Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable family adventure in a truly captivating wonderland. New Zealand is not just a haven for adventure seekers, it’s a fantastic place to explore with kids. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, movie magic or enjoying the great outdoors, New Zealand packs in something for everyone, with plenty of activities for kids. Here, we explore the top 5 family-friendly experiences in New Zealand to help inspire your next family getaway.
Wētā Workshop Unleashed
Prepare to enter the captivating world of movie magic. In the heart of Wellington on the North Island, Wētā Workshop Unleashed lifts the curtain and takes you behind the scenes. This immersive and interactive experience allows you to get up close and personal with the props, costumes and creatures from iconic films like ‘The Lord of the Rings’, ‘King Kong’ and ‘Avatar’. Join a guided tour or creative workshop and learn about the art of special effects and the creative process behind these cinematic masterpieces.
Zealandia
Another one of the top kids activities in Wellington, Zealandia is a unique urban ecosanctuary where you can connect with New Zealand’s native wildlife amid lush forests. Follow walking trails that wind through stunning landscapes, where you can walk among rare birds and see prehistoric reptiles sunning themselves. Look for glow worms after dark on a guided night tour and explore the sanctuary’s state-of-the-art exhibition centre to learn more about Zealandia’s ground-breaking conservation efforts.
Where to stay
Situated in Lower Hutt CBD Quality Hotel The Angus is in a great location only moments from Wellington’s best sights and attractions. Enjoy a meal at the hotel’s popular Angus Conservatory restaurant.
Huka Honey Hive
In the picturesque town of Taupō in the heart of North Island, the Huka Honey Hive New Zealand is a delightful and educational stop for families. Here, you can discover the fascinating world of bees, taste 100% pure New Zealand and mānuka honey and mead, and learn about the importance of bees in pollination and food production. There are live beehive viewings and interactive exhibits to make learning about honey and its production one of the best kids activities in Taupō.
Where to stay
Take some time to explore the beautiful Taupō region, including the spectacular Huka Falls. Find a range of accommodation, including a historic church at Quality Suites Huka Falls. The family-run Quality Inn Acapulco is ideally located near Lake Taupō.
International Antarctic Centre
For a change of scenery, head to Christchurch on the South Island for a chilly adventure at the International Antarctic Centre. Kids will love the Antarctic storm experience, where they can feel the icy blast of a snowstorm, while learning about life on the frozen continent. The centre also offers opportunities to meet real-life penguins, explore interactive exhibits, and buckle up for a bumpy ride in the all-terrain amphibious Antarctic Hägglunds vehicle.
Orana Wildlife Park
Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand’s only open-range zoo and is a paradise for animal enthusiasts of all ages. With over 400 animals from around the world, including lions, giraffes, and New Zealand’s iconic kiwi birds, it’s a place where you can learn about conservation and see incredible wildlife up close. Don’t miss the hand-feeding opportunities and guided tours for a more immersive experience.
Where to stay
After you’ve had your fill of fun activities for kids in Christchurch, relax in one of the many spacious and comfortable accommodation options, from rooms within beautifully manicured rose gardens to comfortable apartments close to the heart of town.
