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10 best New Zealand family vacation packages

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Steff New Zealand travel expert at TourRadar

Southern Spectacular (10 Days)

New zealand panorama (7 days), contrasts of new zealand (end christchurch, 10 days), queenstown to wellington highlights - 7 day self drive tour, new zealand grand - 14 day self drive tour, 5 day southern scenes, new zealand uncovered (17 days), 2 day kaikoura whales and dolphins overnight tour, bucket list new zealand (9 days), classic new zealand - 9 days - auckland, rotorua, queenstown..

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

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year
• Cruise on the magical waters of mystical Milford Sound
• Discover the icy landscape of Franz Josef Glacier
• Journey over the Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine Train

• Visit the glowing Waitomo Caves
• Explore Queenstown's vibrant lakefront
• Discover Auckland's cosmopolitan vibe

• Stargaze in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve
• Cruise through the stunning Milford Sound
• Make butter at a local farm in the countryside

“The help with planning to fit our needs, the support around the clock, the seamless process of everything was fantastic.” Catharine Montgomery, traveled in November 2019

• Cross the Lindis Pass into the MacKenzie Country
• Cruise on the mystical waters of the Marlborough Sounds
• Drive at your own pace in your own rental car

“Jaw dropping scenery, amazing food, friendly people. This is hands down, the best family vacation we have ever had!” Jalal Zia, traveled in December 2023

• Spend time in the extraordinary Fiordland National Park
• Experience Queenstown, Dunedin and the best of Otago

• Ride the TranzAlpine Scenic Train
• Journey from Mt. Cook to adventure-filled Queenstown
• Tour Aoraki/Mt. Cook and Lake Tekapo

• Visit the NZ Maritime Museum in Auckland
• Explore Auckland's new waterfront areas
• Enjoy a Maori dinner and show in Rotorua

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

• Bask in the beautiful township of Kaikoura
• See whales on the famous Whale Watch Kaikoura tour
• Experience a magical swimming encounter with the dusky dolphins

• Sightseeing
• Sail on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour
• Cruise through Milford Sound
• Tour the Hobbiton Movie Set

• Discover the glowing Waitomo Caves
• Enjoy a traditional Maori dinner and dance

More about New Zealand

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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

Family friendly Holidays

New Zealand is a great destination for family-friendly holidays, and no matter where you travel, there is always plenty of things for kids to do.

Discover family-friendly activities in New Zealand

The wide selection of activities for kids range from cultural experiences, to wildlife encounters, to nature-based activities and to thrill-seeking adventures. 

Learn about the country’s rich Māori culture and history of the land. Explore the many museums and galleries around New Zealand. See the iconic Kiwi bird, swim with dolphins, and discover some of New Zealand's unique wildlife in one of the many animal parks and zoos. Take the family outdoors and explore the endless walking and cycling tracks. Discover the stretches of sandy beaches or wander through the native forests. Thrill-seekers won’t miss out with many activities that are suitable activities for kids. Zoom down a hill on a luge or in a Zorb, hit the slopes for skiing in winter, or dart along a river in a jet-boat.

These are only a few of the things you can do on a family holiday in New Zealand; the challenge will be deciding what to do first!

Find family-friendly activities

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Top 10 family friendly activities in New Zealand long-arrow-right

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 .

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

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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 .

And if you’re on Pinterest, save one of the images below for later

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.

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New Zealand with Kids: The Ultimate 16 Day Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: August 20, 2024

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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 , Tamaki Maori Village , and Tips about New Zealand with Kids !

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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!

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.

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Travel New Zealand With Kids: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

New Zealand may just be one of the most family-friendly travel destinations we’ve visited. Here’s what you need to know about setting off to New Zealand with kids.

The jaw-dropping landscapes, rich culture and open-hearted Kiwi charm are all part of what makes discovering New Zealand an absolute privilege. Wondering what’s in store in the great outdoors? Think swimming in natural hot springs , snorkelling amongst wild dolphins, walking along natural wonders, spotting brooding volcanoes , climbing majestic peaks, navigating through dense forests , jetting down deep fjords, and lazing on sunny beaches. New Zealand has it all. When Sassy Mama visited, for portions of our trip, we saw more sheep and stars than skyscrapers or people – and, trust us, your little ones won’t be complaining.

Getting started Transport – Getting there and around Queenstown Christchurch Kaikoura Taupo and Rotorua Auckland

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Planning Your New Zealand Itinerary With Kids

New Zealand might seem like a small country, but it is packed with adventure for the whole family. You could easily spend months exploring all the North and South Island have to offer. Before you go, you’ll need to think about narrowing down your itinerary, how to get around and how much you want to squeeze in. That’s where this handy family-friendly guide to New Zealand comes in.

Be sure to check on the visa requirements for your passports. Many nationalities will require an NZeTA before arriving, which will allow you to enter visa-free. Also keep in mind the strict quarantine laws for entering New Zealand and be prepared to declare goods to customs on arrival  (food, drink and plant materials). 

New Zealand’s summer runs from January into February , so while the weather is stunning, it’s the busiest time of year. Less crowded alternatives would be autumn (March to April) and spring (November to December ), when the weather is still warm. For skiers and snowboarders, it’s worth heading out over your kid’s summer holiday, which is New Zealand’s winter, from June to September .

Transport In New Zealand- Getting there and around

Flying to new zealand.

There are direct flights to Auckland on the North Island, and Christchurch on the South Island with both Cathay Pacific and Air New Zealand. For Queenstown and other destinations, you’ll need to connect through one of these cities, or via an Australian airport.

Driving in New Zealand

Driving in New Zealand is nothing like driving in Hong Kong. Though New Zealand’s landscape is varied, it’s all equally beautiful, and even the most restless kids will enjoy the ride . With mountains rising out of the water and calming open fields of green, you want to stop and get out of the car every 15 minutes for a photo.

A hire car for a family road trip is a fantastic option, or, consider hiring a camper van and leave your itinerary truly flexible. All the major car hire companies are readily available including Budget , Hertz and Avis .

For camper vans, you can consider Maui , Apollo , Spaceships or Britz . There are excellent camping grounds and holiday parks all over the country and you don’t need to worry about regularly packing and unpacking!

Queenstown, New Zealand

Known as New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown offers a stunning change to Hong Kong’s skyline. It sits contently on the shores of South Island’s Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the Southern Alps. The town is a welcoming, bustling hub of international and local activity. From skiing in June to bungy jumping, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and white-water rafting , there is plenty to keep you and the family entertained.

Where to stay in Queenstown:

Eichardt’s Private Hotel 

Eichardt’s Private Hotel is part of Queenstown’s history. Located in absolute prime position (right along Lake Wakatipu in the town centre), this iconic hotel is walking distance from busy restaurants, but still manages to feel exclusive and relaxing . For accommodation, take your pick between one of the seven luxurious Lake or Mountain View Suites , the four Lakefront Apartments , The Residence or The Penthouse . The décor fuses classic elegance with modern twists .

Oh, and the luxurious apartment-style boudoirs have walk-in-wardrobes the size of a modest HK apartment. Eichardt’s Private Hotel offers everything from packed picnic baskets for days out , to complimentary day-passes for the Queenstown Gym . Although it is a sophisticated retreat, children are welcome . Baby cots can be supplied as well as extra beds for older children. Family-friendly two and three-bedroom apartments are also available.

Eichardt’s Private Hotel , Marine Parade, Queenstown, New Zealand, +64 3 441 0450 , [email protected] , www.eichardts.com

Matakauri Lodge

It’s hard to believe that this private haven is a 10-minute drive from the centre of Queenstown. Matakauri Lodge’s take on luxury is thoughtfully understated, welcoming and breathtakingly beautiful . If it wasn’t for the attentive service, it would almost feel like dining in a billionaire’s holiday home. Your bedroom, living room, bathroom (and bathtub) overlook what’s known as the big three, “The Remarkables, and Cecil and Walter Peaks” – so the floor-to-ceiling glass windows were a wise choice. For families, be sure to book one of the suites or the “Owner’s Cottage” so you have a bit more room to spread out. The private entrance to your personal deck and suite accentuates the remote, relaxed vibe.

Though this one is best for a romantic getaway, the number of activities in the area mean that older kids won’t be disappointed. When it comes to food, Executive Chef Dale Gartland creates an ever-changing seasonal menu, highlighting clean and fresh produce. Key features of Matakauri include the private jetty (just a 10-minute walk away), the outdoor infinity pool and Jacuzzi, the gym, sauna and quaint spa.

Sassy Mama tip:  Whilst the kids are busying themselves, it’s worth treating yourself to the Pounamu Pebble Pedicure (a unique New Zealand experience).

Matakauri Lodge , Farrycroft Row, 569 Glenorchy Road, Queenstown, New Zealand, +64 3 441 1008 , [email protected] , www.robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/matakauri

What to do in Queenstown:

Bob’s Peak: This is a destination of its own. Kids of all ages are sure to love the gondola  ride to the peak or walk the Tiki Trail to this lookout spot. It’s full of restaurants and bars with postcard views.

Queenstown Hill : Make your way up this free walking trail. It’s a 2 to 3-hour climb with a decent incline (a 500-metre rise!) so this one is best suited for active families.

Time Tripper Queenstown : A great way to add a little education to your Queenstown visit. Step back in time with an animated show and discover what it was like when dinosaurs roamed the area. Then, take a deeper look at what lies beneath Lake Wakatipu in an underwater experience. You’ll see everything from diving ducks to Rainbow Trout.

Amisfield Estate Winery and Vineyard : Once you’ve satisfied the kids, it’s time to satisfy mums and dads! Head to this relaxing, family-friendly vineyard for Central Otago wines and two of the best cheeses we had on our trip: the homemade Amisfield Neufchâtel (a creamy black truffle soft cheese) and the Smoked Evansdale Tania.

Fergburger : Show me a kid who doesn’t like a burger? Serving up the most well-known burgers in New Zealand, this joint is overflowing with customers at all hours (it’s open 21 hours a day). If you’re staying at Eichardt’s Private Hotel, the concierge can call and order it for you (so you and your hungry family miss the queue) – you can then eat in the hotel at your convenience.

Public Kitchen & Bar : Steamer Wharf ferry terminal is bustling with restaurants and bars and this spot offers casual outdoor dining right by the lake. The mussels and chips are a solid bet!

The Cow : This charming restaurant was once a stone barn that housed cows needed for milking at the time of the gold rush in the 1860s. Operating as a spaghetti and pizza place since 1977, it is Queenstown’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. They know a thing or two about feeding kids healthy vegetables – by hiding them on a pizza!

For more family-friendly options in Queenstown  and the most up-to-date information, be sure to check out the official Tourism Queenstown website.

Sassy Mama tip: Take a 2-hour (scenic) drive to Wilken River Jets in Makarora. You can arrange everything from a Helicopter Glacier Experience, to a Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk in a single day. If the weather doesn’t permit, you can still head out and walk the Blue Pools track. The pools are located in an alpine region, so the weather changes rapidly – bring layers and waterproof jackets! As a relatively flat walk, it’s suitable for kids of all ages . On the drive back, stop at  Wanaka’s Wonderful World of Weirdness: A Puzzling World , an interactive play area for kids.

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Christchurch

As the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch has plenty to offer. Located on the east coast, the spot is known for its English heritage, The Avon River flowing through the city centre, and the urban parks along the river banks. A favourite tourist attraction is sailing across the river and sightseeing in a small, flat-bottomed boat. After winding through the city, head out to one of the cycling paths, Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens .

Sassy Mama tip: If you’re limited on time, you may prefer to spend as much time outside the city as possible. Spend just a half-day exploring Christchurch and then drive straight up to Kaikoura. On your journey to Kaikoura, stop off at the Two Rivers Cafe, Restaurant and Wine Tasting Room . Sit in the kid-friendly outdoor area (open until 5pm) or just grab some warming hot chocolates and a loose-leaf tea to go.

The drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura is about 2.5 hours. The journey hugs the scenic New Zealand coastline and, even though the landscape is rich with life , there’s a serene stillness in the air. The renowned coastal town of Kaikoura is the best place for marine life encounters, seaside walks, and platters of fresh crayfish. Got an animal-lover on your hands? This quaint spot is known for its teeming wildlife, including sperm whales, fur seals, albatross and dusky dolphins .

Where to stay in Kaikoura:

Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses

This lodge quickly became one of our favourite places on the South Island. Located only 12 kilometres from the town of Kaikoura, this contemporary country hotel offers convenient luxury in a completely remote place. The family-friendly tree lodges are the polar opposite of Hong Kong apartments. You’re likely to feel blissfully removed from the city , warm and cosy beside a (real!) fireplace. The treehouse rooms are set 10 metres above the ground, leaving you nestled in a secluded tree canopy, with views of the hills, sea and deer (the lodge is actually located on a deer breeding farm).

There are also airy Lodge Rooms and the newly-available Olive House , which are also both ideal options for bigger families with young children . The outdoor pool, sauna, incredibly fresh food, and relaxing, homely feel are bonuses to the rooms themselves! The exceptional service is paired with a naturally relaxed, laid-back feel that puts the guest’s desires at the forefront of every decision.

Sassy Mama tip: If you’ve got an early morning start, we’d recommend keeping the blinds half up at night so you wake to the breathtaking surroundings. It’s an atmospheric alarm clock. Then, head down to family breakfast and opt to sit in the outside area, tucked behind the cosy dining room.

Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses , State Highway 1 at Station Road, RD 1, Kaikoura, New Zealand, +64 3 319 6559 , [email protected] , www.hapukulodge.com

Heritage Collection, The White Morph

For a budget-friendly alternative (from $900 a night), check out The White Morph, which is self-contained waterfront hotel and motel accommodation in the heart of Kaikoura. If you’re looking for a no-frills, no-fuss spot in a prime location, this will get the job done. Plus, it’s located directly next to the Encounter Kaikoura activities meeting spot, so you can walk straight from your swim with dolphins into a warm bath . It’s a two-minute drive from the town centre, meaning there are plenty of activities and food options on your doorstep. And, as a self-contained apartment, this is a place you can stay in and cook too.

The White Morph , 92 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand, +64 3 319 5014 , [email protected] , www.heritagehotels.co.nz

What to do in Kaikoura:

Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura : Snorkelling amongst a pod of 40 dusky dolphins was an unforgettable experience. Encounter Kaikoura has a well-trained team, with crew members who are clearly passionate about the ocean, wildlife and sustainability . They lead snorkellers (of all ages!) through a seamlessly organised system, ending up with you kitted out in a well fitted, buoyant , wet suit,  swimming 2 metres away from playful wild dolphins (unbaited, untamed, and completely in their natural element!). Generally, pods from 50 to 1,000 dolphins can be found off the Kaikoura Coast. It’s every kid’s dream!

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway : This walkway is scattered with viewpoints to spot seal colonies, and you may even be faced with bold seals blocking the path. Steer clear of getting too close, as seals can feel threatened on land. There are a range of easy trails, ranging from 200 metres to 11.7km so you can pick something to suit the abilities of your littlest one’s legs!

Mount Fyffe Hike : Mount Fyffe and the Seaward Kaikoura Range are the two dominating features of Kaikoura’s natural skyline.  You can opt for a 2 to 3-day excursion, an 8-hour return hike or a 45-minute loop . With young kids in tow, the last option may be your preferred option – no judgement!

The Green Dolphin : Independently run and family-owned, this resto comes highly recommended. Run by a family of passionate cooks, this spot provides hungry guests with the finest, freshest local cuisine and Kaikoura hospitality.

The Pier Hotel : This bustling hotel restaurant and bar is a staple for locals. It does have one of the busiest pubs in town, so make dinner reservations in advance as the small kitchen only caters to a limited number.

Hislopes : A local café, serving up wholefoods and plenty of brekkie options. The eggs Benedict with homemade hash browns, fresh salmon and wilted spinach is exactly what the family needs before a long drive back to the city.

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Taupo and Rotorua

The lakeside town of Taupo is near the centre of New Zealand’s expansive North Island. The outdoor sports (think skiing, jet-boat rides and trout fishing) are paired with crystal-clear views  and a quaint, homely feel . As the centre of volcanic and geothermal activity , Taupo has countless hot springs, perfect for swimming and bathing.

From trout fishing to horse riding, Rotorua is equally as full of natural outdoor activity . Thick forests make up this thermal wonderland, and the geothermal parks, hiking, mountain biking and glow worm caves are all worthy attractions for families.

Where to stay in Taupo and Rotorua:

Acacia Cliffs Lodge (Taupo)

The kind-hearted owners, Linda and Rick Whitlock , will make your stay here unforgettable. The couple extends a warm welcome to all  and the love they exude for Taupo is palpable. The luxury lodge caters to up to eight guests in four boutique rooms , each with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a private deck or garden courtyard. Set on a plot high above Lake Taupo, the lodge offers an uninterrupted panorama of the lake , sharing its space only with clucking hens, grazing sheep and an abundance of green. Though stylised and modern, the interior puts comfort first – something we are always in favour of. A standard evening includes Rick whipping up family-style feasts, whilst guests are invited to gather around the shared dining table . The duo is skilled at creating a real community feel amongst travellers, and it makes their stunning property a sanctuary to stay in.

Sassy Mama tip: If you’re travelling with another family, you can opt for exclusive booking and have the entire place to yourselves. Taupo airport transfers can also be included free of cost!

Acacia Cliffs Lodge , 1/133 Mapara Road, Acacia Bay, Lake Taupo, New Zealand, +64 21 821 338 , www.acaciacliffslodge.co.nz

Treetops Lodge ( Rotorua)

With its own expansive grounds, Treetops Lodge offers tons of adventures and activities for guests of all ages. The  local produce, glow worm caves, horse-riding, and long trail walks leading to remote waterfalls are all highlights for visiting families. This modern hunting lodge has 2,500 acres of 800-year old native forest, featuring rivers, lakes, waterfalls and 35 miles of hiking trails. The lodge offers “ Signature Experiences ” every day, a relaxing Wilderness Spa , access to  The Kinloch Club (an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course) and helicopter adventures.

When it comes to the full dining experience, Treetops Lodge was one of our most memorable. Fresh produce is used to whip up unique combinations. Our dinner favourites included fresh ceviche, and our breakfast go-to was the sweet potato hash brown. Celebrating a special occasion as a family or couple? Guests are invited to enjoy a private dining experience in the library . Candlelit and by a fireplace, it’s an intimate and calming way to spend your evening – a welcome change from overcrowded restaurants!

Treetops Lodge , 351 Kearoa Road, RD1, Horohoro, Rotorua, New Zealand,  +64 7 333 2066 , www.treetops.co.nz

What to do in Taupo and Rotorua:

Kai Waho Outdoor Experience : The Māori words “Kai” and “Waho” can be combined to describe a master of the wilderness. That’s exactly what Tom Loughlin, the legendary “tangata whenua” (person of the land),  is. The Kai Waho experience is all about sharing the Māori traits of respect and balance to guests that are eager to learn. As your host, Tom can pick you up directly from Acacia Cliffs Lodge, about 1.5 hours away, and take you through his tribe’s land, out in the New Zealand bush for a genuine cultural experience . Tom advises that this is more suitable for kids over the age of 9.

A day trip includes everything from a traditional Māori Hangi (where food is cooked in a pit under the ground) to exploring some of the 2,000 hectares of Māori-owned wilderness. Kai Waho prides itself in never offering the same experience twice, so each day is personalised to suit the guests’ interests.  The natural flow of conversation means that you and the kids will be learning about New Zealand’s history and culture every step of the way.

Tom is an experienced Māori chef and search-and-rescue specialist (tracker) , with deep knowledge and understanding of Māori relationships. It’s clear that he feels a physical, emotional and spiritual connection with the land, and he’s passionate about sharing the true nature of New Zealand with his guests . He manages 5,000 acres of Māori land up in the Kaimanawa Ranges and takes tourists, Māori groups and New Zealand youths out there to hunt, cook, hike and learn. Whether you’re taking a day trip or planning a longer stay, it’s an entirely unique experience.

Huka Falls : A short distance north of the town, Huka Falls is a set of waterfalls on the Waikato River that drains Lake Taupo. The whole family can opt to walk or cycle there.

Otumuheke Stream : These natural, geothermal hot springs are in Taupo’s Spa Thermal Park, a natural “hot spot” on the banks of the Waikato River. Soak away in the pools before, or after, walking to Huka Falls.

Craters of the Moon : This geothermal area features accessible boardwalks meandering through steam vents and bubbling craters. Run by a small charitable trust, admission is only $8 per person.

Mount Ruapehu : The largest active volcano in New Zealand rests proudly in Tongariro National Park, a World Heritage National Park.

Vine Eatery and Bar : This New Zealand and Mediterranean influenced spot offers an extensive tapas menu, designed to be shared. We’d suggest four to five plates of seafood and fresh veg between two people.

Rotorua Museum : Learn about New Zealand’s heritage at the iconic Rotorua Museum (walking distance from the centre of Rotorua) . There are currently free daily tours of the Government Gardens, where little learners of all ages can find out about traditional Māori culture and the battle history of the area.

Polynesian Spa : In need of a mama-only spa session? This developed geothermal spa facility in Rotorua offers the therapeutic benefits of the award-winning Polynesian Spa mineral water . The slightly acidic Priest Spring works wonders on muscle pain, while the alkaline Rachel Spring nourishes and rejuvenates the skin.

Waitomo Glow Worm Caves : Take your pick between a walking tour, a black water rafting boat ride or shooting through tubes to witness the glistening glow worms in the world-famous Waitomo caves. Whether your family is after leisure or excitement, Waitomo’s underground caves give you the chance to observe these minuscule beings up close. While it may not look quite like the trending Instagram videos, the clusters of worms really do resemble a star-studded sky , and this cooling cave experience is unique to New Zealand.

Sassy Mama tip: Conveniently, the glow worm caves are located on your drive from Rotorua to Auckland . Head straight from your day in the caves into the city. The drive from Taupo to Waitomo takes about 2.5 hours, and Auckland is another 2.5 hours north from there. Once the towering green trees are replaced with lamp posts and buildings, you’ve reached your final destination.

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It’s no surprise that Auckland is frequently listed as one of the most liveable cities in the world . The combination of culture, art, natural beauty and convenience make New Zealand’s largest cosmopolitan centre a hub for locals and tourists alike. As the narrowest part of New Zealand, this widespread, active city has easy access to nature. The main similarity it has to Hong Kong is that it’s an energetic city, with easy harbour access, and 30-minute drives to beaches . Although these West Coast beaches overlook the Tasman sea, between Australia and New Zealand, so the differences are vast!

Where to stay in Auckland:

Heritage Auckland

This well-known hotel is one of Auckland’s most historic buildings . With 185 rooms across the two wings, you can take your pick between The Tower (offering modern, contemporary designs) or The Hotel (sporting a traditional take) . The rooms are more spacious than you’d expect for a city hotel, with all your necessities on hand. If you choose to dine in, the Hectors Restaurant features local produce, and the chef and team are especially good at catering to necessary dietary requirements . With vegetation and vegan options, it’s working on developing sustainable habits. The Lobby Bar, rooftop swimming pool, gym, and tennis court are all well-received additions.

Heritage Auckland ,  35 Hobson Street, Auckland, New Zealand, +64 9 379 8553 , [email protected] , www.heritagehotels.co.nz/heritage-auckland

What to do in Auckland:

Karekare Beach : Located on the West Coast, this beach is recognised for its isolated natural beauty. With thick rainforests, black sand and unpredictable weather, Auckland’s West Coast is very different from the East.

Auckland War Memorial Museum : You could spend days here and still leave with more to see. We’d suggest heading to the Weird and Wonderful area, on the 2nd floor, to see the famous Moa bird . Kids will also love the cultural performances, which almost act as little crash courses about New Zealand’s history.

The Winter Garden at the Auckland Domain : This treasure is located right opposite the Museum. You’ll find a constantly changing selection of rare plants and flowers set within picturesque Victorian-style glasshouses.

Cornwall Park : This is the biggest park in Auckland, leading up to the volcanic peak, One Tree Hill. Driving through the entrance, try and get your little ones to spot the “Māori Christmas tree” – the Pohutukawa trees with its crimson needle-like flower. The entire park is packed with history, farm life and places to explore.

Newmarket Shopping Centre : A premier shopping district with plenty of fashion and entertainment options. It’s located minutes away from Auckland’s Central Business District.

Mount Eden Hike : Claiming the title of the highest natural spot in Auckland, it’s worth taking a trip up to the top of Mount Eden (Maungawhau), one of the 48 volcanic cones.

Piha Beach : The seaside village of Piha in the west of Auckland presents a dramatic black iron-sand coastline. It’s said to offer the best spot for surfers in New Zealand!

Parnell Rose Gardens : With a quaint set up, you wouldn’t imagine these gardens are home to over 5,000 roses. You’ll experience bursts of colours and fragrances all throughout summer and autumn.

Depot Eatery : Expect Pinot on tap, oysters and sliders. This buzzing industrial-chic spot is full of friendly vibes and fab food. With no reservations available, it’s more suited for a date night or late family lunch.

Waiheke Island : As the most populated and second-largest island in the Hauraki Gulf , Waiheke is an effortlessly enjoyable way to end your time in New Zealand. The inviting island is a 30 to 40-minute ferry away from Auckland, and the entire place radiates a beautiful bohemian feel . Head to the Oyster Inn for live music and incredible seafood or check out one of the family-friendly beaches. End your day sprawled across a beanbag at Cable Bay Vineyards , letting the kids cartwheel on the sea-view lawn. With space for the active members of the family to run around, nibbles for even the pickiest eaters, and a gorgeous selection of wine for you to sip your way through, you really couldn’t ask for much more.

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Editor’s note: This post was originally published by Tania Shroff on 23, May 2018 and updated on 10, February 2020. 

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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.

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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.

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New Zealand North Island Family Itinerary: The Best Things to do in the North Island with kids

New Zealand North Island Itinerary

l lived in the North Island of New Zealand for the majority of my childhood and as I look back now, I’m amazed at all the things opportunities we had and all the amazing things to do in the North Island.  

So many visitors are focused on the South Island (which is incredible) and only stay a couple of days in the North Island. This to me is crazy, because the North Island is just as awesome, but in a different way.  Also huge bonus: some parts of the North Island are well off the beaten track and you will be able to watch the sunrise all on your own.  I think that is totally the dream right?

To get a real sense of New Zealand, I implore you to stay as long as you can.  Everyone I have spoken, leaves New Zealand wishing they had more time here and are already making plans to come back.  I also understand that we are far from everywhere (except Australia, but even that is 3 hours flight time) so it has probably cost you a lot of money to get here.  So make the trip worthwhile and spend some time not only visiting the highlights, but getting off the beaten track and getting to know the culture.

Right, so you’re wondering what to see in New Zealand’s North Island, lets take a look below.

This New Zealand North Island Itinerary is designed to hit the major highlights, provide a bit of relaxation along with your sightseeing must do list.  There are many more amazing spots around New Zealand, but this will give you some good bones for your trip.

This North Island Self Drive Itinerary covers everything all the absolute Must Do’s in the North Island.  (Please note this article may contain affiliate links, they do not cost the readers any extra but do help me run this website so I can provide you the best tips for your amazing New Zealand road trip.)

• Maori culture
• Amazing landscapes
• Beautiful beaches
• Adventure activities
• A raft of great activities for kids
• Epic swimming spots
• Walks with great views
• Options to see wildlife like kiwi and dolphins 

Overview of New Zealand North Island Self Drive Itinerary

• Day 0-4 Auckland
• Day 5-7 Coromandel
• Day 8-13 Rotorua
• Day 14 Taupo
• Day 15-16 Tongariro National Park
• Day 17-21 Wellington

How to get around New Zealand

This New Zealand itinerary is a self drive tour of New Zealand’s North Island.  It assumes you have a rental car or a campervan, both are great for family travel.  If you would like more information about choosing a family campervan in New Zealand,  click here

There are many place to camp in the North Island, many by beaches and incredible scenery, so we highly recommend a campervan, or using campsites and holiday parks.

Weather in New Zealand

I have assumed this is a summer holiday, as this is the most popular time for tourists to travel in New Zealand.  But besides the days of visiting some of the beaches, you could do this itinerary at any time of the year.  The North Island is much warmer than the South Island in general, with the areas of Northland , Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty being quite temperate and more humid than the rest of the country.  For example, average temperatures in Auckland in winter can be around 10C.

New Zealand is a country where you have four seasons in one day.  Seriously, even in the summer, kiwis won’t leave home without a sweatshirt or a jacket.  To find out more information about what to pack and  weather in New Zealand click here

Day 0-1: Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand

Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, but don’t be mistaken, it is not the capital. (that’s in Wellington) Arrival day with a family can be a mission.  You have probably come a long way, are jet lagged (I always think the jet lag is worse coming into the future) and you’ve been travelling with kids, which means (unless they’re older) that you didn’t sleep much either.

So take a day to rest up, maybe explore the local area a tiny bit and don’t even think about jumping in a car and driving too far on this arrival day.  Find some sun (hopefully), visit a beach to chill out and let the kids run.  Top beaches include:  Mission Bay, Takapuna Beach, Devonport Beach etc and watch the sunset over Rangitoto before getting an early night.  There are many things to do in Auckland , you will be spoilt for choice!

Day 2: Auckland City Exploration

Base yourself in the city today! Visit the Auckand Sky Tower for a city view or jump off the tower.

Visit the Auckland Waterfront and Viaduct where the Americas Cup sailing regatta was held. Stroll over the footbridge to Wynyard Corner, (great restaurants, playground and water play) Our kids love watching the yachts here and how the footbridge rises for the boats.

Head to Mt Eden to experience a real volcano that you can actually climb it.  (its grass and not at all like the scary White Island version)

They say ‘eat local’ and straight from the source, so head to the Auckland Fish Market for some of New Zealands best seafood. Don’t worry, they cook it too.  Or you could head to one of Aucklands child friendly pubs with excellent menus and even playgrounds

Day 3: Auckland Options Day

• Take a Waiheke winery tour on the picturesque Waiheke Island , or
• Enjoy the black sand beaches and Lion Rock at Piha (careful: huge surf) as well as the beautiful Karekare Waterfall (50 mins drive from Auckland City Centre) or
• Find waterfalls and beaches at Shakespear Regional Park (40 minute road trip from Auckland)

Day 4: Auckland – Rangitoto Island

This is your chance to climb a volcano (don’t worry, its extinct) so catch the city ferry to Rangitoto Island and take on the summit walk (2 hours, gradual incline, 7km) Fantastic city views! There are many things to do on Rangitoto such as taking a visit to the lava caves (take a flashlight) This is a great day trip which will probably take about 5 hours return. 

There is also a guided tour that includes a train journey on the island that will save those little legs from too much walking.  For prices of this tour, click here

If walking is all too much, then head on a boat for the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Watching tour.   There is an array of marine animals out in the harbour, and a guarantee that if you don’t see any whales or dolphins (very rare) then you get to come back for free.  Click here for prices on this awesome boat tour

Day 5: Coromandel

Drive to Coromandel (2 hours, 20 min plus Auckland traffic)

Stop at the Pokeno Dairy (cornerstore) for the biggest ice creams.  Its totally okay to have ice cream for morning tea … you’re on your New Zealand holiday!

Check the tide schedule , then 2 hours either side of low tide, head to Hot Water Beach with a bucket and spade and dig yourself a personal hot pool right in the sand.  This is one of the best free New Zealand North Island attraction

Day 6: Coromandel

Sunrise at the epic Narnia film location: Cathedral Cove (40 min walk from carpark, or a little longer with gear)  This is one of my favourite North Island beaches, but the whole area up here is full of brilliant ones. Bring a backpack to carry young kids and think about the gear you have to take, you’re walking it all in and out.

For a secret beach, only reached by foot or boat, head to New Chums Beach (30 mins walk – rocky and steep in places)  

Day 7: Coromandel

Beach Day, Rest Day or Karangahake Gorge Visit 

The Karangahake Gorge is located 90 minutes south of Hot Water Beach or 30 mins from Thames (major service town for Coromandel)  If mining tunnels, biking a rail trail, waterfalls, rivers and historic railways are your thing, then this is a great sidetrip for you.  There are some stunning Karangahake Gorge Walks such as the Windows Walk and Rails tunnel loop that aren’t too long so perfect for families

There are amazing family adventures here but often skipped for the “highlights reel.”

Day 8: Drive to Rotorua via Hobbiton

It’s a 2.5 hour drive from the Coromandel to Hobbiton. Kiwis aren’t known for spending money in their own country, especially for a really touristy attraction but I just loved this. It’s as magical, green and lifelike as you can imagine. So if you’re wondering if Hobbiton is worth visiting , even if you’re not a superfan… then Yes and the kids will love it. 

It’s probably a given, but do rewatch the films with your kids before you go. It will definitely bring the magic alive! You can take a stroller too… but there are a few stairs, and no doubt someone will give you a hand up them!  I’ve done it with a stroller and 9 month old and it was fine.

A tour guide will take you around Hobbiton and feed you interesting facts. Did you know the iconic tree is completely fake, or they paid people to walk around the Hobbit holes so the tracks looked worn? They even paid someone to remove the frogs from the pond because they were too noisy. At $84 for a adult, it is a splurge but kids under 9 are free (but they do need a ticket).

Book your Hobbiton tickets in advance as this North Island attraction often sells out.

Lunch option: Kaimai Cheese Factory where you can watch them make cheese from local animals.

Afternoon Option to visit Wairere Falls , or continue 1 hour to Rotorua

Day 9: Rotorua

Start your Rotorua holiday off with a bang and walk to Kerosene Creek to the free hot pools and swim in the hot waterfall.  Make sure to go early before it gets too busy.

Take a walk high up in the forest at the Redwoods Treetop Walk , or look into the night option which is just beautiful.  This is one of the newest North Island attractions, so go take a look!

For more detailed information of the best things to do in Rotorua, click here

Day 10: Rotorua

Day 11: Rotorua

• Luxury at the Polynesian Spa. 
• White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River down the largest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.
• Adrenalin Rush with Downhill Mountain Biking in the Redwoods Forest

Day 12: Rotorua

Have a family fun day at the Skyline Gondola and Luge and for city views and downhill fun.  Click here for the best deals   Older kids will also enjoy mountain biking here.

Dinner at Cobb & Co  

Cobb& Co is a saloon style family restaurant that every 30 year old + would have been to as a family. Kids love it because theres a great place area inside the restaurant. Parents love the peace and quiet and the extensive kids menu. Even a menu for 1-3 year olds and priced accordingly. Who can beat NZD$7.50 for nibbles, main and dessert for a toddler?

Alternate Option:  There are lots of tour that runs day trips to Waitomo to visit Waitomo Caves.  But there are lots of things to do in Waitomo , so you could also look at spending a few days here as a detour

Day 13: Rotorua

Day 14: Taupo

Drive 1 hour to Taupo to check out NZ’s largest lake, which is actually a volcano, head to the cliffs of Mine Bay to see ancient Maori art carved into the rock, jump off a bridge at the Lake Taupo bungy and finish the day at Huka Falls , which spits out 1/4 million litres of water per second.  Taupo itself is one of the best North Island points of interest and you will find a lot of to do here (perhaps add an extra day or two if you like)

Day 15: Morning in Taupo

Day 16 Tongariro

Day 17: Drive to Wellington

A good stop on the way south is the Levin Adventure Playground . (It’s about 1 hour 20 mins from Wellington) Its huge and there’s an indoor picnic area where you can warm a bottle or eat lunch indoors. (its free) Such a good set up for families.  You’ll find it at 93 Oxford Street, Levin

Day 18: Wellington

Recover from yesterdays drive, then try out some of the most iconic things to do in Wellington such as a ride the Cable Car for great views across the city and walk back down through Wellington’s Botanic Gardens.

Day 19: Wellington

Wellington Waterfront Day

Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand is a modern and innovative museum that is free, however donations are welcome. Kids can dig outside for bones, learn about maori culture and marvel in the exhibitions that really should be art pieces. If you’re going to choose any New Zealand museum to visit, pick this one.

Ride Crocodile bikes along the waterfront, play in the Frank Kitts Park Playground, swim at Oriental Bay, Rock Climb or Kayak at Fergs Kayaks.  There is plenty to do on the Wellington Waterfront.

Our kids loved watching the ships in the harbour and riding their bikes along the waterfront.

Day 20: Wellington

Day 21: Wellington

Walking Day (options)

Paekakariki Escarpment Track: Perfect for fit walkers with amazing views over the Wellington Coastline. 2-4 hour walk with the train back to start. Steep and no rails, so children to be carried or be very careful.

Mt Victoria Walk for views over all of Wellington City (4.7km or 2.5 hours)

Putangirua Pinnacles, Wairarapa: 2 hour walk to incredible rock formation and Lord of the Rings Film Location

Brooklyn Wind Turbine Route: Known for its wind, Wellington is a great place for wind turbines. 2 hour walk

Swim and stroll at Days Bay on the other side of Wellington Harbour. Theres a cute wee chocolate shop and cafe called Chocolate Dayz there too.

Wow you made it!  The best things to do in the North Island, all whittled done into one article.  There are so many things to do in New Zealand, we hope this has narrowed down your choices, just a bit.  But surely you aren’t just going to stay in the North Island right?

Just on the Cook Strait Ferry, take your car or campervan for a wee 3 hour boat trip and head for the South Island now.  For tips on choosing the best Cook Strait Ferry, click here

CLICK HERE  FOR OUR FAMILY SOUTH ISLAND ITINERARY

If you are any questions about this North Island New Zealand Road Trip, or need more inspiration, flick us an email or come and chat with us over on Instagram or Facebook

Founder of Backyard Travel Family

Jen is a super organiser when it comes to travel. Having travelled extensively in Europe and Africa, has lived in London and the USA and holidayed in many parts of Asia, she is not a newbie to the travel space

Jen has three young children, 6 and under and travels around New Zealand with them.

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Family tours

Who needs a buffet and a ball pit when you've got the whole world to play in?

Designed by parents for kids, both big and small, our family trips are the kind you’ll reminisce about for years to come. Full of authentic cultural experiences, the kids will have plenty to brag about at school. Think: playing soccer with Maasai warriors in Kenya , learning ancient martial arts with Buddhist monks in South Korea or sleeping in a traditional Navajo hogan in Monument Valley. With child-friendly accommodations and a local leader to handle the logistics, you can focus on making core memories. Your sense of adventure doesn't disappear when you have kids, so why should your family holiday options be limited?

Our teenage family trips have a minimum age of 10 and offer more active itineraries for older children.

If your little ones love fairytales, they’ll love waking up in the regal rooms of a 17th-century palace in Alsisar, Rajasthan. Nestled in a desert town full of legendary stories, this hotel oozes history and grandeur with manicured gardens, colourful courtyards and dazzling dining rooms you could spend hours exploring. 

Learn how to play the taiko, an ancient instrument traditionally used to initiate ceremonies and call soldiers to battle. Made from large wooden barrels with animal skin stretched over both ends, it produces a thunderous sound that vibrates through your entire body. Watch the experts play before grabbing a pair of bachi wooden sticks and having a bash yourself. 

Say ahoy! (or xin chao) to your Vietnamese captain and set sail around the karst-studded waters of Ha Long Bay. Cruise among hundreds of limestone islets, drop anchor to explore caves filled with stalactites and jump in for a swim with an epic backdrop. After enjoying a tasty dinner, head out to the deck where you’ll be wowed by a sky speckled with stars.  

Who needs video games when you have an ancient city to explore? Angkor Thom, home to the iconic Angkor Wat, was once the largest pre-industrial city in history. Hop in a tuk-tuk with a guide from Driver Srey – a female-owned social enterprise empowering local women – and watch the ruins come alive. Then, wind through Ta Prohm’s maze-like passageways tangled with giant tree roots. 

Saddle up for a sunset camel trek through the stunning Sahara. After journeying along the windswept dunes, you’ll be greeted by our local friends for a night in a desert camp. Enjoy a feast of traditional foods like tagine, couscous and pastilla before settling into the silence of the desert and gazing up at the Milky Way. If you’re lucky, you may see a shooting star (or 10)

These trips are for families only – including any grandparents, aunts or uncles who’d like to join, of course. As long as you’re travelling with a child aged between 5 (or 10 for some itineraries) and 17, you’re a family in our eyes. Plus, all travellers aged 17 and younger receive a 10% discount .

Our groups are small enough to avoid the crowds and reach out-of-the-way places, but big enough for a good social mix. Our average group size of 10 allows us to hop aboard local boats, buses or trains, eat at family-run restaurants, and stay in traditional guesthouses and homestays. 

Travelling with us is a bit like travelling with old friends. You’ll join a group of 3 to 5 families from all over the world, and the kids tend to hit it off straight away so you can enjoy some well-earned R&R. We often find that families stay in touch long after the trip ends. 

Boredom? Nope. The biggest challenge of travelling with kids is keeping them entertained, which is why our trips have plenty of fun activities and free time. We try to keep travelling time to a minimum and use hotels with pools. Your leader can also suggest activities based on your kid’s hobbies or curriculum.

Our leaders are specially trained to run family adventures, so you and the kids will be well taken care of. You can also rest easy knowing we conduct safety assessments on all our activities to meet local standards as well as our own comprehensive safety policy.

As the world’s largest travel B Corp , we use travel as a force for good. We give back to the communities we visit, carbon offset our trips and take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. When you travel with us, you travel with purpose.

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Home Family Friendly Holidays 10 days New Zealand Family Vacation

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A truly captivating experience awaits visitors to Auckland's Sky Tower. At 328 metres, it is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and offers breathtaking views for up to 80 kilometres in every direction. Travel up in the glass-fronted lifts to one of the three spectacular viewing platforms, or for more thrills and excitement, SkyWalk round the pergola at 192 metres up or SkyJump off the Tower! Experience Peter Gordon's chic and elegant restaurant - The Sugar Club, relax with a coffee or light refreshments at Sky Lounge or dine at Orbit - Auckland's only 360-degree revolving restaurant.

Kelly Tarlton's SEA LIFE Aquarium

Set on the waterfront of Auckland City on Okahu Bay, just moments from the famous Mission Bay beach, Kelly Tarlton's SEA LIFE Aquarium is one of Auckland's top attractions. Kelly Tarlton's showcases over 30 live animal exhibits in spectacular habitat displays, including the world's largest Antarctic penguin colony exhibit and amazing underwater viewing tunnels. The fantastic Animal Adventures offer unique and thrilling 'up close' underwater encounters with huge sharks, including the all new Shark Dive Xtreme and Shark Cage experience. You can also head out onto the ice to get up close to our amazing penguins with Penguin Discovery.

Ruakuri Cave Tour

According to Maori legend, Ruakuri Cave was first discovered 400 to 500 years ago by a young Maori hunting for birds. He was attacked by wild dogs just outside the original cave entrance. Re-opened in 2005, the cave is an amazing example of engineering and natural cave structure. Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of Waitomo's compelling subterranean experiences. Journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, and marvel at the softly folding shawl like limestone formations and crystal tapestries. Hear the distant thunder of the subterranean waterfalls and get up close to the glowworms. Ruakuri Cave is New Zealand's longest guided underground walking tour. With clever and innovative design, Ruakuri Cave has full wheelchair and pushchair access.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: 39 Waitomo Caves Rd, Waitomo. Phone: 0800 456 922​ or 07 878 8228. Notes:  please pick up Ruakuri tickets at the Waitomo Glow Worm Cave (39 Waitomo Village Road). Then you will have to drive to the Ruakuri Cave from the Glow Worm Cave. Check-in: 20 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: takes 2 hours How to get there: Waitomo Caves is 2.5 hours south of Auckland, 1 hour south of Hamilton, and 2 hours west of Rotorua. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are situated 8km along Waitomo Caves Road, off State Highway 3. What to bring: Trainers + socks, warm top. Group size: max. 15 people. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Transfer from meeting point.

Waitomo Black Labyrinth

Waitomo Black Labyrinth is the original Waitomo subterranean adventure that will have guests climbing, black water tubing and leaping through Ruakuri Cave. In over three hours guests will take leaps of faith over cascading waterfalls and float serenely down an underground river with a glowworm show on the vaulted limestone galleries above. The journey concludes when the tour emerges into the sunlight of the Waitomo forest.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Waitomo Homestead - 584 State Highway 3, Waitomo. Phone: 0800 228 464. Check-in: 20 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 3 hours. Video: https://youtu.be/ZCIdQ-nD6DI How to get there: Waitomo Caves is located about 2.5 hours drive from Auckland or 2 hours from Rotorua. The office is 1.2 kms before you enter Waitomo Village on the left side . Watch out for car park on the left with signage and a cafe. Park your car. Valuables can be locked away securely. What to bring: Swim suit (to wear under wetsuit), towel (for a warm shower afterwards). Waiver Form to complete prior to arrival:  https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/auto/?auto_waiverid=5fbd6c9d37c99&auto_tag=3053491_4120310 What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit, Afternoon Tea, Wet suit. Notes: Participants are required to be at least 12 years of age with a minimum weight of 45 kg. Sorry, no cameras and GoPro's can't be taken on this tour. Max. 12 person each tour party.

Rotorua Canopy Tours

Rotorua Canopy Tours is a zipline adventure activity with the experience of a lifetime. It’s a magnificent environment you’ll be taken to – a long forgotten ancient forest just like the whole of New Zealand once was. But with a very fun way of moving through it – a low impact mode of transport to get you high in the ancient canopy!

Important Tour Details - Original: Departs/ Finishes: 147 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua. Phone: 0800 226 679 or 07 343 1001. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure at base or hotel pick-up by prior arrangement. Length of tour: allow 3 hours. How to get there: Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour; allowing for sufficient time to check in and fill out your waiver. Please note: They run the tours like an airline and if you not arrive on time you will miss the tour! What to bring: Check out the weather forecast and make sure you're dressed for the conditions. You'll be outside for 3 hours and the forest is a little cooler than in town. We can provide full wet weather gear, beanies and gloves if require. Bring any medication you may require and a camera, or GoPro with helmet strap or smartphone that can be secured in a zip pocket. You won't need: (you may leave any items you do not take on the tour securely at the base): Valuables, keys, wallets, handbags, backpacks, scarves, sunglasses, food & drink. You must wear closed-toe shoes, no exception. What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit. Notes: To participate in the tour guests must weigh no more than 120kg (264lb). Please let us know in advance if there are children booked on the tour who weigh less than 35kg. The minimum age is 10years. We operate in all weather conditions except high winds and electrical storms. The forest is at its most beautiful during rain.

Mitai Maori Village

Mitai Maori Village is situated a 5 minute drive from the centre of town in Rotorua. Be enthralled by the natural bush setting, see warriors in traditional dress paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream, and don’t miss the only opportunity in the Rotorua area to see glow worms in their natural habitat. Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat, coupled with the grace and beauty of the poi dance. The Mitai family is proud to have created a sacred and spiritual place that offers an indigenous cultural experience like no other.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off, Rotorua Hotels. Phone: 07 3439132 Reconfirm: Please call Mitai on the morning and reconfirm. Check-in: 10 minutes prior departure. Wait at hotel reception. Length of tour: takes 3.5 hours How to get there: Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off. Actual venue is at 196 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua. What to bring: Camera, rain jacket, required medication, warm top. What is provided: Hotel transfers in Rotorua, Qualified Guide, Maori Welcome, Concert, Dinner. Notes: wine and beer can be bought at extra charge.

Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm Tours

On a picturesque private farmland, guests can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies in a fascinating two hour guided tour. The set has been completely rebuilt for The Hobbit and will remain as it was seen in the films and The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. During the tour, guests will see Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, double arched bridge, gardens built for the films and other structures. Masterfully recreated, guests can relax at the Inn of the Hobbits as part of the tour. All guests receive one complimentary refreshment from the exclusively crafted Southfarthing range. The inn also offers traditional fare, including the popular beef and ale pie. The Shire's Rest cafe is conveniently located at the Entrance to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Guests can relax and soak up the unique atmosphere with a cup of coffee or a light meal in The Shire's Rest Cafe. Both venues are also available for functions, conferences or other occasions.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata. Phone: 07 888 9913. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 2.5 hours. How to get there: The tour starting point is just outside Matamata Village at 501 Buckland Road, Matamata. Transfer from Matamata Information Centre and Rotorua are also available. Please call if transfers are required. What to bring: Backpack or bag, camera, rain jacket, required medication, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, trainers with socks, warm top, water bottle. What is provided: Transfer on request from Rotorua, Qualified Guide, Afternoon Tea. Group size: max. 41 people. Notes: You will be outside most of the time, so dress according to weather conditions.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Waimangu Volcanic Valley is Rotorua's premier tourist attraction and a ‘must do’ eco-experience when you visit Rotorua. The exciting thermal attraction and sightseeing tours include unique ecology, rare botany and fascinating geothermal features such as steaming volcanic crater lakes. A protected scenic reserve and wildlife refuge, Waimangu Volcanic Valley geothermal park encompasses beautiful Lake Rotomahana and is set in pristine New Zealand bush. Waimangu Volcanic Valley is just 20 minutes south of Rotorua and 40 minutes north of Taupo. Self-guided eco-tours and walks through this geothermal park are offered, from a 45 minute walk to an extended 4 hours of discovery through this amazing Valley.

Important Tour Details: Tour Name: Full Waimangu Experience Departs/ Finishes: 587 Waimangu Road, Rotorua. Phone: +64 7 366 6137 Check-in: 10 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: takes 3+ hours What to bring: Camera, rain jacket, required medication, warm top, walking shoes. What is provided: Entrance for self-guided walk, 45 min boat cruise around Lake Rotomahana.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Thousands of years in the making and nestled within a natural bush setting, walks through this unique volcanic area take between 30 and 75 minutes. The Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily to heights of up to 20 metres. Features include the world famous Champagne Pool and Primrose Terrace as well as hot springs, steaming ground, expansive vistas and huge volcanic craters. The constant bubbling and erupting of the Mud Pool add to your experience at New Zealand’s most colourful volcanic attraction.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off. Phone: 0800 000 432 (HeadFirst Travel) Reconfirm: Please call above freephone number day prior. Check-in: 10 minutes prior departure. Wait at hotel reception. Length of tour: takes 3.5 hours What to bring: Camera, rain jacket, required medication, warm top, walking shoes. What is provided: Transfer, Entrance fee, Qualified Driver-Guide.

Polynesian Spa

Polynesian Spa is New Zealand’s leading international day spa, providing a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. In a picturesque, tranquil setting overlooking Lake Rotorua, visitors can enjoy a wonderful fusion of relaxing hot spring pool bathing, sumptuous spa and massage therapies and picturesque lake views. Polynesian Spa is a modern spa complex offering hot mineral bathing in 26 bathing pools including both public and private pools, a family spa, a luxury spa and spa therapies.

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.

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.

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.

Wheelie Fantastic Cycle Tours

Wheelie Fantastic Cycle Tours offer a wide range of high quality cycling experiences in the Nelson Tasman region of the top of the South Island, New Zealand. Specialising in bespoke and luxury tours which can be self-guided, guided and premium guided. The guided option has one guide, premium guided gives complete flexibility, with a bike guide and a guide with a vehicle in attendance for the duration of the tour. Using local knowledge, we create unique itineraries to help our customers discover the hidden gems of the area. We also have put together day and multi-day itineraries that are ready to enjoy and which caters for a wide range of abilities. We use high quality bikes which are designed for comfort and performance on roads and trails.

Important Tour Details - Moutere Wine And Artisans Day Tour: Departs/ Finishes: Pick-up from accommodation. Contact Details: Wheelie Fantastic Phone: 0800 229 253 or +64 3 543 2245 Pick-up time:  as stated above. Length of tour: full day tour. Cycling distance will be 25-30 kms. Fitness Level:  Moderate (more than basic level of fitness or hire an e-bike) What to bring:  layers of warm clothing, wind proof jacket, cycle shorts or comfortable shorts, trainer shoes, sun screen (SPF 30+ is best), sun glasses and your camera! What is provided: Bike hire, helmet, pannier day bag, wine tasting (tastings locations subject to availability). Purchase pick-ups. Route map and guide with discounts for wine and food. Notes: Please advise re any dietary requirements or allergies.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Flying Fox Helihike

The fly-in, fly-out Helihike combines the excitement of walking on the Fox Glacier with the thrill of helicopter flights. Suitable for children from 9 years old. By flying in you are able to access and explore a part of the glacier where its forces work hardest and often create spectacular ice caves and arches. Equipped with leather boots and other equipment, you board the helicopter for your first flight over the pinnacles of the lower icefall. Here, the ice is in constant motion. Take in views of the dramatic upper icefall and Victoria Falls, which is the melt river of the hidden Victoria glacier, before landing. Your landing site on the ice is a remote and exceptionally beautiful part of the glacier. At this stage, your guide outfits you with crampons, specially designed for these ice conditions and you follow the ice steps cut by your guide as you explore the amazing formations and ice caves which are only seen there. Each departure is a true voyage of exploration. There are so many changing features that the guides always find something new.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Fox Guides Building, 44 Main Road, Fox Village. Phone: 0800 111 600. Check-in: 20 minutes prior departure. Video:  https://youtu.be/9dtQvQB41mI Length of tour: allow 4 hours. How to get there: Fox Glacier Guides are not hard to find in Fox Glacier – head for the large building on the main street and look for the Fox Glacier Guiding sign on the roof! You can’t miss. What to bring: Camera, rain jacket, required medication, sun glasses, sun screen, warm hat and gloves, warm top, daypack, a drink and snacks are useful. What is provided: 2 x helicopter flights, safety briefing, qualified guide, First Aid Kit, ground transport, quality leather boots, socks, crampons. Notes: This is a 4-hour trip requiring a reasonable level of fitness. 3 - 4 layers of warm upper body clothing (jeans are not recommended on wet days, as they become very cold, uncomfortable to wear).

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.

Paradise Discovery Tour

The Paradise Discovery Tour follows the lake edge, crossing over two major rivers. Lunch is served in a spectacular setting. Your day tour to the Paradise Valley includes exclusive access on 4WD trails over Private Property (15000 acre sheep & beef farm). Front row panoramic views overlooking the Dart River Valley and LOTR movie locations, picnic lunch followed by exhilarating Dart River Jet boat ride. Then we explore more of the Paradise Valley, Diamond Lake and Mt Earnslaw Station.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Pick-up at 9am from accommodation in Queenstown. Phone: 03 442 2299. Check-in: Please be ready for departure 5 minutes prior to pick-up time at your hotel reception. Length of tour: allow 7.5 hours. What to bring: Camera, waterproof rain jacket, required medication, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, warm top, walking shoes, water bottle. What is provided: Transfers ex Queenstown, Qualified Driver-Guide, Access to private land, Lunch & refreshments included. Notes: All trips subject to weather and farming practices. We always choose the safest route on the day which may differ from the advertised product. Please check with us should you have weather concerns.

Milford Sound Scenic Flights

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.

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.

Real Journeys Walter Peak Farm Tour

Situated on picturesque Lake Wakatipu’s south-western shores, the farm is the perfect place to spend a relaxing few hours. The Farm Tour itself is a wonderful, interactive experience for the whole family, with something to keep everyone entertained and happy. The rural host will meet you after you disembark from the TSS Earnslaw and take you for a walking tour of the farmyard. The first stop is the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer, and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then stroll through the lakeside gardens to the charming Colonel’s Homestead for morning or afternoon tea. Afterwards the farmer will lead you over to the shearing shed where you can watch the farm dogs rounding up sheep from the hill paddocks, and see the farmer shear a sheep. You will then board the TSS Earnslaw for your cruise back to Queenstown.

Important Tour Details: Departs/ Finishes: Queenstown Wharf. Phone: 0800 65 65 01. Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure. Length of tour: allow 4 hours. How to get there: The Queenstown Wharf is located in central Queenstown. What to bring: Backpack or bag, camera, rain jacket, required medication, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, warm top. What is provided: Lake Wakatipu cruise, Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Farm Show, Afternoon Tea. Notes: Explore the steamer ship TSS Earnslaw.

The Sebel Quay West Auckland

The Sebel Quay West Auckland is conveniently positioned in the heart of Auckland CBD, providing splendid views of the City and Waitemata Harbor. The hotel’s accommodations feature every modern convenience, to satisfy the demands of experienced travelers. A multitude of vibrant cafes, restaurants, shops and the renowned Viaduct Harbor are situated in close proximity to the hotel.

Regent of Rotorua

Escape to The Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua’s designer boutique hotel offering stylish luxury accommodation, restaurant, wine and cocktail bar, all with a touch of glamour. An oasis of understated contemporary elegance amidst the exciting attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer. Step out of the hotel’s gorgeous guest room or suite and stroll down to the vibrant restaurant zone or lakefront area or simply stay in, relax and savor the luxury facilities. Each of the rooms and suites in the central city luxury boutique hotel is exquisitely designed featuring contemporary decor with a touch of glamour and all modern conveniences including free unlimited WI-FI throughout the hotel. An outdoor heated swimming pool, thermal mineral pool, mini gym and spa treatments make the Regent of Rotorua the ideal Rotorua escape.

Ruby Bay Vineyard Lodge & Cottage

Ruby Bay Vineyard Lodge and Cottage is located just off the breathtaking Ruby Coast Highway, 40 minutes drive from Nelson airport. The lodge and cottage accommodation enjoys stunning views over the vineyard and Tasman Bay beyond. A high level of personal attention for only 8 guests is experienced in a relaxing, intimate environment. Enjoy an insider’s perspective of Nelson’s vibrant wine region, whilst experiencing the very best in hospitality and gourmet produce. Note: the cottage is located on Foley Rd and not at the main vineyard building (just 200 metres away up the gravel road).

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.

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.

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.

10 days New Zealand Family Vacation

Recommended Travel Months - Green = good travel month

The 10 day New Zealand family vacation is designed for outdoor and nature travellers. Not only will you see the best holiday destinations NZ has to offer, but you'll also enjoy quality, purpose-build family accommodation. This itinerary is perfect for all ages and can be adjusted accordingly. Although this is a New Zealand family self-drive holiday, we can also arrange  local transfers if you wish.  

What family travellers can do and see in New Zealand:

• Experience an authentic taste of rural life on a New Zealand farm.
• Explore the underworld of limestone and glowworm caves at Waitomo. 
• Take an exhilarating zip line over a canopy of native rainforest.
• Be entertained by a Maori cultural concert in Rotorua  with Hangi dinner included.
• Go on a child-friendly guided kayaking in the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park.
• Fly over the Southern Alps glaciers and land on the snow field below Mt. Cook.

Learn more or book your New Zealand Family Vacation Package in 10 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 trip to New Zealand!

New Zealand trip for Family in 10 Days

Day 1 Auckland

Your transfer driver will meet your family at the arrival gate at Auckland Airport. After transfer and check-in to your hotel, go and explore the America's Cup village. Climb the Sky Tower for great views of the Auckland City. Take a boat trip to beautiful Waiheke Island or head across to Devonport. Visit the shops and cafes of Parnell Village.

Check in to The Sebel Quay West Auckland

Optional - Sky Tower

Optional - Kelly Tarlton's SEA LIFE Aquarium

Day 2 Rotorua

Travel through the Waikato region to the famous Waitomo caves (3 hours). See the stunning architectural forms of the stalactites. Your family will join a guided tour into the Ruakuri Cave. However if you prefer the more adventurous ‘Black Water Rafting’ or abseiling (4 or 7 hours), let us know to include it in your itinerary. In the afternoon arrive in Rotorua (2 hours).

Check in to Regent of Rotorua

Included - Ruakuri Cave Tour

Optional - Waitomo Black Labyrinth

Day 3 Rotorua

Rotorua is a region of bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs. Some of your family may enjoy being pampered in a luxurious spa. Rotorua offers a spiritual journey into Maori culture with village and performance experiences. Go on a fun and educational experience with Canopy Tours - soar by zip-line over the native forest. Also included is a brief overview of the exciting conservation being undertaken in this area.

Included - Rotorua Canopy Tours

Included - Mitai Maori Village

Optional - Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm Tours

Recommended - Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Recommended - Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Recommended - Polynesian Spa

Day 4 Abel Tasman National Park

Drop-off your rental car at the airport and take a domestic flight to Nelson. In this short time span, you'll cover a lot of ground and save yourself lots of driving. Collect another rental car at Nelson airport and continue into the Abel Tasman National Park. This beautiful area has many empty beaches, fine wines and great food. Your family will love it!

Day 5 Abel Tasman National Park

The beautiful Abel Tasman Coastal walk passes through golden beaches and coastal forests. Take a personalized day trip with an Eco boat tour to explore the local wildlife and beach. Another popular option is join a guided, family-friendly sea kayaking tour for a half or full day.

Check in to Ruby Bay Vineyard Lodge & Cottage

Included - Abel Tasman Golden Future Tour

Optional - R&R Kayaks

Optional - Abel Tasman Charters Taranui

Optional - Wheelie Fantastic Cycle Tours

Day 6 Punakaiki

Scenic drive from the Nelson-Tasman region via the Buller Gorge to the gorgeous West Coast of the South Island. Today you’ll be in the Punakaiki region. The Great Coast Road is one of the Top 10 Coastal Drives in the world. Stop at Charleston for some underground rafting. See the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki. Visit the seal colony at Cape Foulwind -  a big highlight for children.

Check in to Hydrangea Cottages

Included - Paparoa National Park

Day 7 Fox Glacier

Travel from Punakaiki to Fox. Along the way, you'll go pass beautiful native forests, beaches and lagoons. Explore the goldfield walkway at Ross and stop by the shores of Lake Ianthe. Visit the White Heron colony near Whataroa. Buy some New Zealand Pounamu (Jade) at Hokitika. Younger children will enjoy a visit to Shantytown to relive the gold rush era.

Check in to Sunset Motel Fox Glacier

Recommended - Shantytown Heritage Park

Recommended - Hokitika

Included - White Heron Sanctuary Tour

Day 8 Queenstown

As part of your family package, take a helicopter flight up the Fox Glacier and land on the ice.. Thereafter travel south over Haast Pass and Wanaka into the Otago region. Queenstown is New Zealand's ‘Adventure Capital and has breath-taking scenery plus adrenaline-rush activities. This is such great place for family fun and adventure.

Check in to Garden Court Suites

Included - The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier

Optional - Flying Fox Helihike

Day 9 Queenstown

Explore the Queenstown region or take a scenic flight between Queenstown and Milford Sound - this has to be the ultimate way to absorb the drama and vastness of New Zealand’s alpine scenery. We recommend that you join the Dart River Safari based at Glenorchy village - one of the most scenic spots in the world!

Included - Dart River Safaris

Optional - Paradise Discovery Tour

Optional - Milford Sound Scenic Flights

Optional - Skyline Queenstown

Optional - Real Journeys Walter Peak Farm Tour

Day 10 Queenstown

Depending on your overall travel arrangements you might still have time to explore Queenstown before taking a domestic flight to Auckland or an international flight to Australia.

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!

Audrey Mothupi – Family travellers

Michael truly is the best ! Planned an amazing 20 day trip to Australia and New Zealand and we are just at the tail end heading home soon. Everything was just as he described ! A truly seamless perfect family holiday, tailored to our needs - thanks to Michael ! Don’t hesitate ... just contact Michael and then look forward to the best holiday ever!

David Lofthouse & Family

I was really happy with the service Michael offered. He came up with some great places to stay and a good itinerary. It was really well presented digitally also. Nothing was too much trouble and Michael was super responsive if I needed to make changes, which ALWAYS happens on a longer trip. Everything he had planned went smoothly.... use him, it’s worth it!

Planning Step 2 – Personalise Your Holiday

10 Days - Standard

per person (with family of 4),

( Not including intern. flights )

3 Star Lodging Quad Share

Partly breakfast included

Domestic flight

Sedan Rental Car

Tours with 10-25 Person

Coach Airport Transfer

10 Days - Superior

4 Star Lodging Quad Share

All Breakfast Included

Intermediate SUV Car

Tours with 6-10 Person

Taxi Airport Transfer

10 Days - Premium

5 Star Lodging Quad Share

Meal plan included

Large SUV / 4WD Car

Private Tours 2-4 Person

Exclusive Airport Transfer

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The ultimate guide to Auckland New Zealand

September 11, 2024

Vibrant, diverse and innovative, Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Use this ultimate guide to the best things to do in Auckland to plan your perfect stay in New Zealand.

From cultural attractions that leave a lasting impression to outdoor activities that wow, expect to leave with a newfound appreciation for Aotearoa New Zealand’s most populous city. 

With daily flights from Melbourne to Auckland that only take around 3.5 hours, Auckland is a great destination for Victorians, whether travelling for a quick city break or as part of a longer holiday. 

RACV Members have access to exclusive benefits on everything from tours , cruises , and fun-filled attractions and experiences in Auckland and across New Zealand. More: The best places and things to do in New Zealand

Your guide to Auckland's best places to visit

Auckland’s vibrant neighbourhoods.

Auckland feels more like a collection of diverse neighbourhoods than a built-up city, leaving ample choice for exploration. The city is also located on New Zealand's narrowest neck of land. If you're keen, there's the 16km Coast to Coast walk between the Waitematā and Manukau harbours, which takes you through suburbs, parks and up extinct volcanos for superb views of the city. You'll need the app, otherwise you might get lost.

For gorgeous boutiques, trendy cafés, and lively bars, Ponsonby - close to the city centre - delivers. If you prefer a more sophisticated vibe, you’ll love exploring Parnell’s main strip of shops and eateries. For a darling café culture at a seaside destination, Takapuna and Devonport on the North Shore will appeal. The latter has spectacular Auckland skyline views, too. For nature lovers, stop in Titirangi before exploring West Auckland.

While the distinct personalities and attractions of many Auckland suburbs appeal, most visitors base themselves in the CBD, near the scenic waterfront area. Staying central gives you easy train and bus access to most of the sprawling city. Plus, trendy Britomart - where exceptional culinary fare is the norm, not the exception – is right on your doorstep.

If you’re looking to enjoy a self-drive adventure, parking can be both challenging to find (and costly) in the city centre. Choose a hotel with parking included or stay in a surrounding neighbourhood.

Britomart is a trendy place for foodies. Image: Tourism NZ

Best cultural activities and things to do in Auckland

Uncovering New Zealand’s rich history is an ideal way to start your stay in the City of Sails. The Auckland War Memorial Museum allows a deep dive into Aotearoa's natural and military history and Māori heritage. Cultural performances are on twice daily. The museum is in the lush 75ha Auckland Domain, formed around the cone of an extinct volcano. Pack a picnic and include a visit to the historic Wintergarden.

In the heart of the city, the Auckland Arts Gallery (Toi o Tāmaki) connects you to New Zealand’s artistic heritage. It’s the country’s largest gallery, housing a 15,000-piece collection of national and international works.

For theatre lovers, the Civic Theatre is a beautifully restored 1920s building. Performances across the year include opera, musicals, comedy, and ballet. 

A lesser-visited gem, the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s transport history and technological advancements via interactive displays. MOTAT is close to the award-winning Auckland Zoo and picturesque Western Springs Park. Combine all three for a fun-filled family day out.

The Auckland Arts Gallery is well worth a visit. Image: Tourism NZ

Best nature activities in Auckland

With volcanic islands, lush national parks, and both east and west coast beaches within easy reach, nature enthusiasts have much to rave about during their Auckland stay. 

For an enriching day out, head 40 minutes to the Waitakere Ranges and West Coast beaches . Pristine rainforests, gushing waterfalls, and a coastline renowned for its wild surf, the Waitakere Ranges immerse you in Auckland’s best natural wonders. 

Choose to take one of the park’s well-organised trails like the Mercer Bay Loop trail, Anawhata and Whites Beach Loop or the Kitekite Track, which leads to a stunning multi-tiered waterfall.

After a hike, visit one of the west coast’s wild beaches, where long stretches of black volcanic sand and the exhilarating thrashing waves (always swim between the flags here) feel far removed from central Auckland. Piha Beach is the most famous, however, Karekare and Bethells are as appealing. Bethells has vast black-sand dunes nearby.

A short ferry ride from Auckland’s waterfront, Rangitoto Island is a dormant volcano offering panoramic views over Auckland city and the Hauraki Gulf. Alternatively, Tiritiri Matangi Island is an ideal spot for those interested in wildlife conservation. Take a guided tour to learn about the island’s rare and endangered bird species. 

For a spot of nature while in the city, explore 64ha of beautiful gardens and native forest at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa.

Piha Beach has black volcanic sand. Image: Tourism NZ

Auckland’s best food & wine experiences

Dining in Auckland can be as sophisticated or relaxed as you choose. The Viaduct Harbour and Britomart offer top-notch dining experiences, including Oyster & Chop, Soul Bar & Bistro, and Parasol & Swing. For a fabulous caffeine kickstart, Britomart’s Shaky Isles hits the spot. 

For exceptional meals with a view, book a table at Peter Gordon’s Sugar Club, on the 53rd floor of the iconic Sky Tower. For casual CBD eats, Mexico, Satya, and the award-winning Albert Street Food Court will make your tastebuds sing.

Ponsonby is famous for its eateries, with contemporary flavours and innovative menus the norm. Wander Ponsonby Road to find a restaurant that suits your vibe or choose from the tasty vendors at trendy Ponsonby Central. You’ll want to book ahead for Ponsonby favourites like Sidart, Thirty-One, and Prego, an Italian institution in Ponsonby for more than 30 years.

Hobbiton makes for a great day trip from Auckland. Image: Sara Orme

Best day trips from Auckland

Auckland’s prime location on the North Island means there is much to discover with a picturesque drive that's one to two hours' drive from the city centre.

An hour north of Auckland, the sleepy village of Matakana charms with its Saturday farmers’ market, artisanal food producers, and boutique wineries. The sculptures, six art galleries, restaurant, and vineyard across Sculptureum are highly recommended. 

If you’re a Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan, you’ll love a day trip to Matamata to visit Hobbiton . It’s enthralling to wander the Shire, see the Hobbit Holes, and snap a photo in front of Bilbo’s house.

Waiheke Island is worthy of its hype as an island paradise. Only 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, Waiheke feels distinctly more tropical (in summer) and laidback than its big city neighbour across the Hauraki Gulf. Known as the ‘Island of Wine’, the 30 boutique vineyards across Waiheke appeal to many day trippers. Stop by the well-known Mudbrick and Stonyridge Vineyards, or for high tea with a twist visit Batch Winery.

Other Waiheke Island activities include hiking, watersports, ziplining , and relaxing on the gorgeous beaches. Waiheke Island is also an idyllic spot for wellness experiences .

Looking for travel insurance for New Zealand?

The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the  Product Disclosure Statement  and  Target Market Determinations . For copies, visit racv.com.au. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS.

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New Zealand Family Itinerary: 3 Weeks / 21 Days 👪 [2024]

Support nz pocket guide and get our huge ebook collection to access our tips on the go, 21-day family itinerary for new zealand.

Three weeks is just enough time to experience both islands of New Zealand . Exploring the country by moving from destination to destination is the right way to make the most of this diverse land but moving too much can be exhausting if you have younger ones in tow. That’s why we’ve put together this New Zealand family itinerary for three weeks (21 days) which includes stays at almost all destinations for a couple of nights. What’s more, the 21-day family itinerary hits exciting North and South Island destinations, while including accommodation and activity recommendations for all ages. Not to mention, we show you how to plan this itinerary the EASY way with First Light Travel .

Start planning your 21-day family vacation in New Zealand with the itinerary below.

New Zealand Family Itinerary for 3 Weeks (21 Days): Overview

• Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Auckland Central
• Day 2 – Auckland to Waitomo
• Day 3 – Waitomo to Rotorua

Day 4 – Explore Rotorua

• Day 5 – Rotorua to Ohakune
• Day 6 – Explore Ohakune
• Day 7 – Ohakune to Wellington
• Day 8 – Explore Wellington
• Day 9 – Wellington to Kaikoura
• Day 10 – Explore Kaikoura
• Day 11 – Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs
• Day 12 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch
• Day 13 – Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
• Day 14 – Lake Tekapo to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
• Day 15 – Explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
• Day 16 – Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown
• Day 17 – Explore Queenstown
• Day 18 – Explore Queenstown
• Day 19 – Queenstown to Te Anau
• Day 20 – Day Trip to Milford Sound
• Day 21  – Te Anau to Queenstown Airport.

How to Get Around New Zealand in Three Weeks with Kids

New Zealand is best experienced as a family road trip – i.e. moving around the country. With that in mind, renting a car or campervan allows you to have full flexibility and comfort compared to using public transport. However, parents who are on a tight budget might want to consider the national bus service, while those who want fewer things to organise might prefer an escorted bus tour. 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 21-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 – of which 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 all of the road trip stops mentioned in this itinerary. Find out more about the passes available in What’s the Difference Between InterCity Bus Passes?

Escorted Bus Tours

Let a professional guide drive your tribe around New Zealand on a fully guided experience, often including accommodation and some meals. AAT Kings offers a 21-day tour of New Zealand for families with children aged 5 years and above. However, escorted bus tours have their own set itineraries and will not follow the below itinerary. Nevertheless, check out  The Best 20+ Days Tours of New Zealand if you’re tempted.

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 .

If you’re new to long road trips with the kids, be sure to check out the  10 Ways to Relax on a Road Trip to help make the trip run smoothly.

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Auckland Central

Travel time: 40 minutes

Welcome to New Zealand! For your first day in the country, we recommend taking it easy in Auckland Central , which is just a short drive away. Pick up your car rental , if it’s at the airport, or use one of the airport shuttles to get into the city.

Depending on what time your flight arrives and how eager the family is to start exploring there are a few things you can be doing in Auckland on your first day. Easy and short activities include going up the Sky Tower (more info on Viator and  Klook )   and visiting the Auckland Museum (on Viator and Klook ) . If you have most of the day free, we recommend a ferry trip to one of Auckland’s outer islands, whether it’s the volcanic island of Rangitoto or the bird sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi .

More tour and activity ideas are listed below so you can curate your ideal family day out in Auckland.

Family Activities in Auckland

• Wise up about the world of technology at the kid-friendly MOTAT museum
• Learn about the Kiwi farming lifestyle at Sheepworld in Warkworth
• See the wild and wonderful birds of New Zealand on Tiritiri Matangi
• Watch a Maori cultural performance at the Auckland Museum (on Viator  and Klook )
• Take a family road trip to one of Auckland’s regional parks .

Find out more about each experience in our 10 Things to Do in Auckland with Kids .

Family Accommodation in Auckland

• SkyCity Hotel Auckland
• Nesuto St Martins Apartment Hotel
• ibis Budget Auckland Airport
• VR Auckland City
• Kiwi International Hotel

Find out more about each accommodation in our 10 Best Family Accommodations in Auckland .

Day 2 – Auckland to Waitomo

Travel time: 2 hrs 20 mins

Travellers of all ages can’t help but be in awe of Waitomo ‘s glowworm caves, which is your final destination today. Set off from Auckland in the morning to give you enough time to do a cave tour once you arrive. 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”.

In Waitomo, 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 through Waitomo’s limestone and glowworm caves at 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 other native wildlife 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

For more information on our top picks, take a look at the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Waitomo .

Day 3 – Waitomo to Rotorua

Travel time: 1 hr 55 mins

Start off your morning with any of the activities you might have missed in Waitomo. Then, the road to Rotorua is just under two hours. 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 your 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. 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 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 20 Things to Do in Rotorua with Kids .

Day 5 – Rotorua to Ohakune

Travel time: 2 hrs 40 mins

Leave Rotorua in the morning to allow enough time to enjoy a pitstop-filled road trip to Ohakune . As you leave Rotorua, treat the kids to exploring a geothermal park. You have Wai-O-Tapu , Waimangu Volcanic Valley (on  Viator and  Klook )  and Orakei Korako  to choose from.

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

For some free stops along the way, take a quick detour towards 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.

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 6 – Explore Ohakune

Today can be as adventurous or as relaxed as you like. Short walks like the Mangawhero Forest Walk and letting the kids loose at the Ohakune Carrot playground are easy ways to relax. For something more epic, do a jet boat tour down the Whanganui River to the Bridge to Nowhere or head up Mt Ruapehu for some family skiing, if it’s winter .

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 .

Day 7 – Ohakune to Wellington

Travel time: 3 hrs 45 mins

Once the tribe is ready to go, it’s time to hit the road to Wellington with 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 makes a nice coffee stop.

Before you reach Hunterville, we recommend taking the 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 put your feet up at one of the recommended accommodations.

Family Accommodation in Wellington

• Rydges Wellington
• CityLife Wellington
• Copthorne Hotel
• Quest on Johnston
• Apollo Lodge Motel 

Find out more about each accommodation in the 15 Best Family Accommodations in Wellington .

Day 8 – Explore Wellington

You have the whole day to explore the capital of New Zealand! 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 . This affordable attraction gives you access to a predator-free reserve where New Zealand’s weird and wonderful birds thrive. This fun educational sanctuary is ideal for all ages. But if any of our suggestions so far aren’t your cup of tea, we have some other suggestions:

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 .

Day 9 – Wellington to Kaikoura

Travel time: 3 hours ferry, 2 hours drive

It’s time to leave the North Island behind and take an exciting journey 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 in Picton on the South Island, hit the road to 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 tipple.

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.

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 10 – Explore Kaikoura

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.

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 !

Day 11 – Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs

Travel time: 2 hrs 30 mins

Today, you hit the road to the alpine resort town of Hanmer Springs . On your way into the town, stop by the historic Wairau River bridge to treat the family to a family-friendly jet boat  or white water rafting experience (more info on Viator or Klook ) .

If adrenaline isn’t your family’s thing, head straight to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools to indulge in one of the largest hot pool complexes in the country. What’s more, it has an awesome waterpark!

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

See the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Hanmer Springs for more details on our top recommendations.

Day 12 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch

Travel time: 1 hr 40 mins

Have one last soak in the pools before making your way to Christchurch where a stop on the road could include the jet boat, quad bike, white water raft, bungy jump and paintball experiences of Hanmer Springs Attractions – check them out on Viator or Klook . You can also pop by one of the beaches, like Leithfield Beach , Woodend Beach , Spencer Beach or Waimairi Beach . Or swap the beach for a more polar landscape by taking a detour to the International Antarctic Centre .

Once you have arrived in the city of Christchurch and checked in at your accommodation, there’s plenty of easy activities to enjoy if you have the time. 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 13 – Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Travel time: 2 hrs 45 mins

It’s time to continue your way down the South Island, stopping by a few fun towns along the way. First, check out 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 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 .

A pie from the Fairlie Bakery is mandatory before you finally arrive in Lake Tekapo where you can soak in the scenes 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 14 – Lake Tekapo to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Travel time: 1 hrs 10 mins

It’s a relatively short yet really scenic drive to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park as you follow the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki to a tiny village in the shadows 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 ) . Whatever you don’t have time for today you can always do tomorrow.

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 15 – Explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

You don’t have to leave the dramatic scenery of New Zealand’s highest mountains and longest glacier just yet, as you have the whole day to 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.

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 (more info 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 .

Day 16 – 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 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 17 – Explore Queenstown

Because there’s so much to do in Queenstown , we’ve given you two full days to tick the items 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 .

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 !

Day 18 – Explore Queenstown

If we hadn’t given you enough things to do in Queenstown yet, have you taken the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak farm? Watch sheepdogs working the sheep, see sheep shearing demonstrations and learn how wool is spun in this family-friendly experience. Find out more about Walter Peak on Viator , Klook and KKday .

If your family wants a taste of Queenstown adrenaline, try the family-friendly Kawarau Bridge Zipline and watch mum or dad do the Kawarau Bungy?!

We also recommend a day trip to Arrowtown where you can pan for gold, indulge in the many candy and ice cream shops, and more. Check out the 10 Amazing Things to Do in Arrowtown for ideas.

For more information on all of the activities mentioned and more, head to the 20 Things to Do in Queenstown with Kids .

Day 19 – Queenstown to Te Anau

Travel time: 2 hours

Today you make your way to Te Anau , the gateway to Milford Sound and the Fiordland National Park. Start with a picturesque drive on the lakeside of Lake Wakatipu, stopping at the lookouts along the way. You can get refreshments in Kingston and Lowther before continuing to Te Anau.

In Te Anau, short but excellent activities include visiting the free-entry Te Anau Bird Sanctuary where they have New Zealand birds to meet while they are in rehabilitation. There’s also the cheap Trout Observatory to see fish and crayfish in their element.

If the Waitomo Caves were a highlight of your trip earlier in this itinerary, then you have another chance to get your glowworm on at the Te Anau Glowworm Caves . The boat trip across Lake Te Anau includes a guided cave tour among glowworms and underground waterfalls. Check it out on Viator or Klook .

Family Activities in Te Anau

• Delve into the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (more info on Viator or Klook )
• Watch the birds at the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
• Check out the fish at the Trout Observatory
• Let the kids loose at the Lions Playground
• Visit Lake Manapouri and play on Frasers Beach .

For more ideas, check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Te Anau .

Family Accommodation in Te Anau

• Kepler Oaks Chalet
• Anchorage Motel Apartments
• Lakefront Lodge
• Bella Vista Motel Te Anau

Check out the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Te Anau for more recommendations.

Day 20 – Day Trip to Milford Sound

Travel time: 3 hours

While most travellers rush from Queenstown to Milford Sound and back in one day, we find that the best way to experience it as a family is to visit the famous fiord from Te Anau so you can take your time. That way, there’s no stress visiting the ton of short walks and stunning natural attractions on the way to Milford Sound.

Recommended short walks on the road to Milford Sound include the Lake Mistletoe Track , Mirror Lakes Walk , Lake Marian Falls Track , the Lake Gunn Nature Walk and The Chasm . Find out more about these walks in the 10 Things to Do in Milford Sound with Kids .

So how can you experience Milford Sound once you get there? One option is a scenic cruise of the famous fiord where the boat dips under waterfalls, sails by seal colonies, and takes in the breathtaking landscape carved by glaciers. Compare all of your options in the 6 Best Cruises in Milford Sound .

Another cool way to take in the glorious views of Milford Sound is via a helicopter tour.  Milford Sound Helicopters  departs from Milford Sound Airport, offering families several flight options. Flights are suitable for all ages and infant seats are available.

Family Activities in Milford Sound

• Look out for wildlife and see spectacular waterfalls on a Milford Sound cruise
• Stop by the Mirror Lakes
• Enjoy the forest and lake scenery of the Lake Gunn Nature Walk
• Check out the underwater observatory with Southern Discoveries (more info on Viator , Klook or KKday )
• See spectacular waterfalls on the Lake Marian Falls Track .

For more details on each activity and others, check out the 10 Things to Do in Milford Sound with Kids .

Day 21 – Te Anau to Queenstown Airport

After three weeks in New Zealand, it’s time to wrap this adventure up with any of the activities you might have missed in Te Anau 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 three-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 customisable 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 3 Weeks / 21 Days

That’s it for our New Zealand family itinerary for 21 days. If that wasn’t the itinerary you were looking for, check out these alternative 21-day itineraries:

• New Zealand in 3 Weeks : Road Trip Itinerary
• New Zealand Budget Itinerary: 3 Weeks / 21 Days
• New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: 3 Weeks / 21 Days
• New Zealand Foodie Itinerary: 3 Weeks / 21 Days
• 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.

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