see the larger icebergs floating in the lake. If you visit in summer, beware that it can get quite sunny on the trail at midday, so be sure to bring protection. If you run out of water (as we did), kids will enjoy refilling their bottles from the pure, refreshing water. It’s the best we’ve ever tasted!

Once in Mount Cook village, it’s not necessary to drive anywhere unless you want to. Nearly all of the lodges and trailheads are accessible on foot. That said, we did find it helpful to bring our own groceries in our cooler from our previous, more developed stop. The restaurant and grocery options in town are very limited and their hours may not line up with your schedule, so come prepared.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Mt Cook.

Thanks to Melissa from The Family Voyage  

We never expected that Wanaka would be so much fun to visit! What attracted us to the town is the famous Puzzling World – a place where you can bend your mind with different games and puzzles, immerse yourself in illusion rooms, or test your problem-solving skills. If it’s not raining, we recommend trying to figure out the maze – the world’s first 3D Great Maze and taking some creative photos with the Leaning Tower of Wanaka. Puzzling World is a great attraction and one of the best things to do in Wanaka with kids.

While picnics in New Zealand are a must, you can enjoy those with a view of the famous #ThatWanakaTree – one of the top things to do in New Zealand. It’s one of the most photographed trees in New Zealand and the hike to is just as beautiful. Start from the west end of town and walk along the Lake Wanaka shore to get there.

Another amazing outdoor activity takes place at the Lismore Park at the disc golf course. You can rent a disc golf disc from town and enjoy the sport with views of the lake and the mountains. If the weather is not so supportive, you can head to the Warbirds and Wheels – a complex displaying more than 30 classic cars and motorcycles, 5 warbirds, wearable creations, and the Sir Tim Wallis Story.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Wanaka.

Thanks to Bistra from The Magic of Traveling

Queenstown sits on the shores of the stunning Lake Wakatipu in the South Island of New Zealand. Known as an alpine town for its close proximities to the ski slopes, it is a wonderful place to visit with the kids during the summer and perfect during the winter if you’re after the best place to ski in New Zealand with kids. Queenstown is truly picturesque with glorious mountains as backdrops, deep emerald coloured waters in the canyons and the freshest air you’ll ever breathe in.

There are so many kid friendly things to do in Queenstown. Take a trip up the gondola for some luging fun , horseback riding in Glenorchy where they filmed Lord of the Rings ,  paragliding, fruit picking in the summer or going on a ride on the TSS Earnslaw, an old steamship on Lake Wakatipu. If you’re coming to Queenstown in the winter, you’ll have to go for some snow fun in the Remarkables or Coronet Peak . For you adrenaline junkie teens, there’s the famous AJ Hackett bungy jump, Shotover Jet Boat Ride and Canyon Swing , Skydiving  and white water rafting .

You can fly direct to Queenstown from some major cities in Australia. Quite a few people like to fly into a major city in the South Island, hire a car and drive around. You will need a set of wheels in Queenstown to get around and you would want to anyway as the drives are like no other place in the world.

Queenstown, however, is notoriously expensive. Some great ways to save some money is to get a Motorhome, which is an incredibly popular option or get an Air Bnb with a fully equipped kitchen to have all your meals at home.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Queenstown.

Thanks to Amy from Family Globetrotters

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a stunning fiord in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. This area has incredibly dramatic landscapes, ranging from waterfalls to mountains and even glaciers! It’s also home to seal colonies and many dolphins. If you only have time to do one thing while in the South Island of New Zealand – Milford Sound should be it!

Getting to Milford Sound is a bit of a journey. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Queenstown or a 2-hour drive from Te Anau. Many different tour companies will also take you to Milford Sound if you are not interested in driving this route yourself.

Once you get to Milford Sound, there are a couple of different ways you can experience it. You can take a plane ride over it, go sea kayaking or the most popular option is to take a boat cruise . (The boat cruise is the best option if your kiddos are young.)

After your cruise, you can head to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory! You’ll descend 64 steps underwater into a big viewing area where you can observe the underwater life of Milford Sound.

Milford Sound is also home to some incredible hikes. The Key Summit hike is the most family-friendly hike. And while the Lake Marian hike is steep and rocky, it does offer some great views. (Each takes about 3 hours to do.)

If you don’t want to drive all the way back to Queenstown or Te Anau, you can spend the night in Milford Sound at the Milford Sound Lodge! Be sure to book your stay well in advance of your trip, though, as they do sell out fast. You can also do an overnight cruise on the Milford Sound – one of the best places to stay in New Zealand.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Milford Sound.

Thanks to Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel

Stewart Island

If you visit New Zealand in summer, you should include the lesser known third island on your itinerary – Stewart Island – as one of the places to stay in New Zealand.

Just getting to Stewart Island is an adventure with the 30 minute ferry trip over from the town of Bluff , offering opportunities to see the spectacular scenery and spot some of the unique seabirds that only live in this area.

Stewart Island is a relaxed nature destination. There is no rushing around or crowds here, so it is the perfect location to give kids some space to explore and be active. Nature walks are abundant, with plenty of wildlife to be seen. This is the best place in New Zealand to see the elusive kiwi in the wild , as there are over 20,000 of them on this small island.

The beaches are beautiful with calm water, perfect for wading with the younger children and water sports like kayaking for older kids. E-Bikes are a great way to get around the island and see the many beaches.

To learn more about Stewart Island, its history and nature, take the kids to the small Raikura Museum.

If luck is with you, Stewart Island is a great place to spot the Aurora Australis. Children of all ages with be absolutely awed by the southern lights dancing across the sky. This would be a great addition to your perfect family holiday in New Zealand.

Click here for accommodation options and pricing in Stewart Island.

Thanks to Josie from Josie Wanders

____________________________________________________________________________________

Hopefully you’re not still wondering where to go in New Zealand… as you found this list of awesome places to visit in New Zealand helpful and now have some great ideas for your New Zealand itinerary with kids. You can find more of our New Zealand articles here or if you want to visit other South Pacific countries, you can read all about the Best things to do in Vanuatu with kids or the Best Fiji resorts for families .

1 thought on “26 Places to go on a New Zealand Family Holiday”

I have been to many of the places listed, and so it was great to read about them all from different blogger perspectives. Several of the locations were new to me, and I enjoyed finding out more about them. New Zealand is a fabulous natural playground for children with so much to see and do.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

New Zealand with Kids: The Ultimate 16 Day Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home » Destinations » New Zealand with Kids: The Ultimate 16 Day Itinerary

Sharing is caring!

Heading to New Zealand with kids and want a New Zealand family holiday itinerary that’s totally manageable? This 16-day itinerary is packed with awesome things to do in New Zealand for kids!

This new zealand with kids 16-da y itinerary was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, i will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. all opinions remain my own..

One of my good friends recently traveled to New Zealand with her husband and 4-year-old son. They had such an epic trip that I begged them to write a guest post about New Zealand with kids for Marcie in Mommyland . 

Lucky for all of us, they agreed! Here is their family-friendly 16-day New Zealand itinerary.

I also added some information about fun things to do in New Zealand with kids. And you can also check out her 10 Essential Tips for New Zealand with Kids . Enjoy!

Guest post by Traci Wong

How We Chose New Zealand with Kids

“How about New Zealand? It’s only a 3-hour time difference before daylight savings begins.”

My husband threw this out there after we discovered Costa Rica requires extra vaccinations. And I didn’t want to subject our then 3-year-old to that if we could avoid it.

I know there are lots of places for family vacations in New Zealand. But we needed to consider that the seasons are flipped from what we’re used to in the U.S.

So, we started researching the best places to visit in New Zealand in March! And my husband came up with a detailed itinerary.

A couple months later, we were on our way for our first family trip to New Zealand!

The Perfect 16-Day New Zealand Family Itinerary

Sixteen days really is not enough time for all the amazing things to do with kids in New Zealand!

It was my husband’s third time to New Zealand, so I wanted him to do some things he hadn’t done before.

Below, you can read the itinerary we put together, which was adjusted for bad weather as well as traveling with a 4-year-old.

Sadly, we canceled the one thing we really wanted to do – cruise Milford Sound – due to the worst weather of our trip!

Our original itinerary had us in Queenstown for 3 days and then 3 days traveling to see the fjords. Instead, we ended up staying in Queenstown 3 more days than planned.

So, you’ll see that everything is just a broad overview, so you have room to make changes that fit your family’s needs.

But this itinerary worked so well so that we could see both North Island and South Island in one trip without feeling like we missed out on too much. Enjoy!

Day 1: Auckland

Settling in and finding food.

After 23 hours of traveling, we arrived in  Auckland  on New Zealand’s South Island at 7 AM and walked around the waterfront and downtown Auckland.

Our main objective of our first day in New Zealand was to find good food and a grocery store!

We ended up at a little cafe close to our hotel and had some delicious food.  My son and I made a pact before departing Seattle to “try” foods we wouldn’t normally eat. 

So I had a poached egg!  It was delish on the toast, fried tomato and bacon.

Then, we found a Chinese bakery where I bought red bean bread for breakfast and chocolate cream buns for treats. 

Umm, red bean bread…why haven’t I had this before?  It’s yummy Chinese bread with a swirl of red bean in it.

By now, our room was ready, and we all needed a nap.

When we got up, we walked to a nearby Thai restaurant with great reviews.

We were seated and I saw the price of pad Thai was $27 and told my husband we should find somewhere else.

Seriously, $27 for pad Thai?

We went with a Japanese place that had “average” reviews.  The food was so good and priced in a normal range.

Day 2: Auckland

After a quick ferry ride, we walked a bit in Devonport to see the shops. Then we headed to Mt Victoria, a very large hill we “hiked” up to get a 360 view of Auckland and the harbor.

This was a great way to get a feel for Auckland and get a feel for the area.

Ferry to Devonport

Devonport is one of Auckland’s oldest suburbs. It’s located across the harbor at the southern point of the North Shore.

The ferry ride is about 12 minutes long. Once you are in Devonport, you’ll be able to see the skyline from the top of a volcanic cone!

Drive to Piha Beach

Piha Beach is about a 50-minute drive West from Auckland. It’s a lovely black sand surfing beach on the rugged coast.

If your family is interested in learning how to surf in New Zealand, there are several companies that provide surfing lessons.

The waves can be rough, so it’s not a great beach for little kids to play in the water. And there aren’t very many amenities. But the scenery is stunning!

If you don’t have a car, this  Piha Beach Day Trip with Shuttle  might be a good option.

More Kid-Friendly Activities in Devonport

Visiting the Historic Village:  Dating back to the mid-14th century, this village is one of the earliest Maori (native New Zealander) settlements.

There’s a commemorative stone memorial there. It was then settled in the 1840s by European merchants who realized it was a great spot to see ships arriving in Auckland harbor.

Exploring North Head:  Kids will have fun running around the military tunnels, bunkers and gun emplacements here. For extra fun, bring along a flashlight.

Walking around Victoria Road:  This main street is home to bookshops, cafes, restaurants, and other shops.

Playing at the beach:  Cheltenham Beach is about a 20-minute walk from the ferry terminal and kids can swim in the calm water. There’s also Devonport Beach and Torpedo Bay which are closes to the ferry terminal.

If you’d like to do a bus tour of Devonport, try this  24 Hour Hop On Hop Off Pass  that includes the Devonport Ferry. Plus, kids 4 and under ride free!

Day 3: Rotorua

Glenbrook vintage railroad.

Touted as New Zealand’s premier steam train experience, the  Glenbrook Vintage Railway  lived up to the hype!

We were already planning on visiting because our preschooler loves trains.

In our  New Zealand with kids  research, we discovered that Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends would be there during our dates.

It was only an additional $5 to add this event to our tickets, so we did!

The scenic train ride is 75-minutes long. It includes a stop at the station for guests to learn more about restoration projects and see various equipment.

While you are at Glenbrook Vintage Railway, be sure to take a ride on a Jigger. This motor trolley is one of the vehicles workers used to get to their work sites.

There is also a Hand Jigger where kids can help power this vehicle to move on the tracks!

Glenbrook Vintage Railway offers several kid-friendly events throughout the year, so check out their website to stay up to date.

Drive to Rotorua for the Night

Rot orua  is almost a 3-hour drive from Auckland, so we decided to stay there overnight before returning to Auckland.

It’s a great place for families because it’s filled with forest and lakes with fascinating geothermal activity.

We had just enough time to walk around the lake when we arrived in Rotorua that afternoon.

Find out everything you need to know about  driving in New Zealand  for the first time.

Day 4: Rotorua & Auckland

We checked out of our hotel before 8 AM so we could get to Waiotapu, a geothermal park, before it opened. 

My husband wanted to avoid hordes of tour buses and beat the crowds that would block all the best photos.

Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

Open every day of the year (including holidays) Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is an awesome place!

Here, you can see New Zealand’s most colorful and unique geothermal elements created by thousands of years of volcanic activity.

This is where you’ll find New Zealand’s largest mud pool, which used to be a mud volcano! There are also the champagne pool, Artist’s Palette, Devil’s Bath, and Primrose Terrace.

But the main attraction is the Lady Knox Geyser. Water shoots up 65 feet high at 10:15 AM every single day. Be sure to bring your camera!

The Waiotapu geothermal park is a must.  It’s like nothing I’ve seen before.

Insider tip:  You need to go to Waiotapu and buy your tickets for the park (includes Geyser) before you drive over to the Lady Knox Geyser.  To get a decent seat for the geyser, head over about 9:30 AM.

Whakarewarewa Forest

After the Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, we headed to  The Redwoods & Whakarewarewa Forest .

If you’re looking for free things to do in New Zealand with kids, this is a good choice. It’s a beautiful place to walk around, ride bikes, or go horseback riding.

Families with older kids can pick up a worksheet from the The Redwoods Gift Shop & Visitor Centre.

This is a fun way for kids to learn while they explore Whakarewarewa Forest. You can also download them to a tablet or phone.

While you are there, head over to the  Redwoods Treewalk Rotorua . Here, you’ll find 21 suspension bridges connecting 22 Californian coastal redwoods.

It’s a fantastic way to see Whakarewarewa Forest from above!

Then, we drove back to Auckland.

Another option is to explore a  The Tamaki Maori Village and see the thermal lakes .

Read my full guide about the  Redwoods Treewalk in Rotorua

Day 5: Dunedin

Fly to dunedin.

We said goodbye to Auckland and flew to  Dunedin , which is on the South Island. It’s also the place to find the world’s rarest penguins.

Royal Albatross Centre

One of the coolest things we did here was see the penguins at the  Royal Albatross Centre . You can get a Dunedin Little Blue Penguin Viewing Tour every evening at dusk.

This is when the penguins come ashore and head to their nests. You will walk around the viewing platform and interactive walkway.

The guides will also show you Korora, the world’s smallest penguin!

You can also opt for a 3.5 hours fully guided Little Blue Penguin Tiki Tour. Money raised from either tour is reinvested into the wildlife reserve to assist with the preservation and protection of Pilots Beach and its Little Blue Penguin colony.

If you’d like to make this a whole day tour, check out this  Dunedin and Otago Peninsula Full-Day Nature Tour .

Day 6: Dunedin

Taieri gorge railway.

Like I said earlier, we have a 4-year-old who loves trains. This   Taieri Gorge train ride  took us through some of New Zealand’s most iconic scenery.

We also went through tunnels, bridges and viaducts. The train slowed down at certain scenic points so we could take photos. And there are open air platforms.

Beach Time!

We spent the rest of the day hanging out at the beach. Dunedin has some of the most stunning beaches and coastal scenery in New Zealand.

Here’s a link to some of their  popular Dunedin beach spot s .

Day 7: Dunedin

Shopping in dunedin.

Dunedin is mostly known for their galleries and fashion. They also have a lot of vintage shops and unique jewelry.

But keep in mind that the prices of just about everything is more expensive in New Zealand than it is in the US!

After a week of trekking around New Zealand, my family was ready to lay low.

Day 8: Dunedin

This morning, we walked down to the Cadbury factory.

However, we decided to skip the tour and moved on to the Otago Settlers Museum which featured lots of vehicles for h to explore.  Plus, it was free!

Otago Settlers Museum

The Otago Settlers Museum is one of New Zealand’s newest and most innovative museum experiences.

It’s all about the first Dunedin settlers to the latest people to have called Dunedin their home. You can bring a stroller, there are changing tables, as well as parenting rooms available.

Dunedin is really charming, and they have some big changes underway.

The settler’s museum had models of what they have planned for the waterfront in the next decade. 

Hopefully we’ll be back one day to see it!

If you’re looking for a  half day tour that includes the Otago Settlers Museum , this one is only 4 hours long.

Day 9: Queenstown

Drive to queenstown.

The drive from Dunedin to  Queenstown  is about 3.5 hours and is lovely. We saw lots of sheep, cows, birds, mountains and water.

While most of the roads in New Zealand were very twisty (I took Dramamine) this route only have a few sections like that. These areas have warning signs about the upcoming bends.

We arrived at our hotel before the room was ready, so we took a short walk into town.

Lake Wakatipu is spectacular, and I love how happy my son gets with the sight of water.  I checked out some shops while my husband and son watched the boats.

We walked along the water to get to a park where my son burned some energy and I chatted with a Brazilian expat about how the fjords will be in the rain.

People are really friendly, especially when they know you are from pretty far away.

Find out why you should consider driving from  Queenstown to Christchurch !

Day 10: Queenstown

Skyline queenstown.

Skyline Queenstown is an easy 5-minute walk from central Queenstown.

Here, you can take a gondola ride up to the top of Bob’s Peak to see a stunning view of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables, and Queenstown.

It’s one of the  best things to do in Queenstown with kids .

The gondola ride is short and fast. The view from the top is definitely worth the price of the ride.

Then we walked around and took lots of photos. 

My son got to see parapenting, bungee jumping and luging up close.

At this point, my son was ready for a snack. We nabbed a table with a view and relaxed with fries, chocolate muffin and a milkshake.

My husband headed back out for more photos while we relaxed.

After, we walked along the lake. Something cool we saw were neatly stacked rocks.

After a bit of research, it sounds like they are just something visitors do to leave their mark. And local artists have started doing rock balancing.

Day 11: Queenstown

Spirit of queenstown cruise & farm experience.

We did a day trip to a farm to watch sheep shearing.

The Mt. Nicholas farm experience includes a ride on the Spirit of Queenstown across Lake Wakatipu.

The cruise portion of the day was smooth, and the views were, of course, gorgeous.

First stop on the farm was a ride to the top of the hill for photos. We saw lots of cows a couple horses and a few sheep along the way.

Back down at the farm, Lucky, the 4-month-old baby sheep, followed us around like a puppy! He gave lots of nuzzles.

Then, we saw a quick shearing demo, and a quick tutorial on the differences in wool. Then we took a walk to the sheep where we saw pigs.

The farm’s sheep dog is trained by sight. If orders were called out but she can’t see you, they were ignored.

But as soon as she saw the order being given, she raced off. It was cool watching her work and heard the sheep.

My son got to feed Lady and Lucky some horse pellets.  And since he was the youngest by far (at 4 years old) he also had the honor of bottle feeding Lucky.

Day 12: Queenstown

Fishing in queenstown.

My family enjoys fishing in Washington State, so we were curious about fishing in New Zealand.

Queenstown has a lot of fly-fishing opportunities.

There are lots of local fishing shops that can rent you gear and give you the inside scoop where to go.

My 4-year-old got to wet his line, but he didn’t catch anything.

Then, we enjoyed exploring some of the parks along the lake. My son threw a ton of sticks and rocks into the lake so the “fish could see them.”

Even the rocks here were gorgeous!

Day 13: Wanaka & Queenstown

Drive to wanaka.

The drive to Wanaka from Queenstown is about an hour long. It goes over a mountain with lots of switchbacks and spectacular views.

Puzzling World

Once we got to Wanaka, we headed to  Puzzling World , the wonderful world of weirdness.

There’s a room built at a 15-degree angle. There were some cool illusions which we tried to capture on video.

It kind of made me sick, even though I had Dramamine in me.

This is where we discovered that my 4-year-old has limitless patience with trying to solve a puzzle!

He spent 90 minutes trying and didn’t want to leave until I bought the puzzle for him. Once he took a nap, I worked on solving it myself!

Day 14: Queenstown

Lake cruise on tss earnslaw.

If you have a kid as obsessed with boats and trains as we do, a train and boat excursion are a must. 

My son fell in love with  TSS Earnslaw  (an old steamboat in Queenstown), so we added on an afternoon cruise on our last day there.

The ship has its own mini museum on board, and you can watch them shovel the coal that makes the ship go. 

It was a splurge but well worth it since it made him so happy!

If you’re staying longer, check out this  4 Week New Zealand South Island Itinerary  that covers Nelson Lakes National Park, Mount Cook National Park, Milford Sound and more!

Day 15: Auckland

Fly to auckland.

We flew back to Auckland for one last day to explore before flying home to Seattle.

Takapuna Beach

While this is a nightlife hub, we went during the day to play at the beach.

More Kid-Friendly Activities in Auckland

Auckland Zoo: This is a gorgeous zoo with a wide range of species, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and kiwis. There are also great interactive experiences for younger kids.

Auckland Museum: This is a great place to take kids if you want to learn about New Zealand history and culture. There’s a fun children’s section called “Weird and Wonderful!”

Cornwall Park: Take the littles to run on sprawling lawns, climb playgrounds, and enjoy a picnic. There’s a farm here you can visit, as well as a creamery and cafe.

Day 16: Auckland

We spent our last day in Auckland at the Museum of Transportation and Technology, or MOTAT.

My preschooler loved all the old fire engines and tractors. They have interactive exhibits for the whole family.

If your kids like airplanes, they have an Aviation Display Wing. And they even have a model railway! Definitely a fun way to end our New Zealand adventure!

If your kids like airplanes, they have an Aviation Display Wing. And they even have a model railway!

This was definitely a fun way to end our New Zealand adventure!

I’m typically ready to go home after 10 days on the road and my son asks for his big green house after 5 days.

Neither of us were ready to come home from New Zealand and he constantly asks, “When can we go back?”

New Zealand is a wonderful place to go and explore with a preschooler, especially since most things are free for kids under 5! 

Now that we know our son can do long flights, I can’t wait to start planning our next overseas adventure!

Exploring more of New Zealand? Check out our New Zealand Family Travel posts about Auckland , Christchurch , Dunedin , Queenstown , Rotorua , and Tips about New Zealand with Kids !

Unlock Your Free eBook

Our exclusive eBook, Top 10 Unforgettable Family Adventure Destinations , is your ticket to a world of wonder and excitement. Get your free copy today!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Becca Wilson

Wednesday 22nd of August 2018

This looks like it would be such an amazing experience. I have heard only good things about New Zealand!

marciecheung

Thursday 23rd of August 2018

Me too! It's supposed to have awe-inspiring natural beauty!

WOW! New Zealand has always been on my travel bucket list. You’ve made me have hope I can still realize that dream with my family in tow. This itinerary looks amazing and so family friendly.

Yes! I can't wait to go with my kids in the future!

Your entire trip to New Zealand sounds incredible! I've always wanted to visit New Zealand. =) What a beautiful experience for you and your family. Thanks for sharing it with us!

Yes, my friend and her family had such an amazing trip! So glad she shared it with us!

Tuesday 21st of August 2018

Everything about this trip sounds amazing! Awesome itinerary. It's nice knowing exact ideas on spending the day.

Yes, they were able to do a lot while still having time to rest and relax!

Such an awesome itinerary! Saving this article because I love traveling and it was filled with gems!

Thanks! They really did a lot!

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

If You Seek

Across our incredible country, you can find everything from untamed wilderness to rich culture. There's more to find in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Must do New Zealand experiences

Explore more things to do in New Zealand >

Find things to do

Start planning your new zealand holiday, travel advice and safety, visas and entry requirements long-arrow-right.

Learn more about the available visa options and entry requirements into New Zealand.

COVID-19 travel safety information long-arrow-right

Find out more about New Zealand's COVID-19 travel safety and information.

Flights to New Zealand long-arrow-right

Find more information on finding flights to New Zealand.

Travelling around New Zealand

Driving long-arrow-right.

Get familiar with driving in New Zealand.

Public transport long-arrow-right

Find out how to get around without hiring a vehicle.

Accommodation long-arrow-right

Explore different accommodation options.

Domestic flights long-arrow-right

Flights are easy to catch and are no longer than two hours.

• Share on Facebook
• Share by email

Why New Zealand is one of the world's most family-friendly destinations

Oct 19, 2023 • 8 min read

The kids will love the great outdoors in New Zealand © Cavan Images / Getty Images

Known for its beautiful scenery and adventure activities, New Zealand is on many a bucket list. It's also great for family travel.

Child-friendly experiences are offered nationwide, so parents will have no trouble keeping their entire family entertained. From the tip of Te Waipounamu (the South Island) to the top of Te Ika-a-Māui (the North Island), many major tourist attractions are also outdoor activities.

So whether children are interested in volcanoes and waterfalls, or museums and glow worms, New Zealand has loads to do – plenty of which parents will love too.

Is New Zealand good for kids?

New Zealand is generally a safe country with a relaxed vibe. Playgrounds are very common and those traveling with young children will find baby-changing facilities fairly easily. Many cafes and restaurants provide toys and high chairs, and the many national parks even have stroller-accessible walks.

Most major tourist attractions offer family passes and discounts for students and seniors, while entry for babies and toddlers is usually free. Be sure to ask at the entrance for the best rates.

Where is best in New Zealand for kids?

Safe, friendly, and with ample space to roam, you'd be hard-pressed to find a spot in New Zealand that kids won't love. On the North Island, Taupō is a favorite with Kiwi families thanks to its holiday parks, some with waterslides and heated pools with swim-up bars. The town excels at outdoor adventures, including fishing and sailing, too. Then for rainy days, it has the Landing, an indoor complex with a bowling alley, ninja skills course, bounce park, and mini golf.

International visitors should head to Rotorua , north of Taupō, for its Māori cultural attractions and geothermal features such as massive geysers and the world's largest hot springs. Known as the 'Disneyland of New Zealand', you'll find everything here from the National Kiwi Hatchery (where the country's most iconic residents emerge from their eggs) to zorbing, mountain biking, luging, and ziplining. The Bay of Plenty , Queenstown , and Nelson are also great spots for families.

Best things to do with kids in New Zealand

Best things to do in new zealand with babies and toddlers.

Enjoy a playground with a view Let’s face it: a trip to the playground isn’t always the most exciting for caregivers. But what if it came with a stunning view? That’s often the case in New Zealand. Standouts include Queenstown Gardens with its views of Lake Wakatipu, Lake Tekapo’s shoreline playground, and Auckland’s play structure at Takapuna Beach. Some larger playgrounds even have water parks.

However, even the playgrounds without a view are just as epic. Christchurch ’s Margaret Mahy playground is one of the country’s largest, with a 10m-high (33ft) tower, in-ground trampolines, giant swings, and a scooter park. Oamaru’s steampunk playground at Friendly Bay feels truly futuristic with its giant penny farthings and slides, while Whanganui’s Kowhai Park is a blast from the past with its nursery rhyme-themed play equipment, including Humpty Dumpty on his wall. Set beside the beach with a stegosaurus slide, Dunedin’s Marlow Park (aka “Dinosaur Park”) is bound to appeal to your budding paleontologist.

Visit a farm New Zealand has a multitude of working farms that welcome families. For the youngest travelers, there’s nothing quite like the wide-eyed wonder of meeting the animals up close and seeing the country’s incredible farm dogs at work.

In Queenstown, take the TSS Earnslaw steamboat across the lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Or make the one-hour drive to Wānaka Lavender Farm, home to Kunekune pigs (a breed native to NZ), llamas, and goats. Likewise, in kid-friendly Rotorua , you’ll find the Agrodome , an institution known for its farm shows.

Best things to do in New Zealand with kids

Wonder at glow worms New Zealand’s glow worms, arachnocampa luminosa, can only be found here and in Australia. While they live outdoors throughout the country, the most popular place to see them is in the Waitomo Caves . Situated an hour south of Auckland, the caves are just as famous for their impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. 

If you’re visiting Milford Sound/Piopiotahi you can do a glow worm tour of the caves in nearby Te Anau. You can also see glow worms for free at Waipu Caves (best for older kids), Everett Park Scenic Reserve in Taranaki, the Main Garden in Wellington Botanical Gardens, and the Glow Worm Dell in Hokitika .

Take a cruise along the mighty Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Fiordland National Park is a bucket list destination for many visitors to New Zealand – and it’s a great place to go with children. Animal-loving families should try the wildlife cruise along Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where you can see Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and Fiordland crested penguins. The thundering waterfalls will wow the kids.

However, instead of making a day trip from Queenstown – which can take upwards of 12 hours for a round-trip – stay overnight in nearby Te Anau.

Visit Auckland’s SkyCity complex The Sky Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the southern hemisphere and a must on any Auckland itinerary. The top boasts sweeping views of the city and the Hauraki Gulf islands. There are also glass panels on the floor, which many kids love to jump on.

The SkyCity complex is also where you’ll find Wētā Workshop Unleashed – where the creative studio behind Lord of the Rings offers immersive tours of fantasy film sets – and the All Blacks Experience . Even if they’re not rugby fans, sports-crazed kids will love coming face-to-face with the team doing the haka  and testing their skills on an interactive sports field.

Dig your own hot water pool As a geothermal country, there are a few spots in New Zealand where thermal water flows just below the surface, mingling with the cooler waters of an ocean or lake, and visitors can make their own hot tubs by digging a hole in the sand.

Hot Water Beach in the Coromandel is a favorite, although it can get crowded. Lesser-visited hot water beaches can be found in Kawhia in the Waikato and on Moutohorā Island outside Whakatāne.

See bubbling mud around Rotorua Rotorua is the best place to see geothermal action in New Zealand. Families can visit Kuirau Park in the town center to see bubbling mud and steaming ponds for free. For a more immersive (and impressive) experience, head to Waimangu Volcanic Valley for steamy bush walks, where you’ll see the world’s largest hot springs and geysers.

Learn about NZ history and Māori culture at Te Papa Te Papa , the Museum of New Zealand in Wellington, is renowned for its interactive and fun displays, which include an earthquake simulator. Best of all, entry is free (with a fee for some exhibitions).

In addition to the regular exhibits, there are two exploratory play-based Discovery Centres for kids under 12, focused on Māori and Pasifika cultures. Pre-schoolers can spend their time at StoryPlace, which offers three storytelling and play sessions a day for just NZ$3.

Discover Māori culture on the water Get out on the water, get some exercise, and learn about Māori culture on a traditional waka (canoe) tour. Children can paddle with the grown-ups and hear enthralling tales of ancient Polynesian navigators and the indispensable role of the waka in Māori history and culture.

You can do waka tours in several places, including with Waka Abel Tasman in the Nelson/Tasman region.

Meet the local wildlife Many visitors to New Zealand would love to see a kiwi up close, but catching sight of one in the wild can be difficult. (They are endangered, after all.) To improve your chances, try visiting a hatchery or predator-free wildlife sanctuary. The National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua or an overnight stay on Kapiti Island are both good options.

For marine animals, head to Kaikourā, where you can see sperm whales, Hector’s dolphins, and fur seals. For little blue penguins, head further south to the Banks Peninsula or Oamaru’s Blue Penguin Colony.

Best things to do in New Zealand with tweenagers and teenagers

Go behind the scenes with Wētā Workshop If your family loves film, art, or augmented reality, take a look into the heart of New Zealand’s film industry. Visit Wellington's Wētā Workshop for a glimpse into the creation of iconic film props and effects.

Or, for a more tangible experience, visit the Hobbiton film set in Matamata and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Shire, exploring hobbit holes and visiting the Green Dragon Inn.

Try an adventure sport Known as an adventurer’s paradise, New Zealand caters to thrill-seekers of all ages. Popular and accessible adventure activities include luge rides, ziplining over forests, jet-boating through canyons, or zorbing in Rotorua. There are even whitewater rafting trips geared towards multi-generational families, like those offered by Queenstown-based tour operator Family Adventures.

Mountain biking is also a great option for older children and teenagers, with bike rentals and tours readily available in most tourist centers. Try Rotorua's Whakarewarewa Forest and Queenstown's 7 Mile Bike Park.

Planning tips

• Public transport can be challenging, so hiring a car (and car seats if necessary) is the best way to get around.
• The sun can be intense in New Zealand, so apply sunscreen regularly. Children should wear rash shirts (long-sleeved swimming shirts) at the beach.
• Top 10 Holiday Parks offer relatively affordable accommodation and on-site activities for children including impressive playgrounds. You don’t have to stay in a tent or a motorhome, as most offer motel rooms or cabins in addition to campsites.

This article was first published May 3, 2021 and updated Oct 19, 2023.

Explore related stories

Nov 4, 2020 • 6 min read

Boasting prime job prospects, an appreciation for diversity and an active social scene, these are 10 of the best cities for expats.

Jul 2, 2020 • 9 min read

May 18, 2020 • 4 min read

Apr 3, 2020 • 4 min read

Feb 24, 2020 • 6 min read

Dec 4, 2019 • 7 min read

Oct 4, 2019 • 6 min read

Jul 25, 2019 • 5 min read

May 24, 2019 • 3 min read

Jun 26, 2018 • 6 min read

7 tips and mistakes to know when planning a family trip to New Zealand

One glance at a globe makes it abundantly clear just how far New Zealand truly is from the U.S.

More than 7,000 miles away from our home in Houston, the island country has long attracted outdoorsy types keen on exploring its beautiful mountains, fjords, volcanoes and beaches.

So, when my family of four decided to plan a March trip around our work and school schedules, we knew we were in for a grand adventure that we wouldn't forget anytime soon. Sure, there would be long flights involved, plus a packed itinerary to maximize our limited time in this far-flung destination, but we were up for the challenge.

Recognizing we'd only have 10 days on the ground, we decided to mostly stick near the cities and fly between the different areas we visited, which included Wellington, Queenstown and Auckland.

Despite our inability to venture to more remote parts of the country like many visitors do, we still managed to experience some of the best things to do in New Zealand as a family. However, we learned a few lessons and made a mistake or two along the way.

If you're planning a family trip to New Zealand — or hope to one day — here are seven things to keep in mind, plus a few recommendations for three of New Zealand's most popular cities to visit.

Related: Flying 14 hours in a 'couch' from New Zealand

The current exchange rate makes things quite affordable

The exchange rate from U.S. dollars to New Zealand dollars favors American travelers ... at least, for the time being. At the time of writing, $1 equals NZ$1.62, which means that the NZ$100 activity or meal you enjoy will cost you about $62.

It's not an all-time best exchange rate for Americans, but it is better than it's been for most of the last two decades, making everything from Uber rides to meals, hotels and activities a lot more affordable. So, if you're sticking to a tight budget, you may want to aim to visit sooner rather than later.

Pro tip: Be sure to pay in New Zealand dollars when using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid any unnecessary charges. Your bank will handle the conversion to U.S. dollars.

Related: How to get to (and stay in) New Zealand on points and miles

You don't (usually) have to tip

Tipping service staff is typically not expected in New Zealand since workers in the country are generally paid a living wage. As someone who is very used to U.S. tipping culture, I honestly found this to be incredibly refreshing.

Back home, a $15 breakfast would set me back about $20 by the time gratuities are factored in. But in New Zealand, a NZ$15 breakfast cost me about $9 thanks to the exchange rate and the no-tipping policy.

We did experience some exceptions to this rule while in Auckland. There, several restaurants displayed signs encouraging tipping.

However, in Queenstown and Wellington, we didn't have to factor in tips when calculating our daily expenses for eating out and activities. I would add a couple of dollars to Uber rides, but we otherwise didn't tip.

Credit cards are widely accepted

Unlike some destinations where it's still best to bring cash, New Zealand is easy to visit with only a credit card. That's because credit cards are widely (and almost universally) accepted. Most U.S.-based credit cards will require a signature every time you swipe, but they work just fine.

That said, a 2% credit card usage fee is pretty common, so be prepared for that trade-off if you decide to lean on cards more than cash for your purchases.

Related: Best credit cards for international travel

You may not need a car rental to get around

We had planned to rent a car in several New Zealand destinations we visited, but after the first couple of days in Wellington, it became clear that that wouldn't be necessary.

Naturally, you'll need a car rental if you decide to plan a road trip or spend a lot of time exploring smaller locations, but since we were there for a limited amount of time and spent most of our time in and around cities, Ubers made the most sense for us.

To put numbers to it, during our 10 days in New Zealand, we took a total of 15 Uber rides, with the average cost per ride coming in at $14.59. That total included several airport trips and our longer rides while in Queenstown, as we stayed a bit outside of town at the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa.

Know, though, that Uber vehicles are typically maxed out at five people, including the driver. Most of our rides were tight squeezes for the four of us due to the prevalence of compact vehicles. So, if you need more space, a car rental may be the best way to go.

Related: 9 rental car rewards programs you need to know about

Taxis cost much more than Uber

While we mostly relied on Uber to get from point A to point B in New Zealand, we grabbed taxis a handful of times. Every single time we used a taxi, our wallet immediately regretted that choice.

During our visit, cab rides were consistently two to three times as expensive as Ubers. So, unless you really need the convenience of that cab idling at the curb, fire up the Uber app and save yourself a lot of money in the process.

Related: Frequent Uber or Lyft user? These are the best credit cards for you

The weather is in charge

While I suggest booking some of your must-do activities before the trip to ensure availability and potentially benefit from an advance-booking discount, keep some flexibility in your schedule as the weather in New Zealand — no matter where you are — can change suddenly and dramatically.

In Queenstown, for example, you'll want to book your outdoor adventures on the first day or two of your stay so you have buffer days to switch them to in the event of rain getting in the way. Also have some rainy day activities in mind so you don't waste precious time in New Zealand just sitting around waiting for sunny skies.

For our trip, we saved museum visits and indoor rock climbing for those days when the skies looked ominous. Of course, when the sun does return, you'll want to be sure you're ready to make the most of it.

For instance, while we had planned to save the Wellington Cable Car and botanical gardens for one particular day, we improvised and added that excursion to our schedule one sunny afternoon as the next day's forecast looked like it'd be a washout. Sure, we were a little tired since that ended up being a particularly full day, but we knew that that excursion wouldn't have been nearly as enjoyable in the rain.

Related: Why Aotearoa-New Zealand is the best international destination of the year

Most activities have a family discount

Before purchasing individual tickets to any activity in New Zealand, research whether a family package includes adult and child tickets at a bundled discount. Almost every activity we did was cheaper if we booked via the family plan rather than pricing out the tickets individually.

For example, the Shotover Jet we did in Queenstown charges NZ$139 ($86) for adults and NZ$77 ($48) for children, but instead of a family of four costing NZ$432 ($267), you'll pay just NZ$355 ($220) when opting for the family package.

Another example of this is the Skyline Queenstown gondola, which charges NZ$46 ($28) for adults and NZ$33 ($20) for children. Instead of paying NZ$158 ($98) for a family of four, choose the family plan discount for NZ$133 ($82).

Planning a little in advance also has its financial advantages. For example, the zip line excursion we did in Queenstown has a 15% discount if you book online at least three days in advance. Most activities allow you to change your plans up until 24 hours before your excursion, so it can make sense to book ahead but maintain some flexibility thanks to those common policies.

Things to do in Auckland with a family

While the odds are high that your travel plans will take you through Auckland while you're in New Zealand, I'd advise against spending too many nights there. I have nothing against Auckland, but spending time in a large city is hard to justify when there are so many awe-inspiring landscapes and destinations to explore.

Waiheke Island

Should you spend a little time in the Auckland area, I highly recommend taking a 30-minute ferry ride to Waiheke Island , which is packed with wineries and beaches and has a laid-back island vibe. An added bonus: It's inexpensive and easy to explore by bus.

To purchase bus tickets for getting around the island, simply stop by the bus kiosk at the Waiheke Island ferry terminal. Cards are loaded with an amount of your choosing based on the number of times you expect to get on and off the bus.

Each bus ride will cost around $1, so a full day on the island would likely require $5 to $6 per card, per person.

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves

For us, no visit to Auckland would be complete without an excursion to the Hobbiton Movie Set to view where the hobbits "lived" in "The Lord of the Rings" movie trilogy, plus a trek through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves . While these destinations are several hours outside the city, both are phenomenal if you want to experience a mix of natural and human-made wonders.

We booked a 12-hour guided tour to see both and travel by bus. It was a long day, but it was ultimately worth the payoff as a "Lord of the Rings"-loving family. If you couldn't care less about the movie, the journey may not be worth it, though it was unquestionably a beautiful part of the country.

Photos were not allowed at the glowworm caves, but trust me: They were unlike anything I'd ever seen. The fluorescent blue ceiling of worms you float beneath during your guided boat ride through the caves created a peaceful ambiance that reminded me of a Disney ride.

Where to stay in Auckland

Although there are several points hotels in Auckland, one of the best is the luxurious Park Hyatt Auckland , which is walkable to the ferry terminal and relatively affordable by Park Hyatt standards. A Category 5 Hyatt property, room rates range between 17,000 and 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night. I wholeheartedly recommend it for both its fabulous infinity pool and its spacious and stylish rooms.

If you happen to use a Hyatt Globalist suite upgrade or points to secure a suite (as we did), know that the 764-square-foot Harbour Suite is a fantastic treat. Offering the same layout as the Park Suite (just without the harbor view), the Harbour Suite was gorgeous and functional, with an enormous bathroom, a huge living space and a separate sleeping area. The thoughtful design allowed us to have a rollaway bed for our teen in the living room, a table to eat dinner at and plenty of space for all our jackets, shoes, bags, backpacks and more so we could easily stay organized.

Since the occupancy limit for rooms and suites here is three people, know that most families will need to book a connecting room. We reserved ours with cash via the American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts program so we could use the annual $200 hotel credit we still had on my Platinum Card® from American Express . You can also reserve connecting rooms with World of Hyatt points, but remember that only standard connecting rooms (meaning ones that don't connect to suites) are bookable this way.

Things to do in Queenstown with a family

While it's true that Queenstown is great for seriously adventurous activities, such as paragliding, bungee jumping and skydiving, you don't have to be quite that extreme to have a great time on the South Island.

Even though free-falling wasn't on our family's agenda this trip — believe it or not, even young children can participate in paragliding and skydiving here once the weight requirements have been met, which start around 44 pounds for paragliding — we still had amazing adventures in Queenstown that I'd fully recommend.

Shotover Jet

To start, I cannot suggest the Shotover Jet — a fast-paced boat ride through the Shotover Canyons, located about a 10-minute shuttle ride outside of town — enough. This twin-engine boat does 360-degree turns, zooms around the canyon in just a few inches of water and goes over 50 mph.

We had smiles (sometimes accompanied by water splashes) plastered on our faces the entire time.

Onsen Hot Pools

If you want to relax after a thrilling ride through the canyons, visit the Onsen Hot Pools , which overlook the same river the Shotover Jet boats use. Here, you have access to a private hot tub, which can accommodate up to four people, for an hour. Children are allowed until 4 p.m. daily.

While the views from the hot tub are more than worth the fee, know that your rental also comes with a drink and snack per person. Options include juice, wine, beer, chocolate and ice cream, so there's plenty for both adults and kids.

Skyline Queenstown

A visit to Queenstown should, without question, include a ride on the Skyline Queenstown gondola. You'll not only get to take in breathtaking mountain and lake views, but you'll also have the chance to enjoy a few laps on the luge track.

Packages that include the luge, gondola and even lunch or dinner are available. There are family packages that bundle all these activities with various numbers of luge rides, too, to make the experience slightly less expensive. The family of four package that includes the gondola ride, three luge rides per person and a buffet dinner came to NZ$421 ($261).

While the buffet was certainly decent, it was just a buffet, so if you're strapped for cash, consider a package that does not include that meal and instead eat in town at a place like Fergburger , where mouthwatering burgers start around NZ$16 ($10). My family loved the gondola and luge, though, making it one of our favorite parts of our trip. The adults in our group were satisfied after three luge rides, while the kids were eager for a couple of extra rounds.

Ziptrek Ecotours

For an additional activity to add to your gondola and luge day, book an outing with Ziptrek . In addition to getting to enjoy various zip lines, your family will learn a bit about New Zealand's conservation efforts.

We did the package with two zip lines and a drop, which ended up being the perfect family activity, as it was way more thrill-inducing than we had expected.

Where to stay in Queenstown

You'll find a few accommodation options in the heart of Queenstown. However, we chose to stay at the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa so we could book a family-friendly, two-bedroom suite.

Despite the hotel's interior feeling dated and overdue for renovations, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The more removed location did mean we had to take an Uber or water taxi to town each day, but the sweeping lake and mountain views from the property more than made up for the slight inconvenience.

Things to do in Wellington with a family

Wellington was the surprise hit of our family trip to New Zealand. We expected to like it, but we didn't realize how much we'd love it.

The city was very compact, making it easy for our family to get around and try out different activities without committing a full day to one adventure.

Wellington Cable Car

The Wellington Cable Car is a must-do for families or anyone looking for a short, affordable ride to experience some of the city's best views. As a bonus, there's a light show in the tunnel along the way.

Once you reach the top, you'll find the entrance to the free botanical garden. The playground — with a fun zip line — is also just a five- to 10-minute walk from there, so don't skip that if you have your kids along for the ride.

Wellington Museum and Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

The Wellington and Te Papa museums are solid options for some educational (but fun) activities when you need a break from New Zealand's unpredictable weather. Both accessible from almost anywhere in town, the museums are free to visit, though a donation is suggested.

The Te Papa Museum could easily fill at least a half day for families or adults. Kids will likely appreciate the house that simulates earthquakes, the "Moana" references and the animal exhibits, while adults shouldn't miss the "Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War" exhibit.

Wētā Workshop

If your group includes movie buffs, especially fans of "The Lord of the Rings," be sure to check out Wētā Workshop , where many of the film industry's costumes, prosthetics, props and more are created. Wētā Workshop is also responsible for the massive soldiers you'll see in the "Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War" exhibit at the Te Papa Museum.

You can visit the free small museum and gift shop or book one of the 90-minute tours. Should the tour be your preference, be sure to book it well in advance, as it frequently sells out.

With locations in both Wellington and Auckland, Fergs is an ideal spot to spend a few hours on a rainy day.

In Wellington, you'll find the indoor rock climbing venue by the waterfront. It has multiple climbing areas for various ages and abilities.

Admission lasts all day, so you could burn off some energy in the morning and return in the afternoon, making it possible to time your visit around the weather on any given day.

Wellington Zoo

On a sunny day, head to the Wellington Zoo , which is just a few minutes away by car from the center of town. It has some fun exhibits ranging from roaming wallabies to tigers, giraffes and red pandas.

Like Wellington itself, the zoo was clean, happy, interesting and large enough to be engaging while still small enough to be manageable for an afternoon.

Cuba Street

Whether you crave a prime photo-op or a fantastic meal, Cuba Street shouldn't be missed. The area is home to a photo-friendly rainbow-painted street, plus a variety of tasty eateries serving everything from Malaysian fare to handmade pasta.

Where to stay in Wellington

If you want to use points for lodging in Wellington, consider the InterContinental Wellington and/or the DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington . Both sit in great locations and allow families of four to share one standard room if desired, a rarity in some parts of New Zealand.

Bottom line

While my family loves closer-to-home getaways such as Disney World and Caribbean cruises, New Zealand easily ranks as one of our favorite family trips of all time.

It may sound daunting to take your family to the other side of the world, but if you're willing to take that leap of faith and give it a go, I can assure you you won't regret it. You'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping scenery you can barely believe is real, interactions with some of the friendliest people around, a number of adventurous activities, amazing coffee and plentiful playgrounds, among other highlights.

Best of all, you'll make memories that will last a lifetime — just as I know mine will.

Related reading:

• Searching for a unicorn: My dream trip to New Zealand on points and miles
• Are we there yet? 10 tips for surviving long-haul flights with kids
• Your guide to flying with kids of every age
• Everything you need to know about getting your child's passport

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum Card, click here .

• About the Blogger
• About the Globetrotters
• Community Groups
• Privacy Policy
• PR & Media Inquiries
• Guest Opportunities
• Giveaways & Offers

• Best Destinations
• Explore My City
• Australia & Oceania
• Middle East
• Pregnancy Travel
• Baby Travel
• Toddler Travel
• Tween & Teen Travel
• Theme Park Travel
• Travel Health
• Travel Photography
• Flying with Kids
• Beach Vacation
• Camping, Hiking & Outdoor Adventures
• Travel Toys
• Baby Travel Gear
• Toddler Travel Gear
• Outdoor Gear
• Airline Reviews
• Accommodation Reviews
• Attraction Reviews
• Book Reviews
• Travel Gifts
• Packing Lists
• Expat Life Blog
• Expat Money Matters
• Global Parenting Interviews
• Expat Entrepreneurs
• Family Life in Abu Dhabi
• Booking Tools

Travel to New Zealand with Kids – Unmissable Family Highlights in NZ

Travelling to New Zealand with kids is a wonderful opportunity for all kinds of adventures.

Here we’re going to inspire you with some of the most beautiful and famous spots in New Zealand that you’ll want on your New Zealand family vacation itinerary.

Getting Around New Zeland

Auckland zoo, hobbiton movie set, glow worm caves, rainbows end theme park, zorb ball rolling park, giants house, tamaki heritage, the abel tasman track, buller gorge swing bridge, bill richardson transport world, alpine aqualand, fyffe view ranch.

Before we explain the unique spots you’ll want to visit, it’s worth thinking about how you’re going to get from place to place.

As you begin planning your family trip to NZ, remember that renting a car, campervan , or motorhome is a good idea if you are planning to see as much of the country as possible. And as they say, the journey is sometimes better than the destination! Consider hiring a car to make the most out of your New Zealand travels. With a wide selection of vehicles and convenient pickup locations, a car will offer you great freedom to explore the country’s stunning landscapes at your ideal pace.

Alternatively, getting from one place to the next in your own spacious vehicle with everything that you need will make your family trip to NZ even more convenient. Today, getting used motorhomes in NZ has never been easier. A motor home that has a bed, fridge, table, and couch that could seat more than four people will be a great way to travel. 

You can drive from hotel to hotel with a car, but you may also want to take advantage of the vast and beautiful outdoors here and spend at least a few nights camping – making a motorhome your best choice. Your kids will love the experience, and there are loads of options whether you want to sleep under the stars or inside a roomy motorhome (with a private shower!).

Read up on the different vehicle options, camping rules and driving tips for tourists in NZ here . For starters, did you know that Kiwis drive on the left-hand side of the road?

Now grab a map and plot your itinerary for these kid-friendly New Zealand attractions! Some are located close together, so take advantage of joining a couple in one day to get the most out of your holiday.

North Island

Known for its sprawling national parks, volcanic activity and smart cosmopolitan cities, New Zealand’s North Island offers plenty of activities for families with children of all ages:

Flying into Auckland is a common starting point for a family trip to New Zealand, and no visit to this incredible city would be complete without seeing the Auckland Zoo. Boasting 1400 animals covering a staggering 135 different species, a trip to this diverse and kid-friendly attraction is a bare necessity during your visit to Auckland.

You can see everything from cute meerkats to monkeys, penguins to Galapagos tortoises , either with a guide or taking yourselves around this entertaining venue. Plenty of eateries if the kids get hungry along the way!

Additionally, they offer many kid-friendly activities to keep the little ones entertained and learn something new about different animals in the zoo. Kids can become trainee keepers for carnivores, primates, and ectotherms. An unforgettable experience they’ll surely treasure and remember for the rest of their lives.

Less than a two-hour drive from Auckland, the Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for Lord of The Rings fans, young and old. Guided tours take around two hours, and children up to eight years of age enjoy free admission. There are 44 attractions to see, including hobbit holes and a great pub – it’s thirsty work! Around 3 hours is enough for this fun family travel activity in New Zealand.

Imagining Frodo walking along the hills of the Shire would be a delight for any Tolkien fan. As vividly as Tolkien described the magical place in the book, you’ll be able to experience it in real life. You may even recreate the scene when Gandalf arrived riding a carriage on the day of Bilbo Baggin’s birthday to take the ring from Bilbo after his splendid party when all the amazing fireworks finished lighting up the sky.

Once you have had your fill of the hobbits, a drive of just 18 minutes will bring you to the magical Waitomo Glow Worm Caves. One of the most popular natural kid-friendly activities in New Zealand, visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and view thousands of stunning glow worms along the way. Take a boat ride through the grotto, with thousands and thousands of twinkling lights – but they are glow worms! Children can explore with torches and hunt out the worms! Check out the video on the NZ tourism website for a taste of what the caves are like.

A dream kingdom for kids of all ages, Auckland’s Rainbows End Theme Park, located in Manukau, serves up hours of entertainment in the form of rides, play areas, restaurants, tours and more. Family discounts are available and special packages are on offer for visitors bringing a birthday boy or girl with them. Kidz Kingdom is a must for playtime. ‘Stratosphere’ is a ride for the older kids – it turns the rider upside down as it speeds away.

Located in Rotorua, there is nothing quite like the experience of rolling down a hill in an inflatable ball (see-through of course). Roll down Mt Ngongotaha or choose the sidewinder track to see how your negotiation skills are. This is the only zorb attraction currently in New Zealand, owned and run by the original inventors – see how you can get a free media kit from your Zorb experience here!

A ‘haunted’ theme park attraction, the older children will love it, if they like being scared to bits. Demons, ghouls and zombies call this home! This is a live entertainment attraction with actors playing the parts and likely to jump out at you with no warning. Not for the faint-hearted, but great fun. 4 sections – Haunted House, The Fog, The Woods and Disturbia. Located in a former hospital, the atmosphere is incredible.

Not to be missed, the capital city of Wellington is packed full of family-friendly attractions. Te Papa – the National Museum of New Zealand should be your starting point before taking on the indoor playground Capital E on Queens Wharf, and of course, no visit to Wellington is complete without a trip on the iconic red Wellington Cable Car. Catch our complete guide to Wellington with kids over here!

South Island

New Zealand’s South Island , also known as Te Waipounamu, is the larger of the two islands and is known for its magnificent mountains, glaciers and lakes. While the cosmopolitan city of Queenstown is a great jumping-off point for a visit to the South Island, there is so much more to do and see if you venture a little further afield.

A firm favourite with kids and adults alike, The Giants House, which has been featured in numerous films and television programmes, is a treasure trove of contemporary art, sculptures, mosaics and acres of terraced gardens. Playful and elegant, you will want to allow plenty of time to explore this unique building and its surroundings. Sit amongst the strange sculptures for a great photographic experience.

A fascinating journey back in time, the Tamaki Maori Village is an experience not to be missed. Guided tours are available to help visitors to discover the ancient world of the Maoris and to learn more about the traditions of these proud warriors. Children can also have their faces painted as well as taking part in a special Haka (if your kids know rugby, they will love this).

The South Island offers endless opportunities for hiking (or tramping, as the Kiwis call it) and there is no better than the Abel Tasman Track. Winding along the coastline, this easy trail does not require heavy hiking boots or specialist equipment, making it perfect for families visiting New Zealand with young children. Get inspired by pictures and practical visitor information here .

You can add to the fun with kayaking (minimum age 8) and taking water taxis to different points along the route. No need to worry, there are 2-person kayaks so you can share with your kids. For those looking to make hiking a feature of their holiday, reasonably priced accommodation is available along the track.

Take a slightly scary experience and walk this swing bridge (the longest one in the country) or go on the zip ride across the open space. You can also get up to speed on a jetboat, or why not try panning for gold as a more leisurely option for family fun.

For the best experience on wheels, the Bill Richardson Transport World in Invercargill is the perfect way to spend a rare rainy day in New Zealand’s South Island. With exhibits, a movie theatre, exclusive collections and a great restaurant, this is the ideal day out for kids with an interest in vehicles and transport.

If your children are more like water babies, take them to Alpine Aqualand, where they can swim to their hearts’ content. Try the indoor pool if the weather is inclement, plus flumes, gym and relaxation areas make it perfect for the entire family travelling in New Zealand. Alpine Aqualand is fully supervised.

A family-friendly ranch-style adventure park where you can get up close and personal with some of the animals. Some are fenced off, but you can still pony ride, and pet the adorable deer or hand-feed them. There’s a quirky little gift shop where the kids can spend their pocket money on souvenirs.

Both of NZ’s main islands offer limitless opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, water sports, museums and more. As well as the North and South islands, tourists can take a trip to Stewart Island, which is located just 30 kilometres south of South Island. Here, visitors can enjoy stunning beaches and water sports as well as taking the time to explore this quaint island which has a population of just 402 people.

Both North Island and South Island are well worth a visit during your family travel to New Zealand, and you will never run short of things to do. Due to the vast size of the country, it is a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance to make sure that you make the absolute most of every minute of your visit.

Save it for later

Like it? Share it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Advertise with us
• Work with us
• Caravan & Camping with Kids
• Ski & Snowboard with Kids
• The LUXE Edit
• Family Matters by HWK
• Newsletter Signup
• Magazine Subscriptions

New Zealand family-friendly travel guide

About new zealand.

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, around 1,600 kilometres off the East Coast of Australia, New Zealand is made up of two main islands, North and South, and hundreds of smaller islands, most of which are uninhabited. From the rugged coastlines, sandy beaches and ancient forests of the North Island to the snow capped mountains and fjords of the South Island, New Zealand is renowned for its stunning and diverse natural scenery, attracting travellers from all over the world. Its cosmopolitan cities such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch provide families with plenty to see and do, while smaller towns offer an authentically local ‘Kiwi’ experience.

New Zealand holiday ideas

What’s new at Puzzling World

Puzzling World is a unique attraction that fascinates people of all ages. A visit...

Win a New Zealand snow holiday valued at $6,090

Including accommodation, lift passes, breakfast and transport

New Zealand’s Best Family Ski Resorts

Right on our doorstep, New Zealand is the perfect ski destination.

26 things to do in New Zealand with kids

Discover glaciers, rolling hills, soaring mountains and mirror-image lakes, New...

New Zealand facts

Official language(s), emergency number, helpful information, where to go, best time to go to new zealand, passport and visa requirements, getting in and around for families, food and drinks that kids will love, electricity, safety and health precautions, basic phrases, most photographed places.

Often referred to as the “City of Sails”, Auckland is a beautiful and lively harbour city, offering a host of excellent hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions. Visit the 328-metre Sky Tower , where you can enjoy lunch or dinner in the city’s only revolving restaurant, enjoy magnificent views from the observation deck, climb to the top of the radio tower, and if you dare, bungy jump off the side.

Animal lovers of all ages will especially enjoy a visit to Auckland Zoo , where they can learn about nature and wildlife through a range of fun experiences, while inquisitive minds satisfy their curiosities at the highly interactive Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).

Around the North Island

In Auckland, catch a ferry to Waiheke Island for great beaches, cafes and wineries, or to the quaint north shore suburb of Devonport . Visit Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium , and walk-through its giant aquarium as giant sea creatures swim over you, before exploring t he Antarctic Ice Adventure, home to New Zealand’s only colony of Sub-Antarctic penguins.  If you’re really up for an adventure, tackle the Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy .

Other places to visit on the North Island include Rotorua with its geothermal parks, Tamaki Maori Village , Splash Planet , and Skyline Rotorua , Waitomo for its glow worm caves , Wellington for its famous Te Papa Museum , and the spectacular Bay of Islands region, home to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula and its iconic Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.

New Zealand is excellent for snow holidays, skiing and snowboarding, particularly in the South Island , with Queenstown being the perfect place to base yourself. The ski resorts of The Remarkables , Coronet Peak and Mount Hutt are all close by, while Cardrona and Treble Cone are close to Wanaka .

Queenstown also boasts plenty to do off the snow. Visit the historic mining village of Arrowtown and try your hand at gold panning, take the steepest gondola ride in the Southern Hemisphere to the top of Bob’s Peak then luge back down with Skyline Queenstown , and enjoy a scenic cruise on the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu .

Around the South Island

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the South Island offers plenty of opportunities for getting the heart racing and adrenaline pumping. You can go white water rafting , bungy jumping , jet boating , kayaking, horse riding and so much more – just be sure to check the age, height and weight restrictions before you go.

For something a little less action-packed, go whale watching in Kaikoura , get a taste of rural country life and try sheep shedding in the Southern Alps, and visit the beautiful European-inspired cities of Christchurch and Dunedin . Or, for a truly immersive experience, hire a campervan and explore the stunning scenery of  Milford and Doubtful Sounds .

Anytime is a good time to visit New Zealand. The seasons and temperatures are similar to those of southern Australia. The northern islands are subtropical, while the south is temperate. The mountainous regions can get very cold and experience snow in late autumn and winter – great for winter sports. However, the weather can change unexpectedly, so its always best to go fully prepared.

Summer in New Zealand is from December to February. The average temperature is 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, and 235mm of rainfall.

Autumn in New Zealand is from March to May. The average temperature is 17 to 21 degrees Celsius, and 310mm of rainfall.

Winter in New Zealand is from June to August. The average temperature is 12 to 16 degrees Celsius, and 415mm of rainfall.

Spring in New Zealand is from September to November. The average temperature is 16 to 19 degrees Celsius, and 310mm of rainfall.

Australians don’t require a visa to enter New Zealand but must hold a current passport valid for at least three months after the date of departure.

Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch airports

New Zealand is about a three-hour flight from the East Coast of Australia. Several airlines regularly fly from Australian capital cities to New Zealand so you should be able to get a flight any day of the week. Air New Zealand offers flights daily from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to Auckland and four times a week from Perth. From Adelaide, you must first stopover in Melbourne or Sydney. Direct flights are also available from Sydney and Melbourne to Wellington and Christchurch.

Several transport options are available from the airport if you haven’t arranged a transfer with your hotel. Regular buses and shuttle services operate from the airports to the city centre, there are always taxis waiting outside the Arrivals hall, and car hire is also available.

One of the most interesting (and most expensive) ways to get out of Auckland Airport is by a helicopter flight to anywhere in the country you choose, which can be booked in advance or at the airport.

Boat, bus, and train

Boat and car ferry services are available between the islands – InterIslander will transport you across the Cook Strait from Wellington at the bottom of the North Island to Picton at the top of the South Island, and vice versa.

Both the North and South Islands have a reliable and extensive public bus system, and there are also smaller, cheaper shuttle buses, some which cater especially to travellers.

Train travel in New Zealand is comfortable and relatively fast, although the rail service isn’t particularly extensive.

Car or campervan

Car or campervan hire is one of the best ways to get around New Zealand. The roads are well maintained and signposted and there are hundreds of scenic drives to explore with the family.

New Zealand fish ‘n’ chips is a Kiwi classic that the whole family will love. When ordering, ask for the local fish or try the ‘ Paua’ (abalone) fritter. Wash it down with a cool and refreshing Lemon & Paeroa, also known as ‘L&P’.

Known for their incredible sheep population, its hardly surprising that lamb is many Kiwis’ favourite, in particular, roast lamb. Flavoured with rosemary and plenty of seasonal roast vegetables, kids and adults alike are in for a heart-warming meal.

Be sure to spread some Manuka honey on your toast at your hotel breakfast, and if staying in Queenstown, head to Fergburger to try the famous burgers that have people queuing up for blocks.

For an authentic and cultural dining experience, try a traditional Maori hangi , which sees food such as meat and root vegetables slow cooked over hot stones in the ground.

Normal shopping hours are 9am to 6pm Monday to Wednesday. Late night shopping is on Thursday and Friday when most stores and malls stay open until 9pm. On Saturday, shopping hours are 9am to 5pm, although most major shopping centres stay open until 6pm, while smaller towns close in the early afternoon. Many shops outside of major tourist centres are closed on Sundays.

Good buys in New Zealand include Maori artworks such as wood carvings, woven baskets and beautiful pounamu (greenstone) or bone carving jewellery. High quality woollen goods, such as Merino wool, are also widely available but there’s not much difference in price to what you would pay in Australia.

You can also check out local designer fashion and homewares boutiques in places such as Ponsonby , Britomart and Newmarket in Auckland and Cuba Street and Lambton Quay in Wellington.

Keep an eye out for local markets too, where you’ll find unique handcrafted souvenirs. Be aware that products made from wood or plants may have to be treated by Quarantine upon return to Australia, so be sure to declare them.

As in Australia, tipping isn’t required but is common in most hotels and restaurants, particularly in the major cities.

What to wear

New Zealanders are relaxed and casual in their choice of dress, much the same as Australians. During summer, light clothing is fine for most of the time, but pack a few light jackets and jumpers, especially if you plan to visit higher altitudes. You should expect some rain, so bring along light raincoats or rain jackets. Between May and September you will need a good supply of warm winter clothing that you can put on in layers. Sunglasses or visors are a must for a visit to the snow to protect your eyes from glaring sunlight reflecting off the snow.

Electricity mainly operated on 230 / 240 volts, 50 Hz AC, using angled two or three pin plugs, same as in Australia. Therefore, no adaptor is needed for Australian appliances.

Health precautions

No vaccinations are required to enter New Zealand.

Tap water is safe in all developed areas of New Zealand, but bring along bottled water if you plan on heading to more remote areas or camping in places with limited or no facilities.

Severe weather and drought are the most common natural disasters in New Zealand, however they happen rarely and pose little hazard to visitors.

Earthquakes occur frequently in some parts of New Zealand, such as Wellington and Christchurch, as the country sits on a major geological fault line, but most pose no great threat. Volcanic eruptions, fires and flooding are rare and there is usually plenty of warning before disaster strikes.

The number for emergency services in New Zealand is 111.

The official language is English so Australian visitors will have no problem of getting around in New Zealand and interacting with locals. For those wanting to learn a bit of Te Reo Maori, here are some common phrases:

Hello  – Kia ora Goodbye  – E noho rā (from person leaving), Haere rā  (from person staying) Thank you  – Whakawhetai koe How are you?  – P ehea e koe I’m fine thanks  – Kei te pai What’s your name?  –  Ko wai tō ingoa? My name is… –  Ko toku ingoa…

With its vast and diverse landscapes, there’s no denying New Zealand is a beautiful country. Here are some of the best spots to capture your family holiday snaps.

Lake Tekapo – The stunning turquoise waters, bright and vibrant lupines, and the historic Church of the Good Shepherd make for a prime photo opportunity. Its easy to see why Lake Tekapo was the most Instagrammed destination in New Zealand in 2017.

Takapuna Beach , Auckland – With s tunning views across the sea to Rangitoto Island and beyond, taking a picture here is a must. The beach is particularly beautiful in the summertime when the bright red flowers of Pohutukawa trees are in full bloom.

Sky Tower , Auckland – Dominating Auckland’s skyline, this iconic tower can be photographed from so many different angles and still look as magnificent as ever.

Milford Sound , Fiordland – One of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions is also one to snap away at. With its towering snow-capped peaks, ancient rainforests and cascading waterfalls, this fiord provides a dramatic backdrop no matter what the weather. Take a boat tour and keep an eye and camera out for fur seals, dolphins and penguins.

Hobbiton , Matamata – You are bound to capture some amazing photos from the set of one of the world’s largest movie franchises  Lord of the Rings.  Experience the lush fairytale setting of Hobbit homes and flower gardens, set against the majestic Kaimai Ranges in the distance.

Abel Tasman National Park , South Island – Located on the Northern tip of the South Island, this expansive golden-sand beach and its turquoise waters fringed by deep green bushland make for an incredible photo session.

Mount Maunganui, Tauranga – Get the heart pumping and go for a hike to the top of this iconic mountain, referred to as ‘The Mount’ by locals, or Mauo in Maori. There are two scenic tracks to choose from to reach the summit, which is 232 metres above sea level, and while its no easy feat, we promise the highly rewarding views will be well worth it, and you might even see whales.

Franz Josef Glacier , West Coast – Franz Josef is filled with things to do and photos to be taken. Whether you choose to go up on the glacier itself or soar above it on a helicopter, the photo opportunities are endless. This world famous glacier is the steepest in the country, descending from high up in the Southern Alps and deep down below into the native forest, moving faster than an average glacier and therefore creating  incredible and ever-changing features such as ice caves, tunnels and crevasses.

Wanaka , Otago – From the famous tree immersed in Lake Wanaka and appearing in many Instagram feeds, to unparalleled views from Roy’s Peak, Wanaka offers exceptional photo capturing opportunities. Mt Aspiring National Park is a must-see, with its soaring mountains, hundreds of glaciers, beech forest, winding rivers and alpine meadows earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Cathedral Cove , Coromandel – Accessible only by boat, kayak or foot, this iconic spot is one of the most picturesque and photographed on the Coromandel Peninsula, even making an appearance in several movies. A naturally formed cathedral-like archway passes through a giant rock, joining two sandy coves and giving the place its striking look, while a foreshore of Pohutukawa trees, clear blue waters and rock formations make any viewpoint here well worth capturing.

New Zealand accommodation

There are no listings matching your search.

Try changing your filters or create a listing .

Change location

• UK / International
• Call toll-free until 6pm EDT
• 617-223-4521 617-223-4580 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

New Zealand family explorer

15 days from $6,220pp

• Milford Sound
• Day-to-day Itinerary
• New Zealand trip ideas

Tour highlights

Explore the filming site of Lord of the Rings, Hobbiton.

Experience a traditional Māori cultural performance and hangi dinner.

Venture into the scenic Abel Tasman National Park in search of seals and other wildlife.

Cruise down the Milford Sound taking in the cascading waterfalls and temperate rainforest.

Price includes:

• Domestic flights in destination
• In-destination transfers
• Fully insured vehicle rental
• Activities and excursions as detailed
• All accommodation
• 24-hour support while you travel

Itinerary idea in detail

Private customized tour. Ask us about booking your international flights at our preferred rates.

Arriving in Auckland, known as ‘the City of Sails,’ with its twin harbors and rich maritime history, you’ll be driven to your hotel in a private vehicle. You have the rest of the day to settle in and explore the city. We suggest visiting the Sky Tower or strolling along Queen Street’s eateries and shops.

This morning, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the All Blacks team and the rest of the day is free for you to explore as a family. We recommend having lunch in the city before visiting the Auckland War Memorial Museum or pick up some picnic supplies and head to a local park. Alternatively, you could take the ferry across to Waiheke Island and explore the beach and wineries here.

Take a taxi to collect your hire car from the central depot this morning and head out of the busy city. You’ll drive toward the lush green fields of the Waikato region, where you’re likely to see more sheep than people. Stopping among the rolling hills of Matamata, you'll explore the filming site of Lord of the Rings, Hobbiton. You’ll be transported into a fantasy world as you peek into the small doors and walk through the lush pastures of the Shire — a fun way to break up the journey with the family. From here, continue onto Rotorua, and you’ll see the old volcanic fields rise on the horizon. This is the most active geothermal field in New Zealand and provides a smelly but colorful adventure into the Pacific Rim of Fire. After checking in to your accommodation, you can select one of the nearby restaurants for dinner.

Today, you’ll learn about New Zealand’s flightless bird, the kiwi, and its conservation story before having time to explore Rotorua further. We recommend visiting the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the youngest geothermal valley, and walking through the native vegetation and sites such as Frying Pan Lake.

Venture into a forest this morning and zip-line through the trees with your guide, learning about the wildlife that inhabits the forest and conservation efforts that are preserving and enhancing the natural environment. Then this evening, immerse yourself in Māori culture as you witness a traditional performance, listen to music, and taste a three-course hangi dinner.

Drive to the airport and drop off the car before taking a flight to the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington. On arrival in Wellington, you’ll be driven to your accommodation in a private vehicle. The rest of the day is free to peek into the eccentric art galleries, smell the hydrangea gardens, or absorb Māori culture and history at the National Museum of Te Papa.

Visit the home of the production studios of Weta Workshop, where you’ll experience a unique 'behind the scenes' look at the inner workings of Weta Studios. As night descends on the city, head to the Zealandia eco-sanctuary for a chance to spot the elusive but adorable kiwi.

Early this morning you will be collected from your city accommodation and driven to the Wellington ferry terminal in time to take the ferry to Picton. You’ll travel across the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds, where you can see dusky dolphins playing off the bow of the ferry. After collecting your hire car you’ll drive to Kaiteriteri, a gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park.

Today, you’ll cruise up the coastline, passing golden beaches and secluded bays, to Onetahuti (Tonga Bay), where you’ll have the opportunity to view the largest seal colony in this national park, along with seabirds and occasionally penguins. After this, you will walk through native bush and kayak on the water before cruising back to Kaiteriteri.

Spend the day enjoying Abel Tasman’s famed walking treks and appreciating the surrounding scenery, or join a small group guided tour if you’d prefer. Arrive back to Kaiteriteri in the early afternoon so you have time to freshen up before dinner on your last evening here.

You’ll drive to the airport today in time to take your flight to Queenstown, the self-proclaimed ‘adventure capital of the world’. On arrival you’ll be collected and driven to your accommodation in a private vehicle, with the rest of the day free to relax or explore the vibrant heart of the city.

Today, you’ll meet your group and be driven to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Milford Sound by your guide, who will share knowledge along the way. You’ll board a boat and begin the cruise down the Milford Sound, viewing cascading waterfalls, the breathtaking fjord, and the temperate rainforest surrounding you. If you are lucky, you'll get to see seals, dolphins or Fiordland crested penguins. After the cruise, and if weather conditions permit, you’ll soar over the mountains in a light aircraft, allowing you to witness a variety of glaciers and peaks from a different angle. Land back in Queenstown and rest this evening.

This morning you’ll be driven to Glenorchy in time to board the Dart River jet boat for a white-knuckle ride up the narrow, meandering waterway into real wilderness country — an adventure for all the family. You’ll disembark from the boat and experience a short walk through the forest and learn about Māori heritage before returning to Glenorchy, and back to Queenstown. You might like to experience the gondola and luge rides on your return or relax at your accommodation.

On your final full day in New Zealand, you can choose from a plethora of activities like mountain hikes, Victorian-era steamboats, and cycling routes, or you can relax and explore the food scene of Queenstown.

You’ll be collected from your accommodation today and driven to the airport in time for your onward flight.

Accommodation options

While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodations, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.

InterContinental Auckland

The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

Fable Auckland

The Hotel Britomart

View more accommodations in auckland.

Regent of Rotorua

Koura Lodge

City Lights Boutique Lodge

Black Swan Boutique Hotel

View more accommodations in rotorua.

InterContinental Wellington

QT Wellington

Kaiteriteri Reserve Apartments

Awaroa Lodge

The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Hidden Lodge

View more accommodations in Queenstown

• Abel Tasman National Park

The specialist who designs your trip to New Zealand will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.

Watch our tailor-made process

Other tours you may be interested in.

Classic New Zealand extended self-drive tour

27 days from $13,200pp

Eco-friendly South Island itinerary

17 days from $14,465pp

Highlights of New Zealand self-drive tour

15 days from $8,290pp

New Zealand's North Island self-drive tour

16 days from $8,390pp

Cultural New Zealand self-drive tour

20 days from $9,935pp

New Zealand's food & wine trail self-drive tour

18 days from $13,455pp

New Zealand's South Island self-drive tour

18 days from $11,535pp

New Zealand's wildlife self-drive tour

22 days from $10,860pp

Luxury New Zealand self-drive tour

14 days from $31,460pp

New Zealand family travel: 22 of the best places for families

Share this article

Queenstown holds some of the most beautiful views in the country. Photo / File

If your family is making 2020 the year they get to know New Zealand, here are some great suggestions of where to travel in central NZ - and yes, this is only a fraction of the fun our country has to offer.

If you’ve always wanted to take the family to Hobbiton, why not choose now to see the lush green setting of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies. Finish with a Hobbit Southfarthing beverage at the Green Dragon Inn to feel like a local at the Shire. Getting there and completing the two-hour tour will take most of your day but if you have some extra time - and energy - Wairere Falls (10 minutes from Matamata) is absolutely worth the 90-minute round trip on foot. The North Island’s tallest falls will take your breath away. Tīrau is also close by if the family needs a cafe stop. Every kid loves the giant corrugated iron sheds in the shape of a sheep and dog.

Taupō/Tūrangi

This part of the North Island provides endless fun for families. In summer the lake is perfect for swimming, but in winter the Hot Pools are an equally wonderful option (either visit Tokaanu pools or stay at Taupō DeBretts for access to thermal pools and three heated hydroslides right throughout your stay). Kids love the fly-fishing experience at the National Trout Centre (school holidays only) where an instructor helps them to reel in a fish, and they take their catch to be succulently smoked afterwards – just try not to eat it all before you've even left the grounds.) For families with older kids, white-water rafting down the Tongariro River is a truly spectacular experience - and loads of fun to boot - and no one in the family will want to miss the legendary home-baking at Creel, a tiny cafe hidden out the back of a tackle shop that's been around since the 1920s. Just pray the locals already haven't snapped up all the brioche.

There is a reason Lonely Planet named Taranaki one of the world's best regions to visit in 2017, and it's especially suited to family holidays. New Plymouth itself has so much to offer with the – literally - unmissable Len Lye Centre; the wonderful Puke Ariki Museum where kids can lose themselves for hours; Chaddy's Charters for seagoing fun (including seal spotting) and so many family-friendly eateries, that adults will love as well. Within just a five-minute walk of the Len Lye Centre you'll find Snug, Monica's Kitchen, Ms White, Social Kitchen and Public Catering Company - all excellent. If you can time your visit for the TSB Festival of Lights you won't regret it, and active families will delight in cycling the Coastal Walkway Trail, which hugs the stunning rugged coastline from the city to farmland and beyond. Further out of the city it's well worth heading up at least part of the iconic Mt Taranaki; from Stratford, it's only 25 minutes to the start of walks that take in the beautiful Dawson's falls and Wilkies Pools. If time permits, a trip to Hawera for the fascinating Tāwhiti Museum is a must-do. Widely regarded as the best privately owned museum in the country, kids and adults alike will be mesmerised by the intricate models of scenes from our history as well as a raft of other fascinating experiences.

Children are spoiled for choice in Whanganui with the quirky Durie Hill Elevator (New Zealand's only public underground elevator and one of only two in the world), the playground at Kōwhai Park, Kai Iwi and Castlecliff beaches for picnics, Splash Centre, Springvale Pump Track, Glassblowing (only for older children) and river kayaking. The Whanganui River is well known for its multi-day kayak trips, which are an incredible experience for families with slightly older offspring.

Hawke's Bay

Everyone wins in Hawke's Bay - vineyards are perfect for kids to run around while parents do some tasting, and this part of New Zealand is definitely not short on those. The famous Hawke's Bay Farmers Market will please all, and if you're an active family you're spoiled for choice - there's Te Mata Peak, mountain bike tracks, horse riding, beach walks, surfing lessons, a trip to Maraetotara Falls and so much more besides. Bay Skate in Napier is perfect for anyone looking for fun on wheels (scooters, skateboards, roller skates) and there aren't too many kids who won't find something that tickles their fishy fancy at the National Aquarium.

Of course, the capital is home to Te Papa, where many a family has whiled away the hours perusing the fascinating, and often hands-on, exhibitions but there's so much more than that to make a family holiday in Wellington memorable. Zealandia is the world's first fully-fenced urban eco-sanctuary and home to more native birdlife than you could ever imagine; Wellington Museum is a treasure; the botanic garden is gorgeous (and perfect for tiring out energetic offspring) and there are so many great places to eat that don't involve chicken nuggets (1154 Pastaria, Capital Market, almost any of numerous craft breweries in the inner city). The laneways are worth a wander too - a trail from Wellington Chocolate Factory to Leed St Bakery (those salted caramel cookies!) to Lashings and on to Fix and Fogg's Peanut Butter window will keep any sweet tooth very happy. And of course, there's Weta Workshop - don't miss the fabulous Thunderbirds Are Go exhibition, fun for kids and a trip down memory lane for parents of a certain age.

The top of the South Island is known for its incredible beauty and Golden Bay is one of the best examples of that; perfect for an inspiring family trip. Check out millions of years' worth of stalactites and stalagmites at Ngarua Caves; the incredibly clear blue waters of Te Waikoropupū Springs (the largest freshwater spring in the Southern Hemisphere); the rugged coastline and towering arches of Wharariki Beach – with plenty of sand dune and rockpool action for little ones; famous Farewell spit and its wonderful wildlife; Wainui Falls and so much more. Don't miss lunch or dinner at The Mussel Inn, where the locals love to come and chat to visitors - and have done for 25 years. The food is perfect for families, they brew their own beer, cider and soft drinks on site, there's live music and it's a fantastic encapsulation of all the best things about small Kiwi communities. If you're a salmon fan you won't want to miss Anatoki Salmon Farm, where you can catch your lunch - super fresh.

If your kids travel well in cars, it's worth taking them on a road trip down the West Coast of the South Island. Notable stops (depending on which section of the coast you choose) are The Oparara Limestone Arches, 30-million-year-old pancake rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki, Nile River Glow-worm Cave, Monteith's Brewery for a family-friendly lunch (and perhaps a well-deserved beer for parents), Shantytown Heritage Park (think dressing up for old-style sepia-toned photos, exploring heritage buildings and panning for gold), the stunning Hokitika Gorge and, if you're heading all the way down, of course, the magnificent Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.

There's also a wildlife centre in Franz Josef, where you can see New Zealand's rarest kiwi breeds. The scenery all the way down is breathtaking - dense rainforest, rugged mountain peaks, and wild coastlines; New Zealand at its untouched best.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a kids' paradise. It's the only city where a trip to the library is an absolute must-not-miss. Multi-floored, ultra-modern Tūranga is a library like no other, and parents of little kids will love kicking back with a book while their charges spend an eternity creating masterpieces from the huge collection of Duplo and Lego. There's even a cracking cafe at the front of the building if caffeine is in order. Gaming, public computers, virtual reality headsets and a makerspace make Tūranga so much more than just a place to read.

There's plenty to do outside too - the tram; the famous, and enormous, Margaret Mahy Playground (just try to resist having a go yourself, parents); ziplining and mountain biking at Christchurch Adventure Park and plenty of short, and longer, hikes.

Everyone in the family will find something they want to eat at Little High Eatery and the new incredible Riverside Market complex and you cannot miss C1 Espresso if you have kids (how many other cafes send curly fries to you via pneumatic tubes in the ceiling?) Christchurch is great to explore on foot and if the kids are up to it, the Canterbury Earthquake memorial and Quake City museum are both beautiful places to visit, remember and understand what was lost on that fateful day in February 2011.

He Puna Taimoana is an $11 million pool complex in New Brighton with saltwater pools, a plunge pool and a sauna with a view.

Hanmer Springs

Most kids would be happy to just spend all day at the incredible thermal pools and spa complex when in Hanmer - children seem to have an amazing capacity to stay in water for prolonged periods of time. It's a great set-up - adults can relax in the warm mineral-laden waters while kids ride the hydroslides, lazy river and aqua thrill ride; everyone's a winner.

But there are other things to do in this picture-perfect alpine village. There's mini golf, an animal park and the hilarious quadricycles - which quickly sort out the grafters from the shirkers in the family. Hanmer Springs also has some beautiful walks - sometimes you'd swear you're meandering through the film set of an American movie as the main street hits the picturesque foot of the Alps.

If you have time to take the coastal route back to Christchurch, Cathedral Cliffs will have everyone's jaws on the ground - just one of the secret surprises of the Hurunui District.

If you haven't been to the Waitaki region before, Ōamaru might come as a bit of a shock; it's quite different from so many other New Zealand towns with its beautifully-preserved Victorian limestone buildings.

Walking the streets creates a sense of time travel and provides something for everyone in the family to enjoy in the form of galleries and artisan shops. There's a skatepark playground, beach and mountain bike trails if the kids want to blow off steam and Steampunk HQ is well worth a visit with its treasure trove of bizarre gadgets and ghostly figures. You'll find strange creatures made from scrap metal, and the backyard is filled with old planes and vehicles, which have all been "steampunked" in one way or another. To call it a museum would be unfair - it's more of an experience, where touching things is allowed and encouraged.

Of course, Ōamaru is known for its penguins, and you can watch them waddle ashore from seating built near the colony. The kids won't let you leave town without a visit to the factory shop at Rainbow Confectionery, but it's okay as you get to go to Whitestone Cheese's Headquarters to stock up on treats yourself.

The gateway to any trip to Milford or Doubtful Sound, Te Anau is worth a night or two for some leisurely family action; the pace is slow and perfect for decompressing.

Getaway Holiday Park is the ideal accommodation for families with a range of options to suit all budgets. With hot tubs, playgrounds and a giant jumping pillow, you might have trouble getting little ones to do anything in the town itself.

Obviously, the scenery in Te Anau is world-famous and a walk around the main part of the lake followed by a picnic is a must (or just grab fish and chips from the Te Anau Dairy).

If your kids like boat rides - don't they all? - the glow-worm tour is a total treat. You hop on a boat and travel across the lake to 12,000-year-old caves where you wander through with a guide to the sound of water rushing below you, then follow another boat ride to a glow-worm grotto for twinkly sparkly viewing.

You can actually walk the beginning of the Kepler Track from Te Anau, and just go as far as your kids will manage or hire bikes or visit the Bird Sanctuary if that's more their thing. Check out the Fat Duck for a bite to eat - a gastropub with a kids menu that's sure to please.

If you're missing the Pacific Islands at this time of year, you'll be surprised at just how beautiful the beaches in the north of our own country are. Crystal-clear water and white sands characterise so many of Northland's beauty spots, such as Matai Bay (consistently named as one of New Zealand's top beaches). Head to the Hokianga for the untouched New Zealand experience - frolic on the golden sand dunes, wander through Waipoua forest to see Tane Mahuta and Te Matua Ngahere, our most majestic kauri, or even take a jetski safari on the Harbour with Awesome Adventures Hokianga (what Lenny doesn't know about this area is not worth knowing). For larger-scale tourist-based activity head to the other coast to Pahia and cruise through the Hole in the Rock, spot dolphins or visit historic Russell (Okiato was the site of our country's first capital). Mountain bikers will love Waitangi Mountain Bike Park and of course there's the famous Treaty Grounds and fascinating museum - a must-visit for New Zealanders of all ages.

The City of Sails has plenty to occupy families. On a sunny day, explore the Viaduct Harbour and North Wharf (the playground will keep them occupied for ages and you can all refuel at the Auckland Fish Markets afterwards, where you’ll find a wide range of international cuisine and a great outdoor bar). Auckland Zoo, the Sky Tower, Snowplanet and Rainbow’s End are always popular with families. Head out west to visit Hallertau for a craft brew or any of the West Auckland wineries - where there’s always plenty of space for kids to be kids. If the weather isn’t playing ball, the Auckland Museum provides hours of fun and the Auckland Art Gallery often has something kids will enjoy – it’s a great space. If your family loves icecream, experience it like never before at Giapo - an Auckland institution - and if you want to get on to that gorgeous sparkling harbour, Waiheke Island is the perfect day trip. Those beaches are pretty hard to beat.

Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake)

Just 15 minutes from the centre of Rotorua, this is the perfect place for families to base themselves to explore this region. There’s a Top 10 Holiday Park right on the lake and you can rent their kayaks for a gentle paddle off these beautiful shores. Toddle round the lake for some exercise, and take a dip if the weather permits (it’s like bathwater in summer). From here, it’s easy to access all Rotorua’s superb family fun, such as the Redwoods Treewalk on platforms through the trees (even better at night!); the kayak trip across Lake Rotoiti to the spectacular Manupirua Springs Hot Pools; Secret Spot Hot Tubs; Canopy Tours zipline experience; Jetboating to fascinating Mokoia Island; taking an Ogo ride (large inflatable ball) downhill - plus of course all the geothermal attractions that make this part of the country so popular. If you’re there on a Thursday night, don’t miss the night markets and definitely check out Scope Cafe for the best home-baking in town. The Blind Finch do excellent burgers (and great gins) and although it’s not flash, or revolutionary, stopping for icecream at Lady Jane’s has been an essential part of any holiday to the area for more years than we’d care to remember.

The Coromandel

One of the prettiest parts of the North Island, this is where half of Auckland disappears to in the summer. And it's no surprise with its endless opportunities for diving, fishing, kayaking and relaxing or walking on stunning beaches. The trail down to the famously photographed rock arch at Cathedral Cove is great for families, as is the experience of digging a little pool on Hot Water beach and creating your own geothermal spa. Older kids will enjoy the Coromandel Coastal walkway and if you have younger ones, don't miss Driving Creek, New Zealand's only narrow-gauge mountain railway. There are ziplining experiences here too, for those too old for trains. Hahei Holiday resort is a great place for families to stay with a huge range of options from camping to beachfront villas - as is Coromandel Top 10 Holiday Park.

Waitomo (and South Waikato)

If you envisage Waitomo as just the one glow worm cave you took Aunty Rita to when she came on holiday from the UK, think again. While the original tourist cave is still as magical as ever, there are so many other ways to enjoy many different caves (hardly surprising since there are more than 300 limestone calcified cathedrals of varying sizes and shapes running labyrinth-style under the region). Ziplining in a cave is a brilliant experience for older kids and the little ones will go mad for Troll Cave shenanigans. Te Tiro BnB is a hidden gem with cute family cottages and killer views, a gorgeous glamping setup, its own glow worm grotto and magnificent clear-sky star-spotting opportunities. Half an hour's drive from Waitomo is the majestic Mangapohue Natural Bridge and the thunderous Marokopa Falls - neither should be missed.

It goes without saying that even if you did nothing in Wānaka, your family would be mesmerised by the scenery - mountains giving way to the lake, peaks and glaciers are all picture-perfect.

But there is so much around if you do want to explore - challenge yourselves at Puzzling World, check out the National Transport and Toy Museum, say hi to the animals at the Lavender Farm (and take deep breaths of that calming scent if scrapping siblings on road trips are taking their toll on your sanity), play on the dinosaur slide at the playground, see a flick at Cinema Paradiso, walk up Mount Iron or down Matukituki Valley and of course ski, ski, ski.

Older kids have lots of opportunities too, jet boating, mountain biking, horse riding and even waterfall climbing if they're looking for something different - the highest waterfall cable climb in the world, in fact. There's plenty of family-friendly food, from burritos and crepes from food trucks, to brewery eats, to sweet treats from Pembroke's Patisserie, burgers from Red Star or Italian Pizza from Francesca's.

Oakridge Resort is a terrific place to stay with your tribe; they have self-contained apartments for families and plenty of pool action.

Everyone loves Arrowtown with its charming quirkiness. It's where the stunning beauty of the Alps meets New Zealand's gold-rush history and it's easy and fun for a family trip.

Gold panning becomes addictive for all ages, and although you can spend ages poking the shops (make sure you stop for sausage rolls and custard slices at Arrowtown Bakery) or visiting the museum, Chinese settlement or Old Gaol, there are also so many simple pleasures - walking tracks, cycling and stone-skimming on the river.

Everyone in the family will be enchanted by the small-town historic buildings that lead to a tree-lined avenue of tiny miners' cottages taking you back to a bygone era.

Your family won't want to leave Dunedin, such is the endless list of attractions that appeal to them. There are the well-known ones like Lanarch Castle, Baldwin St and the Albatross Colony but also the fascinating Little Blue Penguin experience (you'd be hard-pressed to find anything more adorable than 100-plus of these little cuties swimming ashore after a hard day's fishing).

Bird lovers will be enraptured by Orokonui Ecosanctuary, where multiple species of plants and animals are protected from predators and you can see Takahē, Kākā and many other of our natural treasures at play. Make sure you allow enough time for Otago Museum as the Tūhura Otago Community Trust Science Centre has so many exhibits to play with, you'll have a really hard job pulling your family away - and that's before you even get to the tropical butterfly centre.

Go on a street art hunt (it's world-class), escape Dunedin's old prison in an escape-room-style challenge, sit in the hot saltwater pools - summer only - at St Clair as the ocean pounds the beach right next to you; walk the windswept sands of Tunnel Beach and be fascinated by Toitu Otago Settlers Museum which has plenty to entertain.

Otago Farmers Market is wonderful and Emerson's is a treat for family-friendly food and a large selection of brews.

The Catlins

If your family are looking for a chance to disconnect from the busy modern world and immerse themselves in stunning landscapes, the Catlins could be just the ticket; the scenery is really worth the trip to this very southern point of our country.

Cascading Purakaunui Falls is pretty as a picture, Cathedral Caves an impressive sight, and Nugget Point is one of the most jaw-dropping lookouts in the South Island, where sapphire waters pound dramatic cliffs and you can often spot fur seals, Hooker's sea lions, sea elephants, yellow-eyed and blue penguins and Hector's dolphins playing in the waves.

At Curio Bay, along The Catlins Coastal Heritage Trail, you can see the petrified remains of a forest that's more than 160 million years old; it's hard to even wrap your head around. Spend time on a farm stay or local BnB for the real experience of this remote part of the country - the locals are definitely part of the charm.

There's never been a better time for Kiwi families to visit one of New Zealand's most stunning locations, Queenstown. No crowds of overseas visitors and loads of great deals for locals as we all try to support the tourism industry post-Covid.

Although we often think of adrenaline activities (bungy jumps, rafting, jet boating) when we think of Queenstown, there's plenty to appeal to younger kids too.

Farm tours on some of the big South Island stations are an amazing experience for families, there's the Gondola and Luge, Kayaking in summer, cruises on the TSS Earnslaw and a load of indoor activities like laser tag, trampolining, go-karts, rock climbing and movies if it's too cold or wet outside. Under-fives ski for free so this is a great time to get your little ones on that powder - and don't miss the Remarkable Sweet Shop or Patagonia Chocolates for treats after a long day sightseeing.

Blue Peaks self-contained apartments are perfect for families wanting to be close to the town centre.

For more New Zealand travel ideas, go to newzealand.com/dosomethingnew

Latest from Travel

Food on the global menu: five tips for travelling in other countries with dietary requirements, revealed: best and worst cities for female solo travellers, 'i was in tears': passenger with rare disorder 'humiliated' by airline, forced to cancel flight, have the holiday of your dreams with my queensland.

From notifying airlines to carrying restaurant cards, make travelling a breeze.

In need of some me time? US wellness resorts are way ahead of anything you'll find in NZ

Time to get away?

• facebook-official
• youtube-play
• pinterest-circled

New Zealand Family Itinerary: 2 Weeks / 14 Days 👪 [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, 14-day family itinerary for new zealand.

New Zealand is so diverse with so much to do! We get it; you want to see it all. In two weeks, you’re in for a rather intense travel schedule for visiting both the North Island and South Island , especially if you have kids in tow. If you’re determined to experience both islands in 14 days, then at least this New Zealand family itinerary for two weeks should help. We strongly recommend, however, that you consider travelling to just one of the islands if you’re only coming to New Zealand for two weeks. Take a look at North Island Family Itinerary: 2 Weeks  and South Island Family Itinerary: 2 Weeks .

Otherwise, get mentally prepared because this New Zealand family itinerary for 14 days is going to be exhausting albeit spectacular, especially with your loved ones. Not only do we list family accommodation, transport tips and activities for all ages for each exciting destination, but we also show you how to plan this itinerary the EASY way with First Light Travel .

New Zealand Family Itinerary for 2 Weeks (14 Days): Overview

• Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Waitomo
• Day 2 – Waitomo to Rotorua

Day 3 – Explore Rotorua

• Day 4 – Rotorua to Ohakune
• Day 5 – Ohakune to Wellington
• Day 6 – Wellington to Kaikoura
• Day 7 – Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs
• Day 8 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch
• Day 9  – Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
• Day 10 – Lake Tekapo to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
• Day 11 – Explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
• Day 12 – Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown
• Day 13 – Explore Queenstown or Milford Sound Day Trip
• Day 14 – Queenstown to Queenstown Airport.

How to Get Around New Zealand in 2 Weeks with Kids

Most families come to New Zealand to experience the great Kiwi road trip. With that in mind, renting a car or campervan allows you to have full flexibility and comfort compared to using rather restrictive public transport. Parents who are on a tight budget, however, might want to consider the national bus service as a cheaper and more adventurous way to get around. In short, the best ways to get around using the below itinerary are as follows:

Rental Car or Campervan

This option gives you the freedom to visit all of the stops we recommend in this family 14-day itinerary by renting a car or campervan . As this itinerary starts in Auckland and ends in Queenstown , we recommend choosing a rental company that has depots in both cities – don’t worry; there are many . Start your research using The Guide to Renting a Car or The Guide Renting a Campervan in New Zealand .

National Bus Service

InterCity offers the cheapest way to get between the destinations mentioned in this budget itinerary. However, you are restrained by bus schedules and don’t have the option to do the road trip stops mentioned in this itinerary – they only stop for toilet breaks and refreshments. Find out more about the passes available in What’s the Difference Between InterCity Bus Passes?

Escorted Bus Tours

Let someone else worry about the driving, accommodation and itinerary on one of the escorted bus tours around New Zealand. Trafalgar , AAT Kings and  Active Adventures  welcome children on their national tours. Find out more in The Best 10-12-Day Tours of New Zealand .

This itinerary includes the ferry journey between Wellington and Picton. Learn more in our guide to The Ferry Between the North Island and South Island .

Domestic Flights

The below itinerary begins in Auckland and ends in Queenstown. Both cities have international airports and are well-connected with domestic flights. If you’re leaving from Auckland, you will need to consider booking a domestic flight from Queenstown to Auckland .

Need more help planning your vacation? Start with  The Travel Guide to New Zealand for Families and help your trip run smoothly with the  10 Ways to Relax on a Road Trip .

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Waitomo

Travel time: 2 hrs 10 mins

Welcome to New Zealand! With just two weeks to explore the country, you don’t have much time to rest so pick up your car rental and hit the road to Waitomo . If you need to pick up supplies or want to grab a bite to eat, take a quick detour to Hamilton . You can also stop by the quirky town of Otorohanga which is the self-proclaimed “Kiwiana Capital of the World”.

One of the most popular sights in the country, Waitomo’s glowworm caves are awe-inspiring for all ages. You have a wide array of tours available to experience its famous glowworm caves. Walking cave tours are suitable for all ages, while older kids and teens might like underground tubing. Check out tour options in the 8 Best Waitomo Cave Tours .

Family Activities in Waitomo

• Do a walking tour of Ruakuri Cave
• Or enjoy a gentle boat trip through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Figure out the puzzles of the Troll Cave
• See the filming locations of The Hobbit at Hairy Feet Waitomo
• Meet a kiwi bird and more at the Otorohanga Kiwi House .

For more details on each activity, take a look at the 10 Things to Do in Waitomo with Kids .

Family Accommodation in Waitomo

• Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Woodlyn Park Motel
• Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge
• Glow Worm Motel
• The Loft at Te Kumi Tirohanga

Take a look at the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Waitomo for more information on our top picks.

Day 2 – Waitomo to Rotorua

Travel time: 1 hr 55 mins

Start off your morning with any of the activities you might have missed in Waitomo yesterday. Then, make your way to Rotorua . If you’re a family of Middle-earth enthusiasts, however, you will need to take a mandatory 15-minute detour to the Hobbiton Movie Set . Check out Viator or Klook  to book your tickets or head to How to Get the Best Hobbiton Discount for tips on how to get in cheaper.

An alternative place to stretch our legs is just a 5-minute detour to the Putaruru Blue Spring/Te Waihou Walkway . The walkway is stroller-friendly and free to see the brilliant blue waters of the spring flowing down a stream.

If you haven’t worn the kids out once you get to Rotorua, you can always check out the free geothermal Kuirau Park in the city centre or do one of the experiences mentioned in tomorrow’s activity list. Check-in at your accommodation from the recommendations listed below.

Family Accommodation in Rotorua

• Holdens Bay Holiday Park
• Rydges Rotorua
• Arista of Rotorua
• Regal Palms Resort
• Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua

For more information on our top picks, check out the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Rotorua .

You have a free day in Rotorua to experience its family-friendly activities. How about a sheep and farm show at Agrodome ? Why not zip through the trees with Rotorua Canopy Tours (more info on Viator , Klook or KKday ) ? For something free to do, go for a short walk in the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest or around one of Rotorua’s surrounding lakes like Lake Okareka .

Family Activities in Rotorua

• Experience the famous sheep show and farm tour of Agrodome
• Meet the kiwi birds, giant trout and more at the National Kiwi Hatchery   (more info on Viator or Klook )
• See Rotorua’s highlights and lakes on Rotorua Duck Tours (on Viator and Klook )
• Do the family-friendly walks of the Whakawerawera Redwood Forest
• Experience that famous NZ adrenaline at Velocity Valley (on Viator or Klook ).

For more information on each experience, check out the 10 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids .

Day 4 – Rotorua to Ohakune

Travel time: 2 hrs 40 mins

Leave Rotorua in the morning to allow enough time to enjoy an action-packed road trip to Ohakune . As you leave Rotorua, treat the kids to exploring a geothermal park. Options include Wai-O-Tapu , Waimangu Volcanic Valley (on  Viator and  Klook )  and Orakei Korako .

Before you reach Taupo , check out the powerful rapids of Huka Falls or, better yet, take an exciting jet boat ride with Hukafalls Jet to the falls (more info on Viator and KKday ) . Alternatively, wait until you reach Turangi to do a family-friendly white water rafting trip on the Tongariro River with Tongariro River Rafting .

The final section of the journey is through the Tongariro National Park , where it’s worth taking a quick detour to Whakapapa Village to do the short Tawhai Falls walk , the Mounds Walk for excellent volcano views or the 2-hour Taranaki Falls .

You’ll then reach Ohakune with probably some very worn-out little ones, so check-in at one of our recommended accommodations. Or, if you have some free time, do the Mangawhero Forest Walk and let the kids loose at the Ohakune Carrot playground. Additional experiences are listed below.

Family Activities in Ohakune

• Horse trek through streams and a historic town with Ruapehu Homestead Horsetrekking
• Hire bikes and ride the Jubilee Walkway , Mangawhero River Trail and more
• Let the kids loose at the Ohakune Carrot playground
• Tackle the indoor climbing walls at the Vertigo Adventure Centre
• Check out Dinosaur House in Raetihi
• Treat the kids to a world-famous Johnny Nation’s chocolate eclair.

For more information on each activity and its location, check out the 10 Things to Do in Ohakune with Kids .

Family Accommodation in Ohakune

• Rocky Mountain Chalets Ohakune
• Station Lodge
• The Hobbit Motorlodge
• The Powderhorn Chateau
• Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park

For more information on our top recommendations, check out the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Ohakune .

Day 5 – Ohakune to Wellington

Travel time: 3 hrs 45 mins

Gather the tribe and get out of the door to hit the road to Wellington ! There are loads of interesting sights that the kids will dig. The first you’ll encounter is Waiouru , home to the National Army Museum . With all the tanks displayed outside, just try to pass without the kids begging to stop! Next, you’ll pass through Taihape with its giant gumboot sculpture and Mangaweka with tempting cafes.

Bypass Hunterville to take an alternative route to Wellington stopping by Manawatu Gorge . This will just add 15 minutes to your drive time, but it’s well worth it to walk the family-friendly Tawa Loop Walk .

Finally, it’s a couple of more hours to Wellington where you can either put your feet up at one of the recommended accommodations or visit one of the capital’s attractions. The kids (and your wallet) will love some of the free activities including the Te Papa Museum and exploring the Botanic Garden . A paid activity well worth doing, however, is Zealandia Ecosanctuary . But if any of our suggestions so far aren’t your cup of tea, we have some more:

Family Activities in Wellington

• Get active on the high-wire course at Adrenalin Forest
• Spend the day at Wellington’s beaches
• Learn about the night’s sky at Space Place
• Meet the animals and birds at Staglands Wildlife Reserve
• See how the movies are made at the Weta Workshop (on Viator and  Klook ).

Find out more about each activity for families in 10 Things to Do in Wellington with Kids .

Family Accommodation in Wellington

• Rydges Wellington
• Copthorne Hotel
• CityLife Wellington
• Trinity Hotel
• Harbour City Motor Inn

Find out more about each accommodation in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Wellington .

Day 6 – Wellington to Kaikoura

Travel time: 3 hours ferry, 2 hours drive

It’s time to leave the North Island behind and take a scenic cruise to the South Island . Kids and adults alike love taking the Cook Strait ferry, not only for the stunning scenery of the Wellington Harbour and Marlborough Sounds but because driving onto a big boat is pretty darn cool. Learn more about the journey and prices in our guide to The Ferry Between the North Island and South Island .

Once you arrive on the South Island, continue onto Kaikoura . An interesting stop in Blenheim is the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre displaying realistic scenes of warplanes from World War Two. Find out more on Viator or Klook . For parents who have been dying to experience a New Zealand wine region, stop by one of the family-friendly wineries, like Wairau River , Cloudy Bay and Forrest Wines , that have games and/or toys for the kids while you enjoy a tasting.

Depending on how much time you have when you get to Kaikoura, relax with a potter around the Kaikoura Museum or play a round of mini-golf at The Emporium before checking in. We recommend doing wildlife tours tomorrow, but if you do find yourselves with plenty of time, here are some recommendations:

Family Activities in Kaikoura

• Kayak with cute fur seals in their natural environment (more info on Viator and Klook )
• Ride the Coastal Pacific train
• Go on a whale watching cruise (on Viator or  Klook )
• Or a whale watching flight (on Viator or Klook )
• Look out for seals on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway .

For more information on each activity, see our 10 Things to Do in Kaikoura with Kids !

Family Accommodation in Kaikoura

• Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park
• Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Kaikoura Quality Suites
• Alpine View Motel
• The Fairways at Ocean Ridge

Find out more about each accommodation in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Kaikoura .

Day 7 – Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs

Travel time: 2 hrs 30 mins

Get your wildlife fix in Kaikoura today, whether it’s through family-friendly tours like Seal Kayak Kaikoura (more info on Viator and Klook ) , on a whale watching boat tour (on Viator and  Klook ) , or looking out for seals on the free Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway . There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the little ones’ faces light up at the wonders of nature.

Once you’ve done what you want in Kaikoura, hit the road to the alpine resort town of Hanmer Springs . There, you’ll find the talk of the town, which is the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools . Indulge in one of the largest hot pool complexes in the country with an epic water park.

Then check-in at one of the family holiday parks or chalets in town.

Family Activities in Hanmer Springs

• Experience the Amuri Jetboat or white water rafting experience for families (more info on Viator or Klook )
• Bond over an archery competition or hire some “rocket bikes” from the Hanmer Adventure Centre
• Soak and slide at the Hanmer Spring Thermal Pools
• Enter a world of whimsy on the Fairy Door Track
• Go on a llama trek with Hanmer Llamas .

For more details and the locations of each activity and others, head to the 10 Things to Do in Hanmer Springs with Kids .

Family Accommodation in Hanmer Springs

• Clear Ridge Apartments
• Alpine Adventure Holiday Park
• Settlers Motel
• Forest Peak Motel
• Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park

For more details on our top recommendations, see the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Hanmer Springs .

Day 8 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch

Travel time: 1 hr 40 mins

Today, head to Christchurch ! On your way out of Hanmer Springs, consider doing one of the family-friendly jet boat, quad bike, white water rafting, bungy jump and paintball activities with Hanmer Springs Attractions – check them out on Viator or Klook . You might also want to pop by one of the beaches, like Leithfield Beach , Woodend Beach , Spencer Beach or Waimairi Beach . Or swap the beach for snow by taking a detour to the International Antarctic Centre .

Once you have arrived in the city of Christchurch and have checked in at your accommodation, there’s plenty of easy activities to enjoy. For instance, explore the Botanic Gardens with the little ones, who will love the duck ponds, interactive water features and running around gorgeous gardens. Next to the gardens is the free-entry Canterbury Museum with all sorts of artefacts and stories about the early Maori, wildlife, Antarctic exhibitions and more.

See the list below if you require more inspiration for Christchurch antics.

Family Activities in Christchurch

• Ride the chairlifts, find the fairy doors or zipline over the trees at Christchurch Adventure Park
• Do the treetop obstacle course of Adrenalin Forest
• Take a day tour to Akaroa with Leisure Tours
• Experience the Polar regions at the International Antarctic Centre
• Ride the Christchurch City Tram (more info on Viator  and Klook ) .

For more details on each experience and others, see 10 Things to Do in Christchurch with Kids .

Family Accommodation in Christchurch

• Country Glen Lodge
• Tasman Holiday Parks – Christchurch
• Lorenzo Motor Lodge
• Fable Christchurch
• Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport

For more details on our top recommendations, check out the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Christchurch .

Day 9 – Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Travel time: 2 hrs 45 mins

Continue your way down the South Island but not without stopping by a few fun towns along the way. First, visit Rakaia for refreshments and to see the giant fish sculpture. Next is Ashburton where the kids can burn off some energy in the gorgeous gardens and around the dunk ponds of the Ashburton Domain. You’ll then come across the town of Geraldine with nearby attractions such as horse trekking, alpaca farm tours and the Talbot Scenic Reserve – all ideal for families. Find out more in the 10 Excellent Things to Do in Geraldine .

In Fairlie , a pie from the Fairlie Bakehouse is mandatory before you finally arrive in Lake Tekapo . Soak in the beautiful landscapes of the blue lake and Southern Alps or literally soak in the Tekapo Springs . The latter also includes a kiddies’ water play area, as well as large waterslides in summer and ice skating in winter .

Enjoy one night in your Tekapo accommodation (which you’ll need to book early due to the limited choice).

Family Activities in Lake Tekapo

• Have a splash a Tekapo Springs
• Take the kids up the ski fields of Mt Dobson or Roundhill in winter
• Do the easy Lake Tekapo Walkway
• Wow the family with a scenic flight from Tekapo to the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
• Take a pic of the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd and the sheepdog statue.

For more ideas, head to the 10 Unmissable Things to Do in Lake Tekapo .

Family Accommodation in Lake Tekapo

• Lakes Edge Holiday Park
• Peppers Bluewater Resort
• Tekapo Luxury Apartments
• Mantra Lake Tekapo
• Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Day 10 – Lake Tekapo to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Travel time: 1 hr 10 mins

It’s a relatively short yet exceptionally scenic drive to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park as you follow the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki to a tiny village under the majesty of New Zealand’s highest mountain.

In Mt Cook , you have a selection of stunning short walks to enjoy, from glacier walks to bush walks. If your budget will allow, jump on an exciting boat tour to see giant icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Lake or take to the skies in a helicopter or ski plane (more info on Viator and Klook ) .

Family Activities in Mt Cook

• See the Tasman Glacier on the Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier Lake Track
• Roam around in the forest on the Governors Bush Walk
• Take the skies in a helicopter or ski plane (on Viator and Klook )
• Check out a planetarium and use powerful telescopes on a stargazing tour
• Whiz around a glacier lake with giant icebergs on a boat tour.

For more details on each experience, check out the 7 Things to Do in Mt Cook with Kids .

Family Accommodation in Mt Cook

• Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge
• Glentanner Park Centre
• The Hermitage Hotel Mt Cook
• Aoraki Alpine Chalet
• Aoraki Court Motel

For more details on each recommendation, take a look at the 8 Best Family Accommodations in Mt Cook .

Day 11 – Explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Take the time to relax today; you deserve it. When you’re ready, experience Mt Cook the way your family prefers. It could be checking out the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre with its 3D dome cinema, relaxing with a family-friendly meal with grand views, or doing any of the activities mentioned yesterday or in the 7 Things to Do in Mt Cook with Kids .

Day 12 – Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown

Travel time: 3 hrs 10 mins

It’s your longest drive yet, but there are many exciting reasons to break up the journey to Queenstown starting with the town of Twizel . Twizel offers plenty of cafes and the Twizel River Trail .

In Omarama , take a 30-minute detour to the Clay Cliffs for its otherworldly formations of pinnacles and narrow ravines. You can also sample part of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail if your kids are super active.

After Omarama is the Lindis Pass , which is often deemed the most beautiful road in New Zealand . After the Lindis Pass is Cromwell where you can get refreshments including fresh fruit that the town is renowned for – they have a giant sculpture to prove it . You might also want to try the go-karting at the Highlands Motorsport Park .

As you travel down the Kawarau Gorge toward Queenstown, stop by the Goldfields Mining Centre to pan for gold or jump on Goldfields Jet for an adrenaline-pumping ride down the river.

By the time you get to Queenstown, you’ll probably need a good rest, so check-in at your accommodation. You’ll experience more of the “Adventure Capital” tomorrow.

Family Accommodation in Queenstown

• Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Peppers Beacon
• Holiday Inn Queenstown
• The Waterfront
• Whistler Holiday Apartments

For more information on each accommodation, check out the 15 Best Family Accommodations in Queenstown .

Day 13 – Explore Queenstown or Milford Sound Day Trip

It’s time to tick the Queenstown experiences off your bucket list. It could be whizzing through the trees with Ziptrek Ecotours (more info on Viator , Klook and KKday ) , learning about New Zealand’s unique wildlife at the Kiwi Birdlife Park , or racing each other on the gravity-fuelled go-karts of The Luge  – and that’s just the beginning!

Family Activities in Queenstown

• Get the adrenaline pumping on an exciting jet boat ride
• Zip through the trees on a zipline tour (more info on Viator ,  Klook and KKday )
• Learn about New Zealand’s birds at the Kiwi Birdlife Park
• Watch the sheep being worked on the Walter Peak farm tour (on Viator , Klook and KKday )
• Race each in downhill go-karts at The Luge .

For more information on each activity, as well as a few more ideas, head to the 20 Things to Do in Queenstown with Kids !

Alternative Option: Day Trip to Milford Sound

Travel time: 7+ hours

Alternatively, this day is a great opportunity to see the “Eighth Wonder of the World” Milford Sound . However, the drive is LONG from Queenstown, so you might want to take a bus tour to Milford Sound with a cruise included. Bus tours last approximately 12 hours but include plenty of stops at short walks and cafes along the way, so you won’t miss out too much compared to driving yourself. Check out recommended tours in the 10 Best Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown & Te Anau .

For those of you who want to drive the 7+-hour return journey yourself, take a look at The Guide to Milford Sound and the Milford Road , as well as The Guide to Milford Sound for Families .

Day 14 – Queenstown to Queenstown Airport

Travel time: 10 mins

After two weeks in New Zealand, it’s time to wrap this adventure up with any of the activities you might have missed in Queenstown before heading to Queenstown Airport .

Remember to give yourself plenty of time to return your rental vehicle . There are connecting flights between Queenstown and Auckland if you are flying out of Auckland, otherwise, flights to Australia leave from Queenstown .

Plan This Family Itinerary with First Light Travel

If you like this two-week family itinerary but don’t like the hassle of planning everything yourself, then there’s a way to lighten the load. First Light Travel is an online travel agent specialising in self-drive family itineraries in New Zealand at no extra cost to you. Plus, using their service is super simple:

• First , send First Light Travel an enquiry by completing their online form
• Then , you’ll receive your customised family itinerary
• Review your itinerary and work with your First Light Travel agent on perfecting it
• Finally , First Light Travel will organise the rest including the bookings.

First Light Travel has access to more than 20,000 travel products, including almost all the tours and accommodations featured on this list (and more). With that and their local expertise here in New Zealand, they will create a well-catered itinerary to meet your needs while also suggesting some dream travel experiences that you may have never heard of. They only work with companies where their past clients have had positive experiences, so you know you’re in good hands.

What’s more, all of the bookings are arranged by First Light Travel, so instead of having to contact each individual accommodation and operator should your travel plans change, any amendments can be done through your FLT agent – easy! Did we mention the service is at no extra cost to you?!

For more information on planning your own New Zealand itinerary, see  How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary . Or better yet, jump on firstlighttravel.com and start making your own itinerary there.

More About a New Zealand Family Itinerary for 2 Weeks/14 Days

That’s it for our New Zealand family itinerary for 14 days. If that wasn’t the itinerary you were looking for, check out these alternative 14-day itineraries:

• North Island Family Itinerary: 2 Weeks / 14 Days
• South Island Family Itinerary: 2 Weeks / 14 Days
• New Zealand Budget Itinerary: 2 Weeks / 14 Days
• New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: 2 Weeks / 14 Days
• New Zealand Foodie Itinerary: 2 Weeks / 14 Days
• New Zealand in 2 Weeks : Road Trip Itinerary
• How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

Finally, get advice on planning more of your family getaway with  The Travel Guide to New Zealand for Families .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

Was this article useful?

Related posts, north island in 2 weeks: new zealand road trip itinerary 🚗⛰️ [2024], north island budget & backpacking itinerary: 2 weeks / 14 days, new zealand in 10 days: road trip itinerary 🚗🏔️ [2024], south island budget & backpacking itinerary: 2 weeks / 14 days, south island honeymoon & romance itinerary: 2 weeks / 14 days, new zealand honeymoon & romance itinerary: 2 weeks / 14 days, recommended for you, how to get wifi in your campervan in new zealand, new zealand working holiday visa: everything you need to know, the top new zealand events & festivals 🙌 [2024], destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

Welcome/Kia Ora By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and terms of use within it which includes sponsored posts and affiliate links.

Connect with us

Welcome/Kia Ora! By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of use within it.

© 2024 NZ Pocket Guide. Contact – Disclaimer – About Us – Our Standards

Call Us: NZ + 64 21 62 94 98

Home Family Friendly Holidays 12 days South Island Family Holiday

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

• Information

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens, located in the central city of Christchurch, New Zealand, were founded in 1863 when an English oak was planted to commemorate the solemnisation of the marriage of Prince Albert and Princess Alexandra of Denmark. In a loop of the Avon River, bordered on three sides by the green expanse of Hagley Park, are the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. With more than one and a half million recorded visits each year, the Gardens are one of the city’s most visited public facilities. The Gardens are at the heart of Christchurch’s reputation as the Garden City. A temperate climate supports many thousands of plants, gathered from around the world and across New Zealand since 1863.

Christchurch Tramway Restaurant

Experience the luxury of our 36 seater air-conditioned, colonial style dining tram and be treated to the finest service, cuisine and beverages New Zealand has to offer. Incorporate fabulous dining with a sightseeing tour showcasing Christchurch’s inner city vibrancy and heritage – truly a mix of the old and the new. The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant dinner tour is a unique activity not to be missed.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Cathedral Junction, 109 Worcester Street. Phone: 03 366 7830 Times:  Departs 7pm (March – October) and 7.30pm (November – February – excepting public holidays). Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: takes 2.5 hours Dietary: Please ensure you advise of any special dietary requirements at least 72 hours in advance. Notes: wine and beer can be bought at extra charge. Children:  Not recommended for children under 10 years of age, but a minimum age of 6 years applies.

International Antarctic Centre

Experience the wonder and magic of Antarctica without leaving Christchurch, at one of New Zealand’s best, award winning tourist attractions. The International Antarctic Centre is your destination for authentic, interactive fun and provides an exciting experience of Antarctica for visitors of all ages. It doesn’t matter whether you’re 2 or 92 – there is hours of fun there for everyone. Located next to Christchurch International Airport and open every day of the year from 9am – 5.30pm. You will visit ‘Antarctica’ the snow and ice experience, survive an Antarctic storm, learn about life in modern day Antarctica and Scott Base, and hang out with little blue penguins! There is also the famously exciting hagglund ride and an awesome simulated 4D cruise, Happy Feet 4D, plus heaps more! It is quite possibly the closest you will get to Antarctica without mounting your own expedition!

Earth & Sky Observatory

At 1,029m high, Mt John offers unrivalled 360-degree views across the largest accredited International Dark Sky Reserve in the world. The expert astronomy guides bring the night sky to life, sharing the science and the stories of our Southern skies. Stargaze using the naked eye guided by lasers and then proceed to explore deeper through up to 16" optical telescopes, including in our private observatory dome. Take in the incredible Milky Way, far off planets, star clusters, solar systems, and even distant galaxies; every night sky beholds something different.

Our exclusive Summit Experience runs for 1 hour 45 minutes, includes transport to and from Mt John, use of our ECW (extreme cold weather jackets) to keep you warm at the summit  (Please note: ECW Jackets are unable to be provided during Covid-19 Framework Red and Orange levels) , and the full use of our telescopes.

The nature of the terrain on Mount John requires a certain level of fitness, you need to be confident walking 100 meters on a gravel incline and be able to climb a couple of steps in the dark. Guests looking for a more accessible tour should check out our Crater Experience at Cowan’s Private Observatory, which is an ideal accessible alternative.

Our Summit Experience is a weather dependent activity. If it is not possible to observe due to weather, then an alternative indoor experience may be offered in our purpose built technological and interactive venue, with guests entitled to a partial refund.

Important Tour Details: Check-in time: Summit Experience Tour at Mt John Observatory Check-in time: 20 minutes prior departure time. Departs/ Finishes:  At Rehua base at 1 Motuariki Lane, next to the new YHA in Lake Tekapo. Phone: 03 680 6960. Reconfirmation: call the operator in the morning of the tour re times and weather conditions. Length of tour: 1 hour and 45 minutes. What to bring: Compulsory clothing will be enforced prior to entering to a tour. Failure to comply with compulsory clothing may result in being refused entry to the tour . Minimum required clothing and footwear is - sturdy, warm and covered footwear, a wind proof & warm jacket. Hat and gloves are recommendable. No children wearing glowing, flashing or light up shoes/ clothing are permitted on tours. What is provided: Transfers from Tekapo village, guide. Notes: In the event of snow and/or ice, rain or extreme wind speeds, tours may be cancelled, due to safety. A part refund will be issued. A full charge will be incurred if either a booking or the number of pax is reduced with less than 24 hours' notice. Client(s) do not report to their pick up location or check in at the office at the specified time for their tour are regarded no-show (with no refund available).

Tekapo Springs

Tekapo Springs offers three tiered Hot Pools, landscaped in local greywacke rock and surrounded by the region’s native alpine plants, to create a natural setting. Pool temperatures range from forty degrees Celsius to thirty six degrees Celsius. The pools have benched seating so guest can sit back, relax and soak. Situated under Mt. John, Tekapo Springs Glacial Spa is the ideal location to relax and revive, while overlooking the picturesque setting. The spa’s sauna and steam rooms are set at optimum temperatures and can cater for up to ten people at one time. The spa also offers a traditional plunge pool, which is set at lake temperature. Tekapo Springs also operates a scenic skating rink. The outdoor Olympic hockey sized rink is open from April to September.

Air Safaris Tekapo

Experience breathtaking alpine scenery on an exciting scenic flight with Air Safaris from the base at Lake Tekapo on the main highway between Christchurch and Queenstown, an exhillerating South Island attraction. The Grand Traverse flight from Lake Tekapo is a popular air tour and covers a diverse range of alpine scenery including New Zealand's highest mountains (Aoraki Mt Cook and Mt Tasman) as well as our longest glaciers including the Tasman, Murchison, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: either Tekapo or Glentanner Airfield. Phone:  0800 806 880 or +64 3 680 6880 Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 1 hour for the tour. Confirmation: Depending on loading the trip either starts from Tekapo or Glentanner. Also, the weather plays a major part in this region. This may mean a tour is cancelled for safety and passenger comfort reasons. Passengers travelling to join on the day of their tour are strongly advised to telephone the day prior  to the schedule tour date and reconfirm. What to bring: Camera, required medication, sun glasses, trainers, warm top. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit.

Mount Cook National Park

Also known as Aoraki National Park, this 700 square kilometre reserve is home to 19 mountains that tower over 3000m, including Australasia’s highest peak – the 3754m high Mt. Aoraki. The incredible landscape forms part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area and can be explored by mountain climbing, hiking, skiing and even scenic flight tours. Not to be missed is the Tasman glacier; at 27km long and 3km wide, this is the country’s largest glacier – though in recent years it has unfortunately been melting fast.

Glacier Explorers Aoraki Mt Cook

An amazing encounter with Tasman Glacier and its terminal lake. Depart from The Hermitage Hotel. The bus will take you to the Tasman Valley, followed by a 30 minute alpine walk through the moraine and National Park. Board your custom built MAC boat, and enjoy the ever changing scenery, view the Tasman Glacier ice face from a safe distance and icebergs of all shapes and sizes with the opportunity to touch and taste the 300-500 year old ice crystals.

Important Tour Details:​ Departs/ Finishes: The Hermitage Hotel Activities Desk, Mt. Cook Village. Phone: 0800 68 68 00. Check-in: 30 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 2.5 hours (with up to 1 hour on the lake. Rest is transfers and walking) How to get there: The Hermitage Hotel is located right in Mt. Cook Village (in the National Park). What to bring: Small backpack, Walking shoes, closed in footwear shoes, sun glasses, sun hat, sun block (UV levels are high in the mountains), wind/waterproof jacket, extra warm layer of clothing for cool weather, camera, required medication. What is provided: Return Transport ex Hermitage Hotel, Experienced guides, Life jackets. Notes: Cancellations with 48 hours prior to the trip departure will forfeit 50% of the total price. Cancellations with 24 hours prior to the trip departure will forfeit 100% of the total price.

The Helicopter Line Mount Cook

The Helicopter Line's Mount Cook base operates from Glentanner Park, situated only 15 minutes drive from the Aoraki/Mount Cook Village and 20 minutes along State Highway 80 after turning off State Highway 8 between Christchurch and Queenstown. Glentanner Park is situated within a genuine, working high-country sheep station located in an idyllic setting at the base of New Zealand's highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. The surrounding scenery varies from the glacier fed Lake Pukaki and the surrounding rugged high-country landscape to the soaring peaks and mighty glaciers of the Southern Alps. The Helicopter Line provides a range of scenic flights that venture into this alpine wonderland and offer you the privileged view that are otherwise reserved for the most adventurous mountain climber.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: The Helicopter Line office, Glentanner Park Centre, Mt Cook. Phone: 0800 650 651. Reconfirm: call for weather in the morning on departure date on above phone number. Check-in: 30 minutes prior departure. Trip Name: Alpine Explorer - flight time 35 minutes including a snow landing. How to get there: located at Glentanner Park, 24kms from Mt. Cook Village off the main road. What to bring: Camera, sun glasses, warm top. Bags are not permitted in the helicopter. Also, no iPad. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Notes: The temperature on the snow will likely be a few degrees colder than in town, however, it’s warm in the helicopter so no need to dress for an Antarctic Expedition.

Dart River Safaris

A diverse activity of exhilaration, discovery and adventure! The tour begins with an exhilarating jet boat journey, complete with thrilling jet spins. The jet boat ride is then followed by a 30 minute guided walk on a rolling trail through ancient native forest. Hear about flora, fauna and history from your friendly guide. Then travel by bus along a back-country route, making stops to view some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery that has formed the epic backdrop for many international movies, including ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and The Hobbit: An unexpected Journey.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: 45 Mull Street, Glenorchy. Phone: 0800 327 853. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 3 hours. How to get there: Travellers are either picked-up at Queenstown Information Centre, corner Camp and Shotover Streets (total return time 6 hours) or can meet at the Glenorchy base (total return time 3 hours). Glenorchy is 46 kms or 1 hour drive from Queenstown. What to bring: Camera, rain jacket, required medication, insect repellent, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, warm top, closed shoes for walking. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Notes: minimum children age and height policy applies.

Shotover Jet

Shotover Jet operates on an exclusive area of the Shotover River and is the only company permitted to operate within its spectacular canyons, carved out over the ages by a vast volume of fast flowing water. The very grandeur of this spectacular environment, less than 10 minutes drive from Queenstown, adds to the excitement and exclusivity of the Shotover Jet experience Shotover Jet commenced operations on the upper Shotover River in 1965 and was one of Queenstown’s first adventure activities, and over the years is one of the experiences that has helped to put New Zealand on the global tourism map. Combining the classic New Zealand invention of the Jet Boat with the Kiwi culture of adventure, Shotover Jet has become part of the fabric of what is quintessentially 'New Zealand' and has taken jet boating from its humble beginnings to become one of New Zealand’s most iconic ‘must do’ visitor activities.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: 'The Station', Cnr Shotover & Camp Sts, Queenstown. Phone: 0800 746 868 Check-in: 45 minutes prior tour departure (as the drive from the city to the river base can take 30 min). Length of tour: allow 1.5 hours. How to get there: A complimentary shuttle transfers depart from ‘The Station’ Info Centre, corner Shotover and Camp Streets, in downtown Queenstown up to every 15 minutes. You will need to check-in at least 45 minutes prior to tour departure. Otherwise Shotover Jet is an easy 6km drive from central Queenstown. Drive up Shotover St (with lake Wakatipu behind you) and onto Gorge Rd. Travel along Gorge Rd towards Arthurs Point and Coronet Peak, after approximately 5kms you will come to a small one lane bridge at Arthurs Point. Carry on and after a short distance you will come to another larger one lane bridge, cross this and the Shotover Jet entry is immediately on your left. What to bring: Eyewear is a good idea at all times of year. Warm clothing - jackets, beanies, gloves and scarves are essential during winter. What is provided: Transfers ex Queenstown, Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Notes: The minimum height to ride the Shotover Jet is usually 1m, however, this can increase to 1.2m if the river level is high.

Skyline Queenstown

Located an easy five minute walk from central Queenstown, Skyline Queenstown offers awe-inspiring views of the region and an abundance of entertainment and adventure for the whole family. Take the journey on our iconic Gondola up Bob’s Peak to enjoy award winning cuisine in the scenic Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, Kiwi Haka Maori culture performances and the Skyline Luge thrilling downhill ride! Skyline also offers access to scenic Queenstown activities such as walking tracks in the Ben Lomond Reserve, mountain bike trails in the Queenstown Bike Park and breath taking views from our viewing deck and market kitchen cafe, along with the stargazing tour.

Queenstown Rafting Kawarau River

The Kawarau River is ideal for first time rafters or suited to those looking for a more relaxed rafting experience, or groups of mixed ability and ages. There is plenty of white water action, but also time to relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery. The Kawarau River starred as the River Anduin in Lord of the Rings. The grandeur of the canyons imparts a feeling of paddling through the heart of Middle Earth. Enjoy the unforgettable 400 meter long Dog Leg rapid, New Zealand’s longest commercially rafted rapid, before returning to Queenstown for a sauna and shower at Cavells Rafting Base.

Nzone Skydive Queenstown

The Queenstown skydiving experience starts at the meeting point located right in the heart of Queenstown, at the NZONE Skydive Center. It is the check-in point, where following registration and a video briefing in the innovative cinema room, visitors can select photo and video options. The drop zone, to which visitors are transported, is just 20 minutes away on a private airstrip set amid a rural farmland background.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: NZONE Skydive Shop, 35 Shotover Street, Queenstown. Phone: 03 442 5867. Check-in: call 30 minutes prior departure to check re weather conditions. Length of tour: allow 3.5 hours. How to get there: Meet at above location in Queenstown for transfer to the air field base. What to bring: Camera, required medication, wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Notes: Customers over 100kg/220lbs will not be permitted to jump. Those under 18 require parental/guardian consent. Please be aware that skydiving is a very weather dependent activity and cancellations due to unsuitable weather conditions may occur.

Milford Sound Scenic Flight

Milford Sound Scenic Flight is an activity, offering visitors a scenic flight from Queenstown above the rugged backcountry of Central Otago, before heading westward to where the glacial fed rivers empty into Lake Wakatipu. As visitors cross over into the Fiordland National Park, they will discover an untouched world of peaks and valleys, where the mountains reach into the sea a landscape forged by the rapid retreat of glaciers.

Soaring above Milford Sound they will get an aerial perspective of cascading waterfalls hidden amongst towering peaks, and the icy blue channel that flows into the Tasman Sea. From the luxuriant mosses and ferns clinging to sheer rock faces to immense peaks rising straight from the ocean depths, the entire experience is truly awe-inspiring.

The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier

The Helicopter Line is New Zealand’s leading helicopter operating company. Formed in 1986 when 3 separate helicopter companies combined, The Helicopter Line has grown to become the largest Kiwi owned Helicopter Company in New Zealand and the largest provider of scenic flights in the country. The rugged West Coast of the South Island is an untamed beauty where the mountains meet the Tasman Sea and where rainforests give way to Glaciers. Nowhere else in the world can glaciers be found in such a dramatic setting, in such close proximity to the Sea, making Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers truly unique. The Helicopter Line operates from both Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier townships with multiple flight options available from each location.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: The Helicopter Line office, Main Road, Fox Glacier Village. Phone: 0800 807 767. Reconfirm: please reconfirm your flight day prior flight via phone or at their office base. Check-in:  30 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 1 hours with transfer to heli pad (flight time is 30 minutes). How to get there: located right in Fox Village. What to bring: Camera, sun glasses, warm top. Bags are not permitted in the helicopter. Also, no iPad. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Notes: The temperature on the snow will likely be a few degrees colder than in town, however, it’s warm in the helicopter so no need to dress for an Antarctic Expedition. All helicopter flights are weather dependent and subject to cancellation. If cancelled due to weather your flight is fully refunded. Otherwise will try to reschedule your flight.

Paparoa National Park

The Paparoa National Park stretches from the peaks of the Paparoa mountain range to the west coast of the South Island, encompassing spectacular sights and landscapes along the way. The most notable of these are the limestone cliffs, canyons, blow-holes and world-famous 30-million-year-old “pancake-stack” formations. The small settlement of Punakaiki lies within the park and offers visitors the chance to visit heritage sites, take in arts and crafts, and spend some time in the local cafes and restaurants.

White Heron Sanctuary Tour

Experience the untouched beauty of the prehistoric White Pine (Kahikatea) rainforest and absorb the natural Flora and Fauna as you visit one of the most special places in New Zealand. The tour departs from the White Heron Sanctuary Tours office in Whataroa and consists of a short minibus ride to connect with a jet-boat for a gentle 20 minute scenic cruise into the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve (the only way to access this area is by boat). In the reserve you'll disembark from the boat for a short walk through ancient Kahikatea rainforest to a purpose built viewing hide to observe the magnificent White Heron (Kotuku) in their natural nesting environment. The Royal Spoonbill and the Little Shag also share this special area and all can easily be seen from the hide. From March through to September over the winter months, White Heron Sanctuary Tours offer a very informative Rainforest Nature Tour into the reserve with the duration of the tour being approximately 2 1/2 hours.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: White Heron Office, Main Road, Whataroa. Phone: 0800 523 456. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 2.5 hours. How to get there: Whataroa is located 30 minutes north of the Franz Josef village on State Highway 6. What to bring: Backpack or bag, camera, rain jacket, required medication, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, warm top, walking shoes. What is provided: Transfers ex Whataroa Office, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit, Access to laggon reserve (where the birds are nesting). Group size: max. 11 people. Notes: The nesting season is between October until February each year.

Shantytown Heritage Park

Shantytown is a popular tourist destination in the West Coast Region of New Zealand’s South Island. Found just 10 kilometres south of Greymouth, this recreation of a Gold Rush-era town was devised by the Historical and Mechanical Society in 1968 as a way of preserving the heritage of the region, and today is an action-packed facility giving visitors a taste of life in the 19th century. Take a ride on a steam engine train, try your hand at gold panning, explore a period-perfect sawmill, enjoy some Wild West-themed shows at the Hologram Theatre and wander around the village’s vibrant Chinatown district. Short rainforest walks, fun old-time photo shoots and several popular onsite cafes complete the perfect day out with the kids.

Hokitika or “Hoki” as locals have affectionately named this little town, is idyllically located on a stunning, driftwood-strewn beach on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Presided over by the towering Mount Cook and the Southern Alps this idyllic little town functions primarily as a gateway to the South Westland World Heritage National Park, however, the town itself offers plenty to keep you blissfully engaged. Hokitika is well-known for its excellent local crafts and has developed a prolific artistic community with an array of open studios and galleries displaying skilful artisans in the process of, among other things, weaving, greenstone carving or blowing glass. It's a place of simple pleasures: scout the craft galleries, enjoy the fabulously fresh local seafood, or simply have a relaxing picnic on the banks of the picturesque Lake Kaniere surrounded exquisite snow-capped mountains. Hokitika is a great place to get away from the bustle of the city to engage in some wonderfully relaxing self-indulgence.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

The Pancake Rocks are a very popular tourist destination at Dolomite Point south of the main village. The Pancake Rocks are a heavily eroded limestone area where the sea bursts through several vertical blowholes during high tides. Together with the 'pancake'-layering of the limestone (created by immense pressure on alternating hard and soft layers of marine creatures and plant sediments), these form the main attraction of the area.

Underground Caving Charleston

Coal museum westport, abel tasman national park.

The Park for all seasons is New Zealand's finest coastal National Park, located at the top of the South Island and basking under the most sunshine hours in the country, year-round.

Abel Tasman Golden Future Tour

Get up close and personal with this amazing coastline including outlying islands and Tonga Island Marine Reserve. Observe mammals, birds, fish and invertebrates, learn about coastal ecology, marvel at the amazing granite rock formations and explore the inlets if tide allows. Lunch on a world class beach; followed by an optional but thoroughly recommended walk around Pitt Head. This regenerating forest headland is being transformed by Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust into a mainland ecological island. There you will witness forest ecology, botany, predator traps and incredible views. Alternatively you can spend the time lazing on the beach. Visit Adele Island that has been predator free since 2007 and experience the beauty of an increasing population of native forest birds, and weather permitting; fossick in the rock pools on the seaward side.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Marahau DoC Bus Shelter/ Car Park, Phone: 03 391 0010 or 027 223 6594. Length of tour: Start at 9am back between 3-3.30pm. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Video:  https://youtu.be/EZy-algIHo8 How to get there: Travel via Motueka and Riwaka to Marahau Beach by taking the MARAHAU EXIT - TURN 2. RIGHT - from SH60 (not via Kaiteriteri, which is the 1. right). MAKE SURE NOT HEADING UPWARDS TO TAKAKA HILL! When you arrive in this very small village follow the main road (Harvey Road) until you get to the Main Abel Tasman Track Carpark bus shelter (on your right).  Meet at 8.45am for 9.00am departure . Note: public toilets are here too. NOTE: GPS/NAVI does not work well for directions in this area. Instead use a Google Map. What to bring: Camera, insect repellent. rain jacket, required medication, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, swim suit, towel, sandals, warm top, water bottle. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, morning tea, lunch (either filled croissant or filled baguette). Note: Low level of fitness required. Short self guided walks can be arranged.

Abel Tasman Charters Taranui

The modern and powerful Taranui is fitted with a galley, barbecue and shower. Taranui is the Maori name for the Caspian tern, guests might spot some of the seabirds on the cruise. Taranui is an 11 meter, semi displacement, power catamaran. Passengers board at Stephens Bay and are treated to a leisurely cruise around the headland to Split Apple Rock, from where shags may be seen drying their wings on warm rocks after their fishing expeditions. Taranui's cruise itinerary is flexible and passengers will be taken to view specific marine activity such as dolphins riding the bow wave or New Zealand fur seals fishing. If there's a particular bay or park passengers would like to see, they should inform the skipper who will do his best to accommodate requests. After viewing the seals, a light lunch is served in a sheltered bay. A delicious platter style lunch with fresh local ingredients is provided and local beer and wine are included. Advance notice of any special dietary requirements would be appreciated. After lunch, passengers may swim, sea kayak, go ashore for a bush walk, or just relax on Taranui. Lunch, sunscreen, sea kayaks, snorkelling and lifejackets are provided. Passengers need to bring their own camera, hat, sunglasses, warm jacket (just in case) and swimming gear. For those intending to hike the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, sturdy footwear is recommended.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Stephens Bay, Kaiteriteri (Abel Tasman NP). Phone: 0800 223 522. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 6 hours. How to get there: The boat named 'Taranui', is a stable, spacious power cat. It's moored at Stephens Bay, a scenic 15 minute drive from Motueka, before you reach Kaiteriteri. Follow the main road out of Motueka and through Riwaka. Then follow the signs to Kaiteriteri. Stephens Bay is signposted on the right. Follow Stephens Bay Road to the end where there's plenty of room to park. What to bring: Backpack or bag, camera, rain jacket, required medication, insect repellent, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, swim suit, towel, sandals, warm top. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit, Afternoon Tea, Lunch. Group size: 11 passengers for the shared trip (not for private bookings). Notes: It is important to let you know that the Abel Tasman National Park has no jetty’s and they will need to remove their shoes to get on and off beaches. The boats are accessible to most people. One step from the beach onto the tender and then again from the tender onto the boarding platform of the boat. Please let us know if you have mobility issues so that we can discuss which trips are suitable for you.

R&R Kayaks are sea kayaking specialists for the Abel Tasman National Park offering a range of half day through to multi-day guided kayak adventures and sea kayak rentals. We offer free Wifi, parking and hot showers at our purpose built kayak base. It's a small family owned sea kayak company with many years of industry experience and extensive local knowledge (they are born and bred locals). The Abel Tasman National Park is a very special place to their family (whānau) and they are excited to share its history, stories and natural beauty with you.

Creme de la Creme - Full Day Kayaking + Walking: The title of this outstanding kayaking trip says it all! Putting it simply – the best of the best! Experience the beauty of your surroundings on a water taxi to Onetahuti. From here you will kayak the azure waters to Tonga Island – home of the inquisitive NZ Fur Seal (kekeno) and the shy Little Blue Penguin (kororā). Disembark from your paddle at beautiful Bark Bay where you can enjoy lunch and cool off with a swim in the crystal clear sea. Your unguided afternoon walk south will lead you through the most renowned walking section of the National Park. This stretch of the track is bursting with picture perfect scenery and features that are sure to take your breath away.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: At Marahau Beach base. 279 Sandy Bay - Marahau Road, Marahau. Office phone details: 03 527 8197 or NZ freephone 0508 223 224. Reconfirm: Please call operator the day before re weather and scheduled departure time. Length of tour: takes 8-9 hours. Check-in: 10 minutes prior departure. How to get there: Directions from Nelson travel via Motueka to the Abel Tasman National Park. Best is to turn from main road (SH60) after the village of Riwaka the SECOND road RIGHT (into Riwaka - Sandy Bay Road) and follow until you reach Marahau Village. MAKE SURE NOT HEADING UPWARDS TO TAKAKA HILL! From the turn-off travel travel about 9 kms on a windy road until you reach the tiny village of Marahau Beach. The base is located after a left bends, after 200 metres, on your left AFTER another operator 'Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi'.  NOTE: Some GPS/NAVI do not work well for directions in this area. Instead use Google Map. What to bring: Water bottle, camera, sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, swim suit or fast drying clothing (avoid pants or jeans), warm jacket (avoid cotton – wool or fleece is best), change of clothes, towel, walking shoes or walking sandals, any personal medication you may require. What is provided: Lunch, 2 x water taxi rides, dry bag for cameras, safety gear & briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment. Walking Part: This is approx. 3 hours (12kms) up-and-down along the coast between Bark Bay to Anchorage Bay. Bring good, comfortable walking shoes or trainers. Note: Max. 8 person in the party. No kayaking experience is necessary.

This remarkably sunny and rather sleepy little town is most commonly used as a base for exploring the town’s surrounding winelands which are home to some of New Zealand’s most fertile and venerated vineyards. The area boasts over 40 excellent wine farms, many of which are conveniently located within a 10km radius of Blenheim. In and around Blenheim you’ll find an impressive array of tempting cafes and restaurants, charming craft shops, artisan food outlets and some world-class golf courses. The nearby Marlborough Sounds provide an ideal setting for a variety for water sports, from kayaking to swimming with dolphins. Popular attractions include the fascinating Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to a well restored collection of World War I planes, as well as the Marlborough Museum which showcases a variety of interesting local historical artifacts and also houses Beavertown, a replica street scene based on features of Blenheim around 1900.

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Omaka Aviation Heritage Center presents the outstanding Knights of the Sky exhibition, featuring Sir Peter Jackson’s collection of WW1 aircraft and artifacts. The story of aviation in the Great War is brought to life in sensational sets created by the internationally acclaimed talent of WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. The theatrical treatment is both innovative and visually stunning. Captivating scenes depict the aircraft in context, sometimes recreating an incident that actually happened in the war. Rare memorabilia is on display and ranges from beautifully crafted ‘trench art’ through to personal items belonging to the famed Red Baron himself.

Whale Watch Kaikoura

Whale Watch is New Zealand's vessel based whale watching company, offering an exciting up close encounter with the large toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale in their natural environment at all times of the year. Kaikoura is the whale watching capital of New Zealand. Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year round residents. A typical Whale Watch tour may encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky Dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season, guests may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales. Kaikoura often hosts the large dolphin, the Orca, and is home to the smallest and rarest marine dolphin, the Hectors. Kaikoura also attracts the largest concentration and variety of seabirds on mainland New Zealand, including 13 species of Albatross, 14 varieties of Petrels and 7 types of Shearwater. Designed especially for whale watching, the modern catamarans are equipped with engines that minimize underwater noise and lavatories that never pollute the sea. Hamilton jet units are used for vessel propulsion and are quieter for the marine mammals compared with other forms of vessel propulsion They also have an internal propeller so the risk of a propeller strike with marine mammals is completely eliminated. The main passenger cabin is enclosed and the outside decks offer fantastic viewing and photo opportunities. Spacious, air conditioned interiors are fitted with comfortable seating, while large plasma screens display marine wildlife animations.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Whale Centre, Kaikoura Railway Station Road. Phone: 0800 655 121. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 3 hours. How to get there: Whale Watch tours are always dependent on sea conditions. Whale Watch staff constantly monitor the weather and respond professionally to any changes. This may mean a tour is cancelled or safety restrictions placed on children or passengers with medical problems. Passenger comfort and safety is always priority. Passengers travelling to join on the day of their tour are strongly advised to telephone the FREEPHONE number 0800 655 121 for a sea conditions update. What to bring: Camera, rain jacket, required medication, water bottle, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, trainers, warm top. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Notes: In the event that your tour is cancelled due to adverse sea or weather conditions a full refund will be given. What if I get seasick? If you are susceptible to motion or seasickness Whale Watch offer Aqua Straps for hire or purchase. Whale Watch also sell a range of natural active motion-sickness tablets.

Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura

At Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura, visitors are afforded the opportunity to swim with or watch the dusky dolphins in their natural environment, off the coast of Kaikoura in New Zealand. Dolphin Encounter pioneered dolphin swimming in Kaikoura in 1989 and 19,90 and have developed the tours for visitors wishing to enhance understanding of dolphins in their natural environment. The dusky dolphins inhabit the coastal waters off Kaikoura all year round, making Kaikoura a unique place where wild dolphins can be encountered every day, weather permitting.

Tour Informations:

As clients are on our 8:30am tour, it is  very  important that they reconfirm this with us before 4pm on the day before their tour. They can call us on either our free phone number, 0800 733 365, or on 03 319 6777. At this time we can update them of the forecasted tour conditions and advise of the reporting time.

At Encounter Kaikoura we have a fully licensed café open for breakfast and lunch or if you are running out of time before your tour we also have great value takeaway breakfast/lunch packs available.

Clients will need to report to our booking office at Encounter Kaikoura, 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura.

Those intending to swim will need a swimsuit, towel, warm clothing and a camera. A small gear bag would also be useful.

If they wish to  change or cancel  their reservation, they must advise us prior to 24 hours before their tour time. For those who do not advise us of their tour change or cancellation a full fare will apply.

SEASICKNESS:  Because swimming and watching the dusky dolphins takes place in the open ocean, participants must realise that sea conditions vary and can change very quickly. If passengers suffer from motion sickness, it is advisable that they take something to prevent seasickness. They must also realise that the time spent out on the ocean is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Even with the help of medication, there is no guarantee against the effects of motion sickness. Seasickness is not grounds for seeking a refund for the tour.

SEA/WEATHER CONDITIONS:  Naturally all tours are dependent on suitable weather and sea conditions and any decisions regarding the tour status is made at the tour time. Please advise clients that due to permit restrictions we may not be able to automatically forward you onto the next scheduled tour

DURATION OF TOUR : The duration of this tour is approximately three to three and a half hours (time on the ocean is approximately is 2 to 2.5 hours).However some flexibility is required with this tour time as it is dependent on the dolphin location which can vary each day.

LEVEL OF ABILITY REQUIRED FOR SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS:

The tour to swim with the dolphins is an open ocean experience. For maximum enjoyment, swimmers need to be confident and have a reasonable level of snorkelling experience.

Albatross Encounter Kaikoura

Kaikoura is known as one of the world’s hotspots for pelagic bird life with up to twelve species of albatross able to be found at various times of the year. The tour is a sea based operation by boat taking you off the spectacularly stunning Kaikoura Coast.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes:  Encounter Kaikoura Base, 96 Esplanade. Phone: 0800 733 365 or 03 319 6777. Reconfirm: you must reconfirm the tour until 4pm the day prior under above phone numbers or in person. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 2.5hours. How to get there: The Encounter Kaikoura base in located in central Kaikoura. What to bring: Backpack or bag, camera, rain jacket, required medication, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, warm top, walking shoes. What is provided: Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Group size: max. 11 people. Notes:  The tour is subject to suitable sea conditions on the day and minimum passenger numbers.  Children: under 3 years are not permitted on board.  Sea sickness:   Because our tours take place in the open ocean, participants must realise that sea conditions vary and can change very quickly. If passengers suffer from motion sickness, it is advisable that they take something to prevent seasickness. They must also realise that the time spent out on the ocean is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Even with the help of medication, there is no guarantee against the effects of motion sickness. Seasickness is not grounds for seeking a refund for the tour.

Wings Over Whales Kaikoura

Experience Kaikoura’s mighty Sperm whale, playful Dusky Dolphins, and majestic scenery from above! With towering mountains, panoramic ocean views and a year-round whale and dolphin population, Kaikoura is a spectacular place. Whale watching by aeroplane offers the unique perspective of viewing the entire whale from head to tail as he breathes on the ocean’s surface. You will have your own window seat and the opportunity to clearly view and photograph Kaikoura’s marine wildlife during your 30-minute flight from the comfort of a high winged aircraft.

City Centre Motel

City Centre Motel is located in the beautiful city of Christchurch and offers a quiet garden setting with comfortable, spacious studios and apartments. The complex is conveniently situated near the city’s attractions, restaurants and activities.

Mantra Lake Tekapo Resort

Mantra Lake Tekapo Resort accommodations is located within a natural alpine setting, with a cleverly landscaped exterior and beautiful interiors. The resort features spacious self contained apartments, each offering three bedrooms and fully equipped kitchens, two and a half bathrooms with underfloor heating and quality furnishings. Guests can enjoy a private courtyard, garage and facilities including a swimming pool, hot tub and entertainment area.

Garden Court Suites

Garden Court Suites & Apartments provides a relaxing garden environment that captures all day sun and beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu and mountains. The suites and apartments offer balcony or courtyard views. Both the suits and apartments offer high quality facilities and services. The property is a five minute walk from Queenstown's beautiful town centre and the doorstep of countless adventures.

Sunset Motel Fox Glacier

Sunset Motel is just a short stroll from the Fox Glacier village. Set in tranquil farmland, all units have full glass frontages to allow for unimpeded views of Mount Cook and the rugged Southern Alps. There are 25 spacious ground floor units. All feature a kitchenette, some offer a spa bath. Each unit offers outdoor furniture setting on a courtyard patio which offers views of the Southern Alps and magnificent sunsets. Sunset Motel is less than 1 km to centre of the Fox Glacier village, which hosts award winning cafes, restaurants and bars. Continental breakfast is available on-site.

Hydrangea Cottages

Welcome to Hydrangea Cottages and Punakaiki Horse Treks. Punakaiki is a subtropical microclimate located between Greymouth and Westport on the South Island’s rugged West Coast. The landscape in this part of New Zealand is unlike anything else you will encounter in this spectacular country. Hydrangea Cottages is the perfect place to stop and enjoy this slice of paradise. Hydrangea Cottages offer secluded, spacious and stylish accommodation in Punakaiki within a stone’s throw of one of New Zealand’s most treasured and spectacular tourist attractions -the Pancake Rocks. Each cottage is unique and has been designed by your hosts for your comfort and relaxation. They are privately situated on an elevated terrace overlooking the Tasman sea and surrounded by the Paparoa National Park. Hydrangea has six cottages available, ranging from a studio suitable for a couple to a 2 bedroom cottage for a family of 6 and a 3 bedroom house suitable for 9 people.

Mapua 41 South

Welcome to Mapua41South holiday accommodation in Nelson Tasman, New Zealand. Located at 55 Aranui Road in the heart of Mapua, a friendly seaside village with all the facilities you need for a relaxing holiday , at the very center of the Great Taste Cycle Trail halfway between Nelson and Kaiteriteri. Their two new architecturally designed units offer stylish and modern, boutique accommodation with indoor-outdoor flow onto expansive decking. Both the Orange Apartment (a one bedroom, self-contained apartment) and the Blue Studio (a fully equipped studio unit) offer a warm and comfortable base for your next family holiday, romantic retreat, or a weekend escape. Attached by a breezeway, the two units can be booked as the Full House to offer proximity for those ‘together’ times with extended family or friends, but also offer individual privacy for ‘time-out’.

Kincaid Cottage

Kincaid Cottage is situated in open green countryside with breath-taking views of the adjacent mountains and down to the Pacific Ocean. This self-contained cottage has it all! The rooms are spacious and luxuriously furnished, both having their own well- appointed bathrooms. The lounge and dining area has a TV, DVD player and free-view digital box, a library, DVD’s, guitar, plus games cabinet. There is of course a fully equipped kitchen. Local hosts Jessica and Greg are happy to help with recommendations for some of the many activities available in the area, the most famous being whale watching and swimming with dolphins. There is also a large selection of excellent cafes and restaurants in the township. Kaikoura is a unique town where the mountains meet the sea. Here you will find a vast array of wildlife. There is much to see and do; well worth at least a few days stay. The cottage is situated in the grounds of the historic Kincaid lodge which can trace its European history back to 1856.

12 days Family Holiday South Island

Recommended Travel Months - Green = good travel month

If you want less driving on the roads, then this 12-day South Island family holiday itinerary is perfect for you.  To get your South Island journey off to a great start, we have included your transfer from Christchurch airport.  A family-friendly and spacious self-contained accommodation awaits you. Once you have settled in,  collect your quality rental car. Now your holiday in the beautiful South Island can really begin. This is a fun family holiday with top South Island destinations and places to stay.  

There is much to see and to do on this Family Adventure Holiday in New Zealand:

• Go Stargazing in one of the world best locations at Lake Tekapo.
• Take an exciting glacier lake tour beneath Mt. Cook  and touch an iceberg. 
• Enjoy a thrilling jet boat ride in the Dart River scenic area near Queenstown.
• Go on a child-friendly guided kayaking in the beautiful Abel Tasman NP.
• Walk through native rain forest, pristine beaches and lagoons of the West Coast.
• Discover the whales of Kaikoura or maybe even swim with dolphins!

Learn more or book your Family Holiday South Island New Zealand in 12 days:

• Step 1: Review the Itinerary below, and confirm your preferences
• Step 2: Choose a Price Option and Get a Free Quote
• Step 3: Pack your bags , and get excited about your Family Holiday NZ!

South Island Family Holiday in 12 Days

Day 1 Christchurch

After arrival at Christchurch Airport, take your pre-arranged transfer service to your hotel.  The central city is only a short drive away, so kick back and relax into your South Island family holiday. Depending on your flight arrival time, you’ll have some time to explore Christchurch.

Check in to City Centre Motel

Recommended - Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Recommended - Christchurch Tramway Restaurant

Optional - International Antarctic Centre

Day 2 Lake Tekapo

Pick-up a rental car and drive the Inland route (via the scenic Rakaia Gorge) through South Canterbury to Geraldine. Continue into the Mackenzie country to Lake Tekapo and Twizel Village ( 4 hours). See the turquoise colour of Lake Tekapo, visit the famous Church of the Good Shepherd and the Mount John Observatory. The southern hemisphere's equivalent of the Northern Lights is best seen at Lake Tekapo, between April and September. Because of limited accommodation in this region, your stay will vary between Twizel, Mt. Cook Village and Lake Tekapo.

Check in to Mantra Lake Tekapo Resort

Optional - Earth & Sky Observatory

Optional - Tekapo Springs

Optional - Air Safaris Tekapo

Day 3 Queenstown

The Mount Cook area offers 4WD safaris, boating on the glacier lakes, horse treks, scenic flights with snow landings and numerous hikes. The Glacier Explorers company operates up to 7 trips per day from early September to late May. This tour include a coach ride, a 20-minute walk, then a boat cruise through the Tasman Glacier terminal lake. Touch and taste the ice crystals from the floating icebergs. This is great fun for children and parents alike!

Check in to Garden Court Suites

Information - Mount Cook National Park

Included - Glacier Explorers Aoraki Mt Cook

Optional - The Helicopter Line Mount Cook

Day 4 Queenstown

Drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy for the day (50 min). Remember to stop along the way to take photos. Join the Dart River Safaris and travel up the river on a jet boat. Get a firsthand experience of the Lord of the Rings movies locations. This is a real highlight for LOTR fans!

Included - Dart River Safaris

Optional - Shotover Jet

Optional - Skyline Queenstown

Optional - Queenstown Rafting Kawarau River

Optional - Nzone Skydive Queenstown

Day 5 Queenstown

There is so much to see and do in the Queenstown region -  so spend another day exploring. Consider a thrilling Fly-Cruise-Fly to the beautiful and dramatic Milford Sound! This is a highlight trip for any family travelling through the South Island.

Optional - Milford Sound Scenic Flight

Day 6 Fox Glacier

Drive to the beautiful rugged West Coast (Queenstown to Fox: 5.5 hours). From Haast to Jackson Bay you'll see shingle beaches, lakes and wetlands - plus the backdrop of the Southern Alps. Take a helicopter flight over the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier - a definite highlight is landing on the snow! Do the scenic Lake Matheson Walk (just over 1 hour) or the glacier face walk in the Fox Glacier valley - a family-friendly activity for all children over the age of 6 years.

Check in to Sunset Motel Fox Glacier

Optional - The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier

Day 7 Punakaiki

Continue travelling north along the West Coast road. Explore the goldfield walkway at Ross and stop by the shores of Lake Ianthe. For young families, a must-do is a visit to Shantytown near Greymouth.  For an awesome nature experience, consider a visit to the White Heron colony near Whataroa. The town of Hokitika is famous for New Zealand Pounamu (Jade) and gold. Arrive at Punakaiki in the afternoon. Note: do all your supply shopping before you arrive in Punakaiki.

Check in to Hydrangea Cottages

Information - Paparoa National Park

Optional - White Heron Sanctuary Tour

Optional - Shantytown Heritage Park

Recommended - Hokitika

Day 8 Abel Tasman National Park

The Great Coast Road as one of the Top 10 Coastal Drives in the world! Drive alongside the limestone cliffs of Paparoa National Park, home to the world's smallest penguin. Go underground rafting at Charleston or  caving at Fox River. Visit the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki. Stop by the seal colony at Cape Foulwind. Plan on having lunch at Westport and enjoy some great home-cooked food. Continue via the Buller River Gorge to the Abel Tasman-Nelson region.

Check in to Mapua 41 South

Recommended - Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Optional - Underground Caving Charleston

Recommended - Coal Museum Westport

Day 9 Abel Tasman National Park

When it comes to lush native bush and and sea views, the Abel Tasman Coast Track is unsurpassed! This great New Zealand walk passes through golden beaches and coastal forests. If you are keen on nature and wildlife, join an Eco tour in a small party group. Another popular option is a guided sea kayaking tour for a half or full day. For a higher level of comfort, take your family on the Abel Tasman Charter yacht trip.

Information - Abel Tasman National Park

Included - Abel Tasman Golden Future Tour

Optional - Abel Tasman Charters Taranui

Optional - R&R Kayaks

Day 10 Kaikoura

Continue driving the loop around the South Island to Kaikoura via Blenheim. If you love fine wines and vineyard lunches, then Blenheim is worth a few hours stop. Before or after lunch, do take your family to visit the Omaka Aviation Museum  at the Omaka Air Field - your kids will love it! Remember,  Kaikoura is only about 2.5 hours drive from Blenheim.

Check in to Kincaid Cottage

Information - Blenheim

Recommended - Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Day 11 Kaikoura

Kaikoura is the centre of Whalewatching in New Zealand. Please Note: these tours are very much dependent on sea conditions (it has to be calm before the boats go out). Therefore, the best tour time is early morning. By going early, you will have time to check out other local sites in the afternoon.

Included - Whale Watch Kaikoura

Optional - Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura

Optional - Albatross Encounter Kaikoura

Optional - Wings Over Whales Kaikoura

Day 12 Kaikoura

Drive back to Christchurch (about 2.5 hours) Depending on your flight time, you may have ample time to explore the Christchurch region before leaving.

Included Highlights

Information links.

Michael Nees

Travel Expert

Mike & Megan Family

Let me start out with thank you!!! It was a trip of a lifetime, we can’t put into words the how amazing the experience was. Your work towards our trip was fantastic and we would be honoured to be listed as a reference for folks looking for a similar journey. You did a wonderful job relating to our needs. We had some really neat pictures of the Koala bears in the Daintree experience, our guide for the day called the outfit after we left and requested they email them to me. We are now home and back to the grindstone. The girls have informed me we definitely need to plan on another trip in similar fashion. Thanks again Mike & Megan and family.

Chhaya & Family

Sitting at the airport in Christchurch and reminiscing our last two weeks. It wouldn't have been possible without all your help and effort is planning a perfect holiday. From the best adventures to the best accommodation. We had a fantastic time and would like to thank you for everything. Your country is indeed beautiful. As I would label it. Gods own country. Thank you so so much again Michael and I would referring you to a whole load of friends who have New Zealand on their plans.

Jared & Family

Trip of a lifetime! Myself, wife and boys age 7 & 9 traveled to New Zealand for 16 Days. Michael planned the perfect trip! I gave Michael the cities and activities I wanted to do and he planned the hotels, logistics, domestic air, all activities that required prior reservations, pick ups and car rentals. He provided detailed itenary and an app with the whole trip spelled out. He was able to place us in an amazing B & B in Rotura (Clover Downs) and an unbelievable B & B with a vineyard (Kinross Cottages) in Queenstown! My family: went to the Auckland Zoo, Cathedral Cove Kayak, Hot Water Beach, Zorbed, Luged, Redwood Tree Wall, Soccer Golf, Paint Ball, Laser Tag, ziplined, retrieved morning eggs and played with sheep at (Clover Downs), Paraglide, Shotover Jet, White Water Rafting, Bungy Jumped, hiked a Glacier, Rode on the Transalpine, swam with the worlds smallest dolphin in the open ocean, played on the worlds largest playground in Christchurch, saw glow worm caves, visited the volcanic valley, relaxed in a natural hot spring river, hiked in old mining caves and visited the Anartic Center! Call Guest NZ now!

Edina & Party – Family

We are a family of 4 and just came back from our NZ - Australia holiday organized by Guest New Zealand, which was a fantastic experience. All services, transfers, itinerary and accomodation was spot on. We were given a great price and saw twice as much for a much more competitive price than trips offered by agencies based in the UK. Michael helped us with the itinerary from the begenning accomodating all our requests. During the tours we requested minor changes to fit in with the timings and the adjustments were made imediately, so we felt being properly looked after also during the trip. I can only recommend this agency and would use them again in the future. Thank you Michael!

Andrew Morgendorff & Family

We made it back yesterday and all want to say a huge thank you to you for organizing such a totally fantastic vacation. Once we made it to NZ, every single detail went without a hitch, and the directions you gave us made everything super easy. We felt that we had a great selection of things to do and see, but never felt over-scheduled or pressed for time. And of course we had lots of time to be wowed by the people, food and scenery of New Zealand. I think I told you that I've put a ton of posts and photos on my Facebook page, and mentioned how you had helped us out too; you're welcome to check out the posts, and I've already been talking with friends who are also thinking of visiting NZ so that they know to book through you. We're already talking about returning in the future, maybe in a couple of years when the kids can take part in more adventurous activities. We will be sure to give you a call! Many thanks again for an amazing experience.

Planning Step 2 – Personalise Your Holiday

12 Days - Standard

per person (with family of 4),

( Not including intern. flights )

3 Star Lodging Quad Share

Partly breakfast included

Sedan Rental Car

Tours with 10-25 Person

Coach Airport Transfer

12 Days - Superior

4 Star Lodging Quad Share

All Breakfast Included

Intermediate SUV Car

Tours with 6-10 Person

Taxi Airport Transfer

12 Days - Premium

5 Star Lodging Quad Share

Meal plan included

Large SUV / 4WD Car

Private Tours 2-4 Person

Exclusive Airport Transfer

View Similar Travel Itineraries

10 days new zealand family vacation, new zealand with kids vacation 12 days, new zealand family itinerary in 14 days, new zealand lotr locations.

Now Offering Virtual Tourism Packages

In the future, Tourism will be a combination of traditional holidays and virtual travel experiences. With Virtual Journeys, you will be able to travel without leaving home. These immersive experiences will ignite your senses and make you feel as though you are physically there at location. Our Virtual Travel section will introduce you to immersive VR/360 Immersive recordings, Online Experience tours and 360 Livestream engagements.

Option 1: VR/360 Immersive Tours

Travel from the Comfort of Your Home. Go Anytime.

Option 2: Live Online Experiences

Save Money & Visit More Destinations around the World.

Option 3: 360 Live Tours & 3D Scans

Travel Anywhere Sustainably & Leave No Carbon Footprint.

Travel Stories & Inspiration

Family Travel

Top 10 Family Destinations New Zealand

Accommodation

Top 10 family accommodation New Zealand

New zealand kid friendly tours & activities.

Xperience Team

28 Jun 2024 - 4 min read

Top 5 Things to do in Christchurch with Kids

Things to do in Christchurch with Kids - Christchurch, the second-largest city in New Zealand ranked after Auckland, is a wonderful holiday destination. The city is rich with natural beauty, from the gardens that spread all over the city, to the stunning view of the nearby Alps Mountains.

When you plan your holiday to Christchurch, you might wonder if the city is great for kids. The answer is: absolutely yes! You can have a lot of things to do in Christchurch with kids since the city is considered family friendly.

Why? Well, for instance, playgrounds are in almost every park, allowing you to enjoy the outdoor activities together. Plenty of attractions are family friendly and not only recreational, but educational too.

5 Things to do in Christchurch with Kids

So, here’s the list of fun things to do in Christchurch with Kids:

1. Have Fun at Margaret Mahy Playground

Location : Armagh Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand Opening Hours : 24 Hours

You’ll be surprised that there’s a playground THIS great with no admission fee. Yup, Margaret Mahy Playground is a wonderful haven for everyone of all ages.

Both children and adults can play with so much playground equipment: from slides (of various heights), swings, spider webs, sand area, water play area, and more! This place will make your children extremely happy, especially with ice cream trucks around (mom and dad, relax, there’s a coffee stall too to keep you awake!).

Not to mention that this large park is surrounded by beautiful views that makes it more enjoyable to play outside. Located by the Avon River, the playground also offers numerous toilets that are so clean and an area for barbecue-ing.

With all those great facilities, now you know why you shouldn’t skip this one thing to do in Christchurch with your loved ones.

2. Discover International Antarctic Centre

Location : Corner Roy Place and, Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8052, New Zealand Opening Hours : 9 AM - 4.30 PM

The International Antarctic Centre is an award-winning destination, more than worth visiting! In fact, it is a must-try thing to do in Christchurch with kids, and create the memory that will last forever with your loved ones.

What to do here is plentiful, starting from the Storm Experience, where you can actually feel the Antarctic storm situation. The temperature inside is -8° C and the wind is -18° C. It’s going to be a thrilling experience in the middle of a cold.

There’s more, of course! Allow yourself to get in a ride with Hägglunds, the amphibius antarctic vehicle, strong enough to beat the rough terrain on the ice. This one is going to be an adrenaline-pumping experience. Children can also join as long as they are with their parents, but terms and conditions applied.

Well, not stopping there, this place will get you more and more in awe with the Penguin Rescue area, the Antarctic Gallery, and the 4D Theatre. Best experience of the lifetime, indeed!

International Antarctic Centre Ticket | New Zealand

3. Exploring Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Shutterstock.com

Location : 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand Opening Hours : 9.30 AM - 5 PM

You have discovered Antarctica, now we are moving on to the next great thing to do in Christchurch with kids: visiting Willowbank Wildlife Reserve . Yup, it’s time to explore more of nature in a wildlife park. Here, you can meet a kea, an animal you won’t find anywhere else!

Of course, other than keas, you’ll meet other animals too, like lemurs, kangaroos, capybaras, deers, and even eels. You can get closer to them by feeding them too! Of course, when you’re here with the children, you should at least try feeding one of the animals once.

Walking in between the beautiful trees and all greenery in the reserve will be really refreshing. Indeed this is a must-visit place in Christchurch with the whole family.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Ticket

4. Riding The Christchurch Gondola

Location : 10 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand Opening Hours : 10 AM - 4 PM

There’s no best way to enjoy the city besides riding the Christchurch Gondola ! Just make sure you, or someone else in your family, have the fear of heights!

Only by hopping on the Christchurch Gondola will you be able to admire the scenic view of Christchurch and its surroundings from the sky. The city will be seen so differently. There’s also Lyttelton Harbour, Pegasus Bay, and the snowy Southern Alps visible from when you sit on the gondola.

Well, not only chilling at the sky, the summit station here has so many things to explore, where there’s also the Christchurch Discovery Ride to know the interesting history about the area. You can walk at the walking track as well while still enjoying the view.

Need a break? Have a cup of joe in the cafe adjacent to the gift shop. The cafe is top notch too. Aside from serving the best coffee, they have tasty food to kill your hunger too.

Christchurch Gondola

5. Visiting The Air Force Museum of New Zealand

krug_100 / Shutterstock.com

Location : 45 Harvard Avenue, Wigram, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand Opening Hours : 9.30 AM - 4.30 PM

Got boys? And they love planes so much? This would be their heaven! The next thing to do in Christchurch with kids is visiting the Air Force Museum of New Zealand. While little kids can enjoy being so close to all kinds of planes, with various shapes and colors, older kids will enjoy taking information.

Also, this news will thrill your kids: you can also venture inside some of the planes and actually feel like you’re a pro pilot!

Enjoy the interactive exhibit and explore the historic aircraft that some were the military planes and helicopters in the early days of New Zealand’s aviation. Please take a guided tour of the museum for a more knowledgeable experience.

And FYI, the place this great, with plenty of majestic planes like this one is unbelievably has no admission fee! But, if possible, please make some donations!

So, what do you think? Do you think Christchurch is family-friendly enough for you? We think so, big time! With all those things to do in Christchurch with kids, you can plan your trip to Christchurch right away. Book your favorite hotel in Christchurch through Traveloka and get the best deal, also for flight and attraction tickets too!

Payment Partners

About Traveloka

• How to Book
• Help Center
• New Release Features

Follow us on

• Airport Transfer
• Traveloka Affiliate
• Privacy Notice
• Terms & Conditions
• Register Your Accommodation
• Register Your Experience Business
• Traveloka Press Room
• Vulnerability Disclosure Program

Download Traveloka App

• Bringing family if you have a work visa

Most types of work visas allow you to support visas for your partner and dependent children, but there are some restrictions.

Supporting visa applications for family

Bringing family if you have an AEWV

Bringing family if you have an ESWV

• Check if you can support a visa for your partner or dependent children
• Bringing family if you have a student visa
• Sponsorship for the Parent Resident Visa
• Getting your partner to support your online visa application

When you cannot support visas for your family

You cannot support a work, visitor or student visa for your partner or dependent child if you have any of the following visas:

• Fishing Crew Work Visa
• Working Holiday visa
• a limited visa under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme
• a work visa under the Supplementary Seasonal Employer (SSE) scheme
• Silver Fern Job Search Work Visa
• Skilled Migrant Category Job Search Visa
• Domestic Staff of a Diplomat Work Visa.

If you cannot support your partner or dependent children to apply for a visa, they can apply for a visa in their own right.

Explore and select a visa

When you can support visas for your family

Your visa conditions will list if you can support a work, visitor or student visa for your family.

If you have an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or an Essential Skills Work Visa (ESWV) your job must meet certain criteria before you can support a family member's visa.

Visas you can support for your family

With your work visa, you can normally support the following visas for your partner and dependent children:

• a work visa for your partner
• a visitor visa for your partner or your children
• a student visa for your children.

Visas for your partner and children expire at the same time as your work visa.

Accredited Employer Work Visa holders

You may be able to support a visa for your partner or dependent child. If you can support a visa and the type of visa you can support will depend on your job and how much you earn.

Essential Skills Work Visa holders

If you have an Essential Skills Work Visa (ESWV), you may be able to support your partner's or dependent child's visa. The type of visa you can support will depend on how much you earn.

Supporting your partner's work visa

If you can support a work visa for your partner, depending on your visa and how much you earn it will either be:

• an open work visa, or
• a work visa with conditions.

Open work visas

An open work visa means your partner can work for any employer with no pay requirements.

If you have an AEWV or ESWV, we may approve an open work visa for your partner if:

• you earn twice the wage threshold or more, or
• your role is on the Green List and you meet the Green List role's requirements.

If you have a different visa and you can support a work visa for your partner it will have open work conditions.

Work visa with conditions

If you have an AEWV or ESWV, we may approve a work visa with conditions for your partner based on your job, how much you earn and if you supported a visa for your partner before 26 June 2024.

A work visa with conditions means your partner, as the visa holder, needs to meet a set of employment rules or terms.

• If they are currently employed they need to ensure their employment meets the conditions for their new visa when it takes effect.
• If they are not employed they need to ensure any future role they are offered meets the conditions.

For the full list of employment rules and terms, go to the 'Work' section under Conditions:

Partner of a Worker Work Visa