We’ve got activities for all kinds of kids this holiday season: outdoorsy-types, history buffs, energy bunnies and crafty kiddos. Without further ado, here are 10 fun things to do and add into your vacation bucket list these school holidays!
Waterfalls and Walks
NZ is a hotspot of scenic spaces and places. There are lots of sites to be discovered and explored – some of our favourites include the Rere Rockslide in Gisborne and the Spa Park in Taupo (fitted out with walking tracks, playgrounds and natural pools!).
Museums
Museums are one of the perfect places to be in the summer holidays and a great discovery zone for dinosaur-crazy kids. Considering the heatwave swathing the whole country, anywhere with air conditioning is a welcome haven. Museums provide cool, educational, imagination-expanding fun!
Splash Pads
Splash pads are the newest family fun to hit NZ shores. Our favourites include the Margaret Mahy playground in Christchurch, the Marine Gardens Playground in Paraparaumu, and the Napier Aquatic Centre. Check out our full splash-tastic list here.
High Ropes and Zip Lines
Who said holidays are just for relaxation? Go up, up and up into the sky, and get an adrenaline kick with treetops and zip line adventures. If you don’t want to miss out on the hype, flick over to our list on the top must do zip lines in NZ.
Family Beach Trip
It wouldn’t be a kiwi Christmas without a classic beach trip. Whether it’s your local or you’re trekking a little farther afield for the best beach, NZ has every kind of shore on offer. Find our family-friendly beaches list here.
Family Feud
Get ready for an all-out war, with either nerf guns or water balloons or water guns. Kids love this summer activity; the fun ranges from fort-building to team-building. Round up the whole family (or even the whole neighbourhood) and get ready to fight.
Ice Cream
From your average two-scoops-in-a-cone, to a fully-fledged monster shake, we are all screaming for ice cream! Embrace your local dairy or go boutique style; there’s an option for every kind of eater.
Games and Sports
Bust out that old cricket bat that has been gathering dust, pump up the rugby ball, and search out the volleyball net – it’s the season to be outside! For those who aren’t as confident in the sporting department, swing ball is a great alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Zoos
Animals are going to be out and about this summer too! Watch the hippos bathe in the sun, hear the monkeys squeal in playful delight – your own little monkey is going to love the experience. Check out why we think zoos are perfect places for kids here.
Arts and Crafts
Spark your kid’s kiwi ingenuity with some arts and crafts. We’ve got the methods to making pool noodle boats, cement sandcastles and rock painting! And kids, it’s the best time of year to bring out those Moana costumes (here are our tips to making your costume epic).
