From golden sandy beaches to dormant volcanoes, New Zealand sure is on many traveler’s lists, it’s one of the most stunning destinations that offer diverse landscapes and activities for any age and energy level. So, if you’re planning a vacation to New Zealand with kids, then congratulations! This country is a natural playground full of adventures.

New Zealand isn’t just a paradise for backpackers and solo adventurers. This country offers endless possibilities for families with children of all ages. From fairytale landscapes to exciting activities, here we tell you everything you can do and why renting a campervan hire in Wellington may be the best decision for your family trip.

Why is New Zealand Perfect for Traveling with Kids?

New Zealand is not only one of the safest countries in the world but also, it’s incredible easy to travel, it offers endless possibilities to entertain the little ones.

With its excellent tourism infrastructure, low crime rates, and friendly people, as well as clean public restrooms, several rest areas along many routes and kid-friendly restaurants, traveling here with children is a piece of cake.

The Best Activities to Do with Kids

From glaciers that look like toys, black sand beaches where they can run freely, and forests that look like something out of a fairy tale, here are the best activities and places to visit with kids in New Zealand:

1. Explore Tongariro National Park

No matter where you are in the country, a place you must visit is the Tongariro National Park, and I highly recommend the Taranaki Falls Trail. This one is ideal for kids since it’s just a 2-hour hike with spectacular waterfalls as your reward.

If you’re traveling around the North Island, you should consider renting a campervan for more flexibility with your kids’ schedules. This will make visiting national parks and other attraction a lot easier.

2. Explore Hobbiton in Matamata

Have you ever watched the Lord of The Rings movies? If yes, then you must have noticed the cute villages where the Hobbits live! That’s Hobbiton in Matamata, a recreation of the Hobbit village that will make your kids think they’ve stepped into their favorite movie.

You can go by yourself, but a good option is a tour since guided tours include apple juice at the Green Dragon Inn (alcohol-free for kids!).

3. Dolphin Watching in the Bay of Islands

New Zealand is one of the best places to see Dolphin, and not many people is aware of this. On the country coasts you have a really high chance of seeing a dolphin. Many people say that they are seen 95% of the time.

Try companies like Dolphin Seafaris that specialize in this kind of activity. Kids can even swim with them!

4. Te Papa Museum in Wellington

This interactive museum has exhibits specially designed for children, including a simulated earthquake, a giant squid and the Māori, kids will learn without even realizing it.

From here, you can pick up your campervan and begin the route south.

5. Glowworm Caves in Waitomo

Imagine your children’s faces when they see thousands of glowworms shining like stars in the caves. Pure magic! This is one of New Zealand’s must-visit attractions, the Glowworm Caves in Waitomo.

There are adapted boat rides, and short but safe walks in this experience as well as explanations for kids.

6. Piha Beach near Auckland

To the north of New Zealand you will find the seaside village of Piha and the beach by the same name, which is perfect for building unique sandcastles and taking your first family surf lesson.

The whole Piha area is incredible, there are a lot of outdoor activities too, trails to hike and places to explore.

7. Meet the Kiwis at Auckland Zoo

A mandatory stop for anyone visiting New Zealand is the Auckland Zoo, especially if you’re with kids.

Auckland Zoo is home to the only place where you can see kiwis (the birds, not the fruit) in a specially designed nocturnal habitat. It have special hours for young children, interactive exhibits and family picnic areas.

8. Have fun at Rainbow’s End in Auckland

How doesn’t love a good amusement park? There’s no kid that can resist to that, it’s the perfect place for a family fun. With more than 20 rides, from roller coasters to water zones, it’s perfect for a day of pure fun.

Also, many times you will find discounted family passes, separate areas for different ages and a ton of of rest areas.

9. Cruise Milford Sound

There’s no trip to this country complete without a visit to New Zealand’s fjords, it will leave your children speechless. Look for family cruises with special activities for children.

Make sure to pack and wear warm clothing (it gets cold even in summer), binoculars for dolphin watching, and a ton of snacks.

10. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

While hiking the this alpine crossing is not the most family friendly activity in the country, it certainly is something you need to try. Keep in mind that you don’t need to do the full route.

There are short, safe sections of the trail with spectacular volcano views too. Make your kids wear comfortable shoes, put them sunscreen and pack a lot of water.

Bonus: Swim at Hot Water Beach

No one can resist to a hot thermal bath, specially if it’s close to the beach but have you ever dig your own hot spring pool in the sand? Exactly! That’s amazing and only in New Zealand. Kids will love this unique experience!

Make sure you plan it well, it’s possible 2 hours before or after low tide. Also, bring paddles (rentals available nearby).

Why Renting a Campervan is Ideal for Families

New Zealand is well known as one of the best countries for road trips, also, renting a car or a campervan is the best way to travel and it comes with many benefits.

You will have a lot more freedom and flexibility, you can stop whenever the kids get hungry or need a break, without being tied to a schedule.

Not only that but you will be sleeping in a campervan, which means fewer hotels and more money for unique experiences like ziplining in Rotorua.

Conclusion

New Zealand is the ultimate family destination, where every day is a new adventure. Whether exploring national parks, experiencing Maori culture, or touring the country in a campervan, you’ll make memories your children will cherish forever.