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…
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…
Native New Zealand species are in abundance here due to the protection given to them by the world’s longest pest-proof fence. These include, native species of birds, bats, frogs and reptiles as well as tuatara and giant weta. There are well maintained walking tracks which you can enjoy by yourself or…
This is a series of bike tracks and areas to suit different ages and abilities of bike riders (balance bikes, trikes and scooters are all acceptable here as well as regular bikes). There is an awesome mini-road set up with traffic lights, stop and give way signs. There’s a fenced off…
The area around Cambridge is home to multiple producers, many of whom sell what they grow and make at this local Farmers’ Market every week. It’s a great place to pick up meat, dairy products, bread and other baked items, fruit and vegetables and a coffee. Especially good if you’re…
Lots on offer here for outdoor fun. There’s a good playground (several slides, swings, obstacle course including monkey bars), although it’s near the main road with no fencing so kids with a tendency to run off, will need to be carefully monitored. Miniature trains also run on Sundays, weather permitting, including a…
This park on the edge of the Waikato River, has a large water feature in the form of a summer pool, made up of 3 separate pools – very popular with kids of all ages. Note the warning sign near the pools though, advising that due to the natural location, kids…
Did you know that there’s a small cinema showing a range of the latest movies right in Taupo. This is an excellent option if the weather is bad and your kids are into watching movies!
This is New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction (apparently!) but don’t let that put you off taking your kids there for a look. To find out more about why the Huka Falls exist, check out the website link under contacts. This link also has info on the various walks available…
