It’s school holidays now and that means it’s the perfect time to make some amazing memories with the family. North Island, South Island, wherever you may be, this country is beautiful and it’s just waiting to be explored. So here are 9 of the best family-friendly activities in NZ.
Insider tip: Due to COVID-19, some businesses are operating shorter hours or require visitors to book ahead. Make sure you check your activity’s website before you visit!
1. Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium
Auckland
Take the kids to see the creatures of the big blue at Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium. Founded by deep-sea adventurer Kelly Tarlton, it’s home to sharks, penguins, turtles, stingrays and more 🐢
Stay nearby: Auckland Rose Park Hotel.
2. Zealandia
Wellington
Zealandia is a 500-acre protected wildlife ecosanctuary that was created to restore a little part of Wellington to its natural state. Native species have returned and thrived, thanks to a fence keeping out introduced species. There’s rare wildlife and incredible forestry to explore. It’s like another world 🥝
Stay nearby: Grand Mecure Wellington.
3. Velocity Valley
Rotorua
Have a blast at this action-packed valley just outside of Rotorua 🚀 Bungee jump, zoom around at 100km/h in a jet boat, go on a MASSIVE swing with up to three of your mates, or have a go at wild BMX tricks over a giant airbag, all at Velocity Valley. It’s a day to remember!
Stay nearby: Holiday Inn Rotorua.
4. Hot Water Beach
Coromandel
On the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, underneath the sand of an unassuming beach, you’ll find bubbling hot water, just waiting for you to bathe in it. Visit at low tide and dig your own hot tub (luxe!), then spend the night at one of the great local stays.
Stay nearby: Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park.
5. International Antarctic Centre
Christchurch
Experience Antarctica in Christchurch at the International Antarctic Centre. Find out what an ice storm feels like, ride an all-terrain vehicle or let the immersive cinema experience take you away. There’s also the chance to meet huskies and penguins 🐕🐧
Stay nearby: Check out this awesome Christchurch apartment!
6. Adrenalin Forest
Wellington, Christchurch and Bay of Plenty
Swing among the treetops and fly from branch to branch at Adrenalin Forest. There are high-wire bridges to cross, flying foxes to ride and, don’t worry, you can pick how high or low you go. The sky’s the limit 🌳 Well, until the trees end, at least.
Heads up: Adrenalin Forest Auckland is currently closed, reopening in September 2020. Sorry, Auckland friends!
Stay nearby: Jucy Snooze Christchurch or Quest Wellington.
7. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
Hanmer Springs
Water slides, a manmade river to swim (or float) around, spas, pools, and a GIANT conical flume ride. There’s something for everyone at Hammer Springs. There are even hot pools, so you can still go for a dip in winter, even if it’s snowing!
Stay nearby: Tussock Peak Motor Lodge.
8. Skyline
Rotorua and Queenstown
Skyline has set up shop on both islands – which is great, because it’s a family-fun must-do. Depending on which park you visit, you can ride a gondola, or go luging (tobogganing), mountain biking, zip-lining or sky-swinging. We recommend letting the kids stay up a little past bedtime so they can go night luging. Go on… it’s a holiday!
Stay nearby: Millennium Hotel Rotorua or Heritage Queenstown.
9. Milford Sound
Fiordland
With kayaking, nature cruises, walking tracks, fishing, diving, sailing and an underwater observatory, Milford Sound makes you appreciate nature in all its glory. After a day of exploring with the kids, spend the night living the sailor’s life on board the Fiordland Discovery.
Stay nearby: Arran Motel.
PLAN YOUR FAMILY GETAWAY
