New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich Maori culture, is a paradise for families seeking a memorable vacation. From lush green mountains to pristine beaches, the Land of the Long White Cloud offers an array of family-friendly activities and attractions. If you’re planning a New Zealand family holiday with your little ones, here’s a guide to some fantastic things to do in New Zealand with kids.
Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set
Embark on a magical journey to the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, where scenes from the iconic “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies were filmed. Step into the world of Middle-earth and wander through the hobbit holes, mills, and bridges of the Shire.
Your kids will love exploring the quirky homes and learning about how the movies were made. Kids and adults alike will be enchanted by the whimsical hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the charming Shire. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the movie-making process, making it a captivating experience for the whole family.
Get wet and wild in Rotorua
Rotorua is geothermal wonderland, with geysers, mud pools, and hot springs bubbling everywhere you look. Attractions like Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland offer family-friendly walking trails amidst vibrant geothermal features, providing an educational and visually stunning experience.
Explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, where bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and colorful hot springs create a surreal landscape. Kids will love taking a boat trip on Lake Rotorua, visiting the Te Puia geothermal area, or zorbing down a hill.
Go on a wildlife adventure
New Zealand is home to some of the most unique and fascinating wildlife in the world. Take a boat trip to see dolphins or whales, visit a wildlife sanctuary to see kiwi birds or tuatara, or go on a guided night walk to spot glowworms.
Take a mesmerizing boat ride through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the underground caverns. Kids will be captivated by the magical glow and the boat journey, making it a unique and awe-inspiring adventure.
Hit the slopes
New Zealand is a skier and snowboarder’s paradise, with world-class resorts in both the North and South Islands. If your kids are too young for the slopes, there are plenty of other winter activities to enjoy, such as snow tubing, tobogganing, and building snowmen.
Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown offers a plethora of family-friendly activities. From the famous Skyline Gondola ride to thrilling jet boat tours on Lake Wakatipu, there’s no shortage of excitement. During the winter months, families can hit the slopes for some fun-filled snow activities.
Relax on the beach
No trip to New Zealand would be complete with some time spent on the beach. With miles of golden coastline to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Head to the golden shores of Abel Tasman National Park for a relaxing family day at the beach. Take a scenic boat cruise, go kayaking, or embark on a family-friendly hike through the lush coastal trails. The crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches make it an ideal spot for a memorable family picnic.
Experience Maori cultural experiences
Immerse your family in New Zealand’s rich Maori culture with interactive experiences and performances. Attend a traditional Maori cultural show, where kids can witness powerful haka performances, learn about ancient customs, and even try their hand at traditional Maori games.
New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse activities make it an ideal destination for a family vacation. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting movie sets of Hobbiton, marveling at the glowworms in Waitomo, or enjoying the thrill of adventure in Queenstown, there are plenty of things to do in New Zealand with kids. With its welcoming atmosphere and abundance of family-friendly attractions, New Zealand promises to create cherished memories for you and your kids that will last a lifetime.
