Often considered to be one of the best and most spectacular of the thermal parks, it can get busy with tourist groups, especially if the weather is good. It is a big outlay for a whole family but Waiotapu is actually one of the cheaper thermal parks in Rotorua and if your kids…
One of the smaller lakes in Rotorua, people of all ages swim in it but be warned that outside of the summer months, it’s cold! Try your hand at trout fishing if that’s what your family are into or there’s a small playground and beach area at Boyes Beach. There is also…
There are lots of interactive exhibits at this museum, which helps to keep kids entertained and engaged. You can pick up an ‘I Spy’ activity sheet (free) if you intend to have a general explore of the museum or head to one of the specific kids’ areas like Planet Warriors…
Escape the city to this peaceful haven of over 20 hectares of trees, pasture, lake and birdlife right on the edge of the city. The trees were all planted by one couple who then gifted their land to the people of Hamilton. There’s an extensive network of paths throughout the…
Mount Kaukau is the highest point in Wellington City and can be seen, on a clear day, from all over the city with it’s television transmitter tower at the top. From the top on a clear day, you get views all over the Wellington region and out to the South Island.…
Surrounded by a pest proof fence, this is a great place to get into the bush and escape the noise of the city while trying to spot lots of native birds. Even with noisy kids, you should spot something! Walks of lots of different lengths are possible with various stopping points/distractions…
This is the biggest island you can see in Wellington Harbour. It was used as a quarantine for those with infectious diseases and later as a quarantine for animals (right up until 1995). The island allows you to do some lovely walks as well as visit the old quarantine buildings…
If it’s not raining, the waterfront is a popular place to walk, scoot or cycle along for the whole family. If you don’t have wheels, you can rent a ‘Crocodile Bike’ for a surprisingly fun family activity. While kids can be strapped in and take turns ringing the bell, they’ll need…
This is essentially a pub with a decent sized menu for both adults and kids (including a drink and activity pack for kids). The food is reasonably good and the service is consistently friendly. Families who go there like that there’s a play pen for younger kids and, if the…
This is a wildlife park with a few extras thrown in! In terms of animals you can expect to see natives like kiwi, kea and tuatara, or see a life-sized model of the extinct Moa. There are trout in the river with a viewing window so even small children should…
