30 Things to Do in New Zealand for Families (North & South Island Adventures)

Planning a family trip to New Zealand is like stepping into a storybook — towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, steaming geothermal valleys, and beaches that stretch for miles. From the very top at Cape Reinga to the southern charm of Queenstown and beyond, there’s something here for every age group.

🎥 Watch our early morning family drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound — through misty Fiordland valleys, the Homer Tunnel, and the majestic fjord.

What makes New Zealand special for families is the mix of adventure and accessibility. You can raft down rivers or wander glowworm caves, then spend the afternoon relaxing in a thermal pool or exploring a world-class museum. The kids get just as much joy as the parents — whether it’s chasing waterfalls, riding a jet boat, or simply running barefoot on a black-sand beach.

Over the past months, we travelled as a family across both the North and South Islands, capturing our experiences with photos, videos, and stories to help other families plan their own adventures. This guide brings together our top 30 must-do family experiences in New Zealand — tried and tested with kids in tow.

So pack your walking shoes, bring a camera, and get ready for an unforgettable family journey through Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud.

📍 Cape Reinga (Northland)

Standing at Cape Reinga feels like reaching the very edge of New Zealand. This is the final land mass at the top of the North Island — and when you arrive, there’s a real sense of “we’ve made it to the end.”

For us, the trip was a 30-minute drive from the giant sand dunes. Honestly, we were already exhausted — especially the kids — and for a moment we thought about just heading back. But we knew Cape Reinga was the very tip of New Zealand’s north, and we didn’t want to miss it. In the end, making the effort was completely worth it.

The weather turned out perfect, and that made the whole experience even more special.

Highlights of Cape Reinga

• The Lighthouse Walk – From the car park (with plenty of spaces and public toilets available), it’s an easy walk down to the iconic lighthouse.
• Where Two Oceans Meet – One of the most magical sights here is watching the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide right before your eyes.
• Family-Friendly Access – With paved paths and clear signage, even little kids can manage the walk.

We filmed a few clips at the lighthouse, capturing the feeling of being at New Zealand’s northernmost tip. There’s something surreal about standing on that cliff, looking out over endless ocean in both directions.

🚗 What to Know Before You Go

• ✅ Free parking and public toilets available.
• ❌ No shops, no food outlets, no charging stations — bring your own water, snacks, and make sure your devices are charged before arriving.
• ✅ Easy walking track, suitable for families with kids.

📍 Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes (Northland)

We reached the Te Paki Sand Dunes around midday after a 3.5-hour drive from Russell in the Bay of Islands. The weather was perfect, but our first experience was less than ideal — the toilets on site were very basic, old pit-style facilities. My elder daughter was surprised (and not impressed!), and in the end the kids had to manage outdoors. Definitely not the highlight of the day, but sometimes that’s just part of travelling with kids.

Once we moved past that, the sight of the giant sand dunes took our breath away. These dunes are massive — like golden mountains rising from the landscape.

Our Family Experience

• Hot Sand Lesson – At first, we thought about going barefoot, but quickly realised the sand could heat up too much in the midday sun. We kept our slippers on, which made climbing easier and safer.

• Climbing the Dunes – Following tracks that others had left in the sand, we slowly made our way up. Our 4-year-old was scared at first, but after a quick walk she gained confidence and soon was enjoying the adventure.
• Flat Sand Plateau – Reaching the top felt like stepping onto another world — a wide, flat desert of sand as far as we could see.

• Sandboarding Fun – Then came the highlight: sliding down the dunes on a paddle board. The steep slopes looked intimidating at first, but after one ride we were hooked. We went back up and slid down again and again — it was pure family fun.

🚗 What to Know Before You Go

• ✅ Free parking on site.
• ❌ Toilets available but very basic (long-drop style, no running water). Bring hand sanitiser or wipes.
• ✅ Bring your own water and snacks — no food or shops nearby.
• ✅ Wear shoes/slippers — the sand gets hot in summer.
• ✅ Sandboards can be hired right at the car park. A very friendly local guy was renting boards when we visited — super easy and affordable.

📍 Ninety Mile Beach (Northland)

After visiting Cape Reinga, we made our way to Ninety Mile Beach, one of the must-do experiences in Northland. At first, it wasn’t easy — we missed the route because Google Maps still shows an older road that has since become private property. After a few circles and backtracking, we eventually found the correct route.

When we finally reached the beach, it was just the right time — evening, with the sun dipping low. Watching the sunset from Ninety Mile Beach was unforgettable: wide golden sands, endless horizon, and waves rolling in as the sky lit up in colours.

For those with a 4WD vehicle, the thrill of driving directly on the sand adds another layer of adventure. There aren’t many places in the world where you can cruise along the ocean edge, waves on one side and dunes on the other. It’s also a fantastic spot for photography — the backdrop is unbeatable.

Highlights of Ninety Mile Beach

• 🌅 Sunset Views – Wide open skies and glowing ocean, perfect for families to wind down after a day of exploring.

• 🚙 4WD Adventure – Drive right on the beach (only safe for 4WDs). It’s one of the most unique driving experiences in New Zealand.
• 📸 Photo Opportunities – Golden sand, dramatic waves, and a vast coastline make this a natural backdrop for memorable family photos.

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🚗 What to Know Before You Go

• ✅ Access is via a 3–4 km gravel road off the main highway.
• ❌ No toilets or food outlets — bring your own supplies.
• ✅ Safe and wide beach, but only suitable for 4WD vehicles if you plan to drive.
• ⚠️ Tide matters: check conditions before driving on the sand.

🏡 Stay in Russell & The Paihia Car Ferry (Bay of Islands)

During our Northland trip, we stayed at the TOP 10 Holiday Park in Russell — and it turned out to be one of the best choices for families. Russell is a small island town with stunning views across the bay to Paihia.

The highlight of staying here is the 10-minute car ferry that connects Russell and Paihia. It’s not a long journey at all — just a short hop across the water — but it feels special. You can stay inside your car, or get out and enjoy the fresh sea air and incredible views. Our kids loved hopping out of the car to watch the ocean and spot other boats on the bay.

The ferry runs every 10 minutes until 10pm, so you don’t need to worry about timing. It’s efficient, smooth, and part of the adventure.

Why Stay in Russell?

• 🏡 Family-Friendly Accommodation – The Russell TOP 10 Holiday Park has a relaxed island feel, with everything you need for a base.
• ⛴️ Car Ferry Fun – Kids will love the short boat ride; parents will appreciate the convenience.
• 🌊 Scenic Views – Looking back towards Paihia from Russell is picture-perfect.
• 🚗 Perfect Base for Day Trips – From Russell, you can easily plan day adventures to Cape Reinga, Te Paki Sand Dunes, and Ninety Mile Beach.

🚗 What to Know Before You Go

• ✅ Ferry crossing takes just 10 minutes each way.
• ✅ Runs every 10 minutes until 10pm.
• ✅ You can board with your car and drive straight off on the other side.
• ❌ Limited shops in Russell compared to Paihia — book your accommodation and plan meals ahead.
• 💡 Our tip: Book your Russell stay in advance, especially during school holidays, as it’s very popular with families.

🚗 Auckland → Russell road trip (Orewa Beach + Whangārei Falls)

The drive from Auckland to Russell takes about 3.5 hours, but for families it’s worth planning a couple of scenic stops along the way. We took two breaks that turned the journey into part of the adventure — giving the kids a chance to stretch, play, and explore.

Bonus Stop: Driving Across the Auckland Harbour Bridge

Before we even left the city, the drive across the Auckland Harbour Bridge set the tone for our Northland trip. The bridge is massive, with multiple lanes in each direction — it can feel a little overwhelming at first. The best advice: simply follow Google Maps and make sure you’re in the correct lane early (usually keeping right if you’re continuing north).

The kids loved looking out at the water and spotting boats in the harbour below as we crossed. For parents, it’s an easy, quick part of the journey, but one that feels like a milestone — you’re officially leaving Auckland behind and starting your adventure into Northland.

Stop 1: Orewa Beach

Our first stop was at Orewa Beach, a beautiful long stretch of sand just north of Auckland. It’s the perfect place for a break: the kids had time to play in the sand and splash in the water, while we relaxed and snapped some family photos. Toilets are available right by the beach, which makes it a stress-free pause on the road.

Stop 2: Whangārei Falls

Our second stop was at the stunning Whangārei Falls. The water here is clean and refreshing, and the view from the top of the hill is spectacular. The kids enjoyed playing by the river stream, and it gave all of us a refreshing break before driving on. Toilets are available here as well.

Why These Stops Work for Families

• 🏖️ Orewa Beach – Quick access, sandy play area, and safe facilities.
• 💦 Whangārei Falls – Natural beauty, short walks, and a safe stream for kids.
• 🚗 Break Up the Drive – A 3.5-hour journey can feel long, but with these stops it becomes a fun day trip in itself.

🚗 What to Know Before You Go

• ✅ Toilets available at both Orewa Beach and Whangārei Falls.
• ✅ Both stops are safe and family-friendly.
• 💡 Bring towels/change of clothes — kids will likely get wet at both spots!
• ⏱️ Total drive from Auckland to Russell: around 3.5 hours without stops.

“We wrapped up our Auckland to Far North adventure, and ideally you’ll want to set aside three days for this trip. Day 1 is the drive up with scenic breaks, Day 2 is for exploring the very top — Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach, and the sand dunes — and Day 3 is the return to Auckland at a comfortable pace. This makes the journey manageable with kids, giving enough time for rest and fun stops. You can do it in two days if you push, but three days is far more family-friendly.“

From here, our road trip continues south. The next leg takes us from Auckland to Wellington — a journey that’s just as rewarding but very different in character. Instead of the wild beaches and remote capes of the Far North, this stretch takes you through bustling cities, geothermal landscapes, lush farmland, and cultural heartlands. Along the way you’ll encounter Rotorua’s bubbling mud pools and Māori heritage, Lake Taupō’s vast waters, the volcanic plateau of Tongariro, and the rolling hills that eventually lead down into New Zealand’s capital.

This section is full of variety, and families can pace the trip anywhere from three to five days depending on how many stops you want to linger at.

Auckland with Kids – Our Experience

We based ourselves in Auckland’s CBD, just a short walk from the Sky Tower, which quickly became a highlight for the kids. We spent time up the tower taking in the sweeping views and snapping plenty of photos. For thrill-seekers, there’s the option to jump off the Sky Tower — but since we’re not fans of heights, we gave that a miss! Still, it’s worth mentioning for families who love a bit of adventure.

One of the nice things about staying in the CBD was that we could leave the car parked at the hotel and explore the city on foot. Wandering around central Auckland gave us a chance to enjoy the buzz of the city without worrying about parking or traffic.

Another favourite stop was SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium. The kids absolutely loved watching the penguins and exploring the underwater tunnels. We happened to be there at feeding time, which made the experience even more special. Plus, the aquarium’s location right on the waterfront gave us beautiful ocean views to enjoy as a family.

One of the highlights for the kids at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium was spotting colourful fish darting between coral displays. The vibrant tanks, with their mix of live sea creatures and carefully designed habitats, really capture children’s imagination. Our favourite moment was watching the clownfish — instantly recognisable as “Nemo” from the movies — weaving in and out of the coral. It’s a simple but magical experience that had the kids pressed up against the glass, pointing and laughing.

The aquarium does a great job of making each section immersive, and with the lighting and colourful coral backdrops, it feels like you’ve stepped right into the ocean.

Coromandel Experience

Hot Water Beach – A Must-Do

From Auckland, it’s about a three-hour drive to Hot Water Beach, and the journey itself is stunning — rolling farmland, winding coastal roads, and stretches where the ocean is right beside you. We booked a stay at the Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park, which was the perfect choice for families. After a short rest at the hotel, we set off on foot — it’s only about a 10-minute walk to the beach.

The key to enjoying Hot Water Beach is timing. You need to visit around low tide, and for us that was about 4pm. No booking is required — just check the tide times in advance, plan accordingly, and head down early to find the perfect spot before it gets too crowded.

We carried towels with us and joined the crowd of families already digging into the sand. Despite how busy it looked, we quickly found a spot and started creating our own natural hot pool. The moment you dig into the sand and hot water bubbles up is incredible — such a unique natural experience.

We spent about an hour soaking, playing, and laughing as the waves occasionally crashed over and destroyed our carefully built pools. The kids especially loved rebuilding each time the ocean knocked everything down. Eventually, one big wave swept through and ended the fun, but by then we were all ready to head back.

Walking back to our accommodation, we capped the evening with a family BBQ — the perfect way to finish an unforgettable Coromandel day.

Tip: You don’t need to bring a shovel with you — if you’re staying nearby, most hotels (including the TOP 10 Holiday Park) hire them out, making it super easy for families.

Cathedral Cove – Iconic Natural Beauty:

One of the most unforgettable experiences of our Coromandel trip was kayaking to Cathedral Cove. It’s about an hour’s paddle from the base, and although our arms were definitely feeling the stretch, the journey itself was magical. The water was calm, the coastline dramatic, and our guide kept the group motivated with encouragement and plenty of fun commentary. The guides were super friendly and gave us clear instructions, which made the whole adventure easy to follow even for beginners.

Arriving at Cathedral Cove by kayak feels special — you pull up to the beach with the towering limestone arch in front of you, a scene straight out of a postcard. After all the paddling, stepping onto the soft sand felt like a reward in itself. We had time to swim, explore, and take photos under the famous rock arch, which really shows off the scale of this natural wonder.

Our guide even set up a little beachside coffee service, brewing fresh cups right there on the sand. Sitting with a hot drink in hand, gazing out at the turquoise water, was an experience we’ll never forget. The kids loved playing in the water while we enjoyed a quiet moment, and we spent about 45 minutes relaxing, swimming, and soaking it all in.

Eventually, it was time to paddle back. The return trip took just as much effort, but the memory of Cathedral Cove — the archway, the beach, the coffee on the sand — made it more than worthwhile. It’s a family adventure we’ll always remember.

Exploring Cathedral Cove by Boat

After kayaking, we also joined a boat tour around Cathedral Cove — and it turned out to be another highlight of our Coromandel adventure. The ride lasted about an hour, and it was a perfect way to see the dramatic coastline from a completely different angle.

The water was crystal clear, and as we cruised along the cliffs, the guide explained the history and geology of the cove. We stopped at several points, including hidden sea caves carved out by the waves. Being inside those caves with the sound of the ocean echoing around us was both exciting and humbling. The kids loved peering over the edge of the boat to spot schools of fish swimming below.

At times the waves splashed against the side of the boat, adding to the fun and making the whole experience feel adventurous. With the rugged cliffs towering above and the endless blue stretching out to the horizon, it was one of those “must-do” activities that gives you a true appreciation of the Coromandel’s natural beauty.

Hamilton – A Stop Full of Surprises

After leaving Coromandel, we made the 2.5-hour drive back inland to Hamilton. The journey itself was comfortable, and by the time we reached the city, the kids were ready to stretch their legs. Our first stop was the Hamilton Gardens, which turned out to be one of the most family-friendly attractions of the trip.

The gardens are beautifully designed, with themed areas that feel like stepping into different worlds. The kids especially loved the Alice in Wonderland–style Mad Hatter’s Tea Party sculpture — it was fun watching them pose with the characters as if they were part of the story. Another highlight was the Indian Char Bagh Garden, with its colourful flower beds and elegant white architecture. The contrast between each garden theme kept things exciting and made exploring a real adventure for the whole family.

After our garden wander, we headed into the city for dinner and tried Pizza Club Hamilton. The food was excellent — hearty, well-priced, and exactly what we needed after a day of exploring. Definitely worth a stop if you’re passing through.

Hamilton surprised us with how much it offered in just a short visit. It’s more than just a stopover — it gave the kids a mix of play, imagination, and great food, while giving us adults a chance to relax and enjoy something unique.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves – A Magical Underground Experience

From Hamilton, it’s just over an hour’s drive to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, one of New Zealand’s most unique attractions. This is a must-do stop on the Auckland to Wellington journey, especially for families.

The tour begins with a walk through the cave system before you board a small boat. For around 20 minutes, you glide silently along an underground river, guided only by your boatman. The moment you look up and see thousands of glowworms lighting the cave ceiling like a starry night sky is simply magical. The silence makes it even more special — just the soft sound of water and the wonder of the glowing cave.

Our kids were wide-eyed the entire time, and it’s one of those experiences that stays with you long after the trip. It’s short, peaceful, and unlike anything else you’ll see in New Zealand.

Rotorua Rafting – A Thrill to Remember

From the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Rotorua, and one of the must-do activities here (for adults and older kids/teens) is white-water rafting. Rotorua is famous for having the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, and the experience is just as exciting as it sounds.

We joined a rafting trip that started off with lots of laughs and high energy as our guide led us down the river. The rapids kept everyone alert, but the real test came when we reached the big waterfall drop. Instead of going straight, our raft tipped backward on the descent — and suddenly we were thrown into chaos. For a few seconds we didn’t know what had happened, with water crashing around us and people panicking.

Thankfully, everyone was safe. The rescue team and other rafts were quick to help, pulling us out and flipping the raft back over. It turned into a moment we’ll never forget — both terrifying and unforgettable at the same time. Looking back at the photos, it’s clear this is an adventure we’ll be talking about for years.

If you’re visiting Rotorua and want an adrenaline rush, rafting is a must. Just remember — this one is not for small kids, but for teens and adults, it’s a bucket-list adventure.

Rotorua Redwoods Night Walk – A Magical Evening Among Giants

One of our most memorable evening experiences in Rotorua was visiting the Redwoods Treewalk. This unique attraction lets you walk high among towering Californian redwood trees on a series of suspension bridges. By day it’s impressive, but by night it transforms into something truly magical.

We went in the late evening, and the forest was beautifully lit with lanterns and glowing lights. Walking high up between the trees gave us a real sense of adventure, and the kids loved the feeling of being “up in the sky.” The suspended bridges sway just enough to be fun, but they feel completely safe. Parking and toilets are available on site, which makes it easy for families to visit.

This is definitely a must-do Rotorua experience — peaceful, enchanting, and perfect for both adults and children. It’s the kind of activity that mixes nature, light, and fun into something you’ll always remember.

Rotorua Mud Bath – Fun and Relaxation Combined

Another must-do in Rotorua is trying a mud bath. It’s not only fun but also a unique cultural and wellness experience. Covered head to toe in warm mineral-rich mud, we laughed, played, and let the kids enjoy smearing it around. The mud is said to be great for the skin, but for us, it was mostly about the novelty and the joy of doing something completely different as a family. It’s one of those experiences where you leave a little messy but with big smiles — a memory we’ll always treasure.

Huka Falls – A Must-See in Taupo

One of Taupo’s most famous natural attractions is Huka Falls, where the Waikato River narrows dramatically and surges through a rocky gorge before thundering down into a stunning blue pool. Standing at the lookout, the sight of the rushing water is breathtaking — you can feel the power and hear the roar long before you see it.

It’s also a great photo spot, with platforms that give you safe but close-up views of the falls. Our kids loved watching the water crash below and listening to the thunderous sound — it’s both exciting and calming at the same time. Parking and toilets are available nearby, making it a very family-friendly stop.

If you have time, you can also explore walking trails around the falls or take a jet boat ride for a thrilling experience on the water.

Taupo Geothermal Park – A Unique Boat & Walking Experience

One of the most memorable experiences in Taupo was visiting the geothermal park. To get there, we first crossed the river on a short 10-minute boat ride, which the kids loved — it already felt like an adventure before we even reached the park.

Once across, we followed the walking tracks for about an hour through steaming vents, bubbling pools, and mineral-covered ground. The landscape felt like another world, with steam rising from the earth and colourful deposits on the rocks. The sound of boiling water and the smell of minerals reminded us just how alive this land really is.

It’s a safe and easy walk for families, though younger kids might find some of the bubbling mud pools a little spooky at first. The combination of boat ride and geothermal wonders made it a unique family-friendly activity in Taupo, and definitely worth adding to the itinerary.

Tongariro National Park – Snowy Peaks and Scenic Views

Driving through Tongariro National Park was a highlight of our North Island road trip. The park is home to three volcanic mountains — Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro — all of which hold deep cultural significance to Māori and are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

We were lucky to see the mountains capped in snow, which made the scenery even more stunning. From the road, the views were breathtaking, with wide open landscapes leading up to the towering volcanic peaks. The kids were amazed to see snow on the mountains, and it gave us that real alpine feel without even leaving the North Island.

New Plymouth – Scenic Walks and Iconic Landmarks

ur next stop was New Plymouth, a coastal city that surprised us with its mix of natural beauty and modern design. It’s a family-friendly place where you can enjoy relaxing walks, creative landmarks, and stunning views of Mount Taranaki in the background.

The “Three Elephants” – Hidden Coastal Gem in New Plymouth

One of the most unique stops in New Plymouth is the “Three Elephants” rock formation, sitting right on the black sand beach. From the car park it looks like a giant rock sitting by the sea, but as you get closer, you discover the cave-like passageways inside that make it so special.

We walked across the wide stretch of beach to reach the rock, and quickly learned one important tip: don’t walk barefoot. The black volcanic sand gets incredibly hot in the sun, and it was tough on our feet — shoes or sandals are a must here.

Inside, the rock formations feel like nature’s own tunnels. The kids loved exploring the cave, running from one side to the other while we admired the patterns and textures on the walls. The view looking out from the dark cave to the bright beach felt magical.

It’s an easy and fun family stop, but timing matters — visit when the tide is low so you can safely explore the caves.

Exploring New Plymouth City – Art, History & Coastal Walks

Apart from its natural beauty, New Plymouth city itself is full of interesting things to do as a family.

Puke Ariki Museum & Art Spaces:

We spent time at the Puke Ariki Museum, which combines art, history, and Māori culture under one roof. The kids loved the interactive displays and wandering around the art installations. For us, it was a great way to understand the region’s stories and enjoy a quieter indoor break after so many outdoor adventures.

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge & Coastal Walkway

Another highlight was walking across the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, part of New Plymouth’s long Coastal Walkway. The bridge itself is a striking piece of architecture, designed to look like a wave or a whale’s skeleton. On a clear day, it perfectly frames Mount Taranaki in the distance, making it one of the most photographed spots in Taranaki. Our kids loved running across the bridge, and we enjoyed the ocean breeze and the views.

It’s a beautiful spot for both short strolls and longer walks or bike rides along the coast.

Mount Taranaki – Scenic Drive & Waterfall Stop

From New Plymouth, we made our way closer to the mighty Mount Taranaki. The drive itself was an adventure — about 4–5 km of narrow winding road through dense forest. While the views were stunning, the road requires careful driving, especially with kids in the car. Take your time, go slow, and be prepared for sharp turns.

One of the highlights along the way was stopping at a beautiful waterfall tucked into the greenery. The fresh spray, moss-covered rocks, and rushing water made it a perfect family photo spot and a chance to stretch our legs. The kids had a great time playing near the rocks while we enjoyed the peaceful setting.

Seeing Mount Taranaki up close felt incredible. Its perfect volcanic cone rises dramatically above the landscape, and even when partly hidden by clouds, it’s a breathtaking sight. For families, even just the drive and short walks around the base make it a memorable experience without needing to attempt a big climb.

From Milford Sound to Picton: Our South Island Journey

After wrapping up our North Island adventures, it’s time to dive into the wild beauty of the South. We’re starting in Milford Sound, where towering cliffs and misty waterfalls set the scene for what’s to come. From there, we’ll wind our way through Fiordland and Southland, uncovering hidden gems, family-friendly stops, and unforgettable experiences all the way up toward Picton. This leg of the trip is about dramatic landscapes, close encounters with wildlife, and plenty of stories worth sharing.

Milford Sound – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Family Experience

We kicked off our Milford Sound journey at 3:00am from Queenstown. It’s around a four-hour drive, and with kids plus unpredictable weather, I’d recommend allowing extra time. We stopped at Te Anau for breakfast — by then the kids were awake and ready to enjoy the incredible views across Fiordland National Park.

The drive itself is an adventure. Up until the Homer Tunnel, the road is steady, but once you pass through, it feels like entering another world — towering cliffs, mist-covered peaks, and waterfalls streaming down from everywhere. Honestly, this stretch is where you start to see the real beauty of New Zealand.

Our cruise departed at 11:30am, and we made it right on time. The trip lasts about an hour, with the captain giving live commentary on the history and waterfalls. You can stand on the top deck to soak in the vast fjord views as the boat travels all the way out to the Tasman Sea, where Milford Sound meets the ocean. One of the highlights for our kids was when the cruise ship edged right up to a waterfall — they got absolutely drenched and loved every minute of it.

Family Tips for Milford Sound:

• Consider booking accommodation in Te Anau the night before — it breaks up the long drive and gives you more time.
• Facilities are limited, but there are toilets and a small café at the Milford Sound terminal.
• Keep two days free in your itinerary — road closures from avalanches or heavy rain are common.
• Book your cruise tickets in advance, especially the underwater observatory option, which gives kids a chance to see rare fish and marine life up close.

You can check out my photos and videos to see just how breathtaking Milford Sound really is.

Queenstown – Family Fun in the Adventure Capital

Queenstown was a highlight of our South Island journey — a place where adventure meets family fun. With Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables as a backdrop, there’s something here for every age.

Queenstown Ice Bar Experience

Walking into a bar made entirely of ice was a fun surprise for the kids. From the walls to the sculptures, everything glowed under colourful lights, creating a magical atmosphere. While adults can enjoy a cocktail in an ice glass, families will find the novelty of exploring a frozen lounge unforgettable. Our kids couldn’t stop touching the carvings and laughing at how “cold the furniture” was!

Glenorchy Day Trip

Just a 45-minute drive from Queenstown, Glenorchy is a picture-perfect spot on the edge of Lake Wakatipu. The famous red Glenorchy Boat Shed is the must-have photo stop, but the journey there is just as breathtaking — winding roads, alpine scenery, and lake views at every turn. It’s a peaceful break from Queenstown’s buzz and an easy family day trip.

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

Arrowtown’s gold rush history comes to life in the old Chinese settlement, where families can wander through tiny stone cottages once home to miners. Our kids were fascinated, imagining life in these small huts tucked under the trees. Arrowtown itself is a charming town with cafes, boutique shops, and autumn colours that make it worth a visit any time of year.

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

For a thrill that doesn’t depend on weather, iFLY Queenstown is a must-try. The kids were nervous at first, but once inside the wind tunnel, they were floating and smiling from ear to ear. With professional instructors guiding them, it felt safe yet exhilarating — the closest you can get to skydiving without jumping from a plane.

Queenstown Waterfront

At the end of busy adventure days, the Queenstown waterfront was our family’s chill-out spot. Sitting on the wooden pier with Lake Wakatipu in front and the Remarkables in the distance, we enjoyed hot drinks and ice creams while watching boats come and go. It’s the perfect place to slow down, people-watch, and soak in Queenstown’s atmosphere.

Wanaka – Lakeside Charm and Mountain Adventures

Just over an hour’s drive from Queenstown, Wanaka is a stunning mix of lakefront relaxation and alpine adventure. The town sits on the edge of Lake Wanaka, with the Southern Alps rising dramatically in the background.

That Wanaka Tree

Probably the most photographed tree in New Zealand, “That Wanaka Tree” sits quietly in Lake Wanaka with the Southern Alps framing the background. We stopped here for photos, and it really is as peaceful and beautiful in real life as it looks online. The kids enjoyed splashing near the shore while we soaked in the views.

Puzzling World – Leaning Tower

Our visit to Puzzling World in Wanaka turned out to be one of the most entertaining stops of our South Island trip. From the moment we arrived, the kids were laughing and running around the quirky attractions.

We started outside with the Leaning Tower of Wanaka, where everyone had fun posing for silly photos, pretending to hold it up. Inside, the adventure continued with a maze of illusion rooms that had us questioning our balance and our eyes. The tilted room, where water seemed to run uphill and we felt like sliding sideways, had the kids in stitches.

The displays of retro toys and holograms were another highlight — a mix of nostalgia for us parents and fascination for the kids. They even hopped into a ride-on spaceship arcade toy, grinning ear to ear as if they were about to blast off.

Every corner of Puzzling World offered something surprising. Between the optical illusions, the tricky puzzles, and the vibrant, colourful setups, it felt like a mix of museum, playground, and photo studio. It was the kind of place where the kids never once asked, “When are we leaving?” — which makes it a win in our books.

Family Tip: Allow at least half a day here. Between photo stops, puzzles, and illusions, you’ll lose track of time. It’s a perfect rainy-day activity too, since most of it is indoors.

Wanaka Classic Car Museum – A Nostalgic Stop for All Ages

On our way through Wanaka, we made a stop at the Wanaka Classic Car Museum, and it turned out to be a fun mix of nostalgia and discovery. Inside, rows of beautifully restored vintage cars lined the halls — everything from gleaming classics to quirky retro models that made us pause and smile.

The kids were fascinated by the shapes and colours of cars from a time before seat screens and Bluetooth, while we parents enjoyed the trip down memory lane. Beyond the cars, there were also plenty of little surprises — from retro signs to photo boards where the kids (and adults) could pose as an old-fashioned family. That silly moment of putting our faces through the cut-outs gave us one of our favourite holiday photos.

For families, the museum is a nice change of pace after the outdoor adventures of Queenstown and Wanaka. It’s an easy stop that doesn’t take long, but it leaves you with a sense of how travel used to feel in a different era.

Family Tip: This is a great rainy-day option or a relaxed stop on your Wanaka itinerary. The museum is compact enough that kids won’t get bored, and adults will love the history behind each display.

Wanaka to Lake Tekapo via Lindis Pass

After spending a wonderful time in Wanaka, we packed up and began our journey towards Lake Tekapo. The drive through Lindis Pass turned out to be one of the most scenic stretches of our entire trip — winding roads surrounded by golden hills slowly turning white with snow as we climbed higher.

We stopped at a beautiful spot along the pass where the ground was completely covered in snow. The kids couldn’t contain their excitement — they ran, laughed, and danced on the frozen ground, leaving little footprints behind

A bit further down the road, we found another magical place where every bush and blade of grass was coated in frost, sparkling like tiny crystals in the soft morning light. It felt like walking through a frozen fairytale

Lake Tekapo

Soon after, the turquoise shimmer of Lake Tekapo came into view, and it honestly felt like driving straight into a postcard. Our first stop was the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, a peaceful stone chapel sitting right on the edge of the lake

We decided to stay overnight in Lake Tekapo just to experience its world-famous stargazing — and we were so lucky to get a perfectly clear sky. That night we had one of the best views of the stars we’ve ever seen.

We even set up a little BBQ by our stay and enjoyed dinner under a blanket of stars — such a magical way to end the day.