Best of NZ: 11 top picks for family resorts


Looking for the perfect stay for your next family getaway? Look no further than these gems, recommended by our very own hotel experts.

  1. Castaways Resort, Lake Puketi, Auckland
    Why we love it:
    With its awesome range of exciting activities (including kayaking, blo-karting, archery, and arrow tag), Castaways Resort is made for family adventures. The gorgeous chalet-style suites and luxurious day spa means a little indulgence for parents too.

  2. Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown, Queenstown
    Why we love it:
    A Queenstown getaway with its own playground, bikes, tennis court, and heated indoor swimming pool? Yes, please! Millbrook Resort’s spacious suites have enough room for everyone, and the full kitchens and dining areas make cooking family dinners a breeze. But we wouldn’t blame you if you went for room service ;).

  3. Heritage Hotel, Queenstown
    Why we love it:
    Two words: Marshmallow kebabs. Heritage Hotel gives them to kids to roast on the fire, and they get to eat for free at the hotel restaurant (one child per paying adult). But don’t worry, grown-ups – the heated indoor/outdoor pool, spa, and gym means there’s plenty for you to enjoy too.

  4. Distinction Te Anau Hotel And Villas, Fiordland National Park
    Why we love it:
    So we’re not just recommending Distinction Te Anau for its butt-kicking location next to Lake Te Anau Lake (although it does help). What we really love are the spacious 2-bedroom villas (with full lounge rooms), complimentary cribs and infant beds, and cute on-site chapel – just in case your family has anything it wants to make official ;).

  5. Hilton Lake Taupo, Taupo
    Why we love it:
    For family-friendly luxury just five minutes from the Taupo Hot Springs, you can’t go past Hilton Lake Taupo. The kids’ menu, DVD library, Play Stations, and games will keep the little ones happy, while you’ll love the quiet location, gorgeous outdoor pool (with kids’ facilities) and designer toiletries. Ah, bliss!

  6. Chateau Marlborough, Blenheim
    Why we love it:
    No question, the best part of a family holiday is spending quality time with your kids. You get to know them as people, and get a glimpse of the adults they’ll one day (all-too-soon) become. But the second best part is getting away from them for a night while you and your partner have some ‘us’ time. And the Chateau Marlborough’s delish restaurant and handy on-site babysitting and childcare make it perfect for doing just that.

  7. Kaiteriteri Reserve Apartments, Kaiteriteri, Tasman
    Why we love it:
    Light and breezy apartments right on the beach – need we say more? Probably not, but we’ll mention the awesome views, complimentary cribs, and big, stylish kitchens just in case.

  8. Luxury Seaside Apartments, Greymouth
    Why we love it:
    With on-site childcare, complimentary cribs, and cosy cabin-style apartments, Luxury Seaside Apartments is already a winner in our book. But its sweet playground (complete with a HUGE jumping pillow), video arcade, and fun bikes make it seriously awesome.

  9. Wairakei Resort Taupo, Taupo
    Why we love it:
    Big, comfy rooms that feel just like home – sign us up! Wairakei Resort’s quiet location, yummy kids’ menu, handy babysitting service, DVD library, and board games make it perfect for chilled-out family holidays.

  10. Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch, Christchurch
    Why we love it:
    Heads up – Peppers Clearwater’s apartments, villas, and suites are so gorgeous your family will never want to go home. And with its on-site golf course, awesome restaurant, and two all-weather tennis courts, you’ll probably feel the same. Make sure you try fly-fishing with Pepper’s local guide – it’s a must!

  11. Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake Tekapo
    Why we love it:
    Who could say no to a luxury family stay just strolling distance from Lake Tekapo? Definitely not us, and probably not you after you’ve seen some pics of Peppers Bluewater Resort. Full kitchens, a kids menu, on-site babysitting, DVDs, board games – everything you need is right here.

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