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.
Whether children are fascinated by volcanoes and waterfalls, or museums and glow worms, New Zealand has plenty to offer that parents will enjoy as well.
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 inquire 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. On 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 Activities for 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. However, in New Zealand, many playgrounds come with stunning views. Standouts include Queenstown Gardens with its views of Lake Wakatipu and Lake Tekapo’s shoreline playground. Some larger playgrounds even feature water parks.
Nevertheless, even playgrounds without a view are impressive. Christchurch’s Margaret Mahy Playground, one of the largest in the country, boasts a 10m-high tower, in-ground trampolines, giant swings, and a scooter park. Oamaru’s steampunk playground is futuristic, while Whanganui’s Kowhai Park features nursery rhyme-themed play equipment.
Visit a Farm:
New Zealand has numerous working farms that welcome families. Young travelers will experience the joy of meeting animals up close and seeing the country’s remarkable farm dogs in action. In Queenstown, take the TSS Earnslaw steamboat across the lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Best Experiences for Kids
Wonder at Glow Worms:
New Zealand’s glow worms, arachnocampa luminosa, are exclusive to this region and Australia. While they reside outdoors across the country, the most popular viewing spot is the Waitomo Caves, famous for their impressive geological features.
Take a Cruise along the Mighty Milford Sound:
Fiordland National Park is a bucket list destination, especially for families. Enjoy a wildlife cruise along Milford Sound, where you might see Hector’s dolphins and fur seals, with spectacular waterfalls adding to the experience. Instead of making a long day trip from Queenstown, consider staying overnight in nearby Te Anau.
Explore Auckland’s SkyCity Complex:
The Sky Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere. Here, children can enjoy sweeping views of the city and interactive experiences, including glass panels on the floor. Moreover, the complex includes attractions such as Wētā Workshop Unleashed and the All Blacks Experience.
Dig Your Own Hot Water Pool:
As a geothermal wonderland, New Zealand features spots where thermal water flows just below the surface. At Hot Water Beach in the Coromandel, visitors can dig their own hot tubs. Lesser-visited hot water beaches can also be found in Kawhia and Moutohorā Island.
Meet Local Wildlife:
Many visitors dream of seeing a kiwi. To increase your chances, visit a hatchery or predator-free wildlife sanctuary such as the National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua. Alternatively, explore Kaikourā for marine life, including sperm whales and dolphins.
Planning Tips
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Public transport can be challenging, so hiring a car is advisable.
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The sun can be intense in New Zealand, so apply sunscreen regularly.
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Consider staying at Top 10 Holiday Parks, which offer affordable accommodations and child-friendly activities.
This article highlights the numerous family-friendly activities and attractions New Zealand offers, ensuring that both children and parents have an unforgettable experience.
