Nz otago rail trail biking family header
Nz raglan surf school 1 family active
Nz kaikoura dolphin view boat family see and do active
Nz glenorchy jet boat national park family see and do active
Nz otago rail trail biking family header
Nz raglan surf school 1 family active
Nz kaikoura dolphin view boat family see and do active
Nz glenorchy jet boat national park family see and do active
Unique family friendly activities

Top things to do in New Zealand for families

As a family orientated country, New Zealand has all the ingredients to ensure you’ll have a relaxing holiday together. We have personally selected extraordinary local experiences for children of all ages. And our focus is on nature conservation and small-scale locally owned companies.

Go Kiwi spotting on Kapiti Island. Or hop in a double kayak. Climb. Go horse trekking through the wilderness. Learn to surf. Cycle through the aromatic vineyards. Trek to a remote alpine lake. Swim with dolphins. Discover the endless ‘tramping’ paths.

Discover more about our extraordinary range of activities in New Zealand

Look inside our best active activities for families

Discover the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Site by jet boat

Queenstown, New Zealand

Travel through the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park

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Explore the Poor Knights Islands

Whangarei & Tutukaka Coast, New Zealand

Experience the ultimate non-diving Poor Knights Island tour

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Cycle the Tongariro River Trail

Taupo, New Zealand

Take it easy, cycle at a relaxed pace and enjoy a family day out.

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Kayak the sparkling blue waters of a marine reserve

Coromandel, New Zealand

Experience one of the best sea kayak tours in New Zealand

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Swim with dolphins in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand

Be entertained by playful and acrobatic dolphins in Kaikoura

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A New Zealand farming tour like no other

Queenstown, New Zealand

This is a New Zealand farming tour like no other

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Explore a bird sanctuary and marine reserve

Kapiti Island, New Zealand

Visit a protected island and bird paradise by boat

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Cycle the Otago Rail Trail

Central Otago, New Zealand

Cycle the famous Otago Rail Trail

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Explore the magical Mou Waho Island with your family

Wanaka, New Zealand

Experience the ultimate lake and mountain adventure

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Get off the beaten track in Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

Experience a 4WD along roads seldom travelled

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"I recommend going mountain biking and tramping in New Zealand. You can spend hours in the beautiful, unspoilt nature."

Bart, Travel specialist

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Available for all your questions

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No question is too crazy. Our experienced travel experts are available to assist you with your dream holiday to New Zealand.

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.