Are you looking for a family-friendly outdoor activity this summer? New Zealand offers some of the best botanic parks and gardens to explore with your family. From lakeside gardens to beachside parks and meandering paths, New Zealand offers a wide range of beautiful gardens and botanic parks that the whole family can enjoy.
To help you plan your family’s outdoor adventure, we’ve put together this guide to the best family-friendly gardens and botanic parks in New Zealand.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are world-renowned for their beauty and educational opportunities. The gardens are located in the heart of Christchurch and offer a range of paths and trails for families to explore. The gardens consist of 21 hectares of tranquil gardens, with a variety of plants and trees from all over the world, including rhododendrons, roses, camellias and magnolias.
The gardens also feature several special spots that the family can enjoy, such as the aviary, which houses an array of native and exotic birds, and the lake, which is home to ducks and other water birds.
Children will love playing in the children’s play area, which is full of interactive play equipment, and families can also enjoy a picnic lunch on the grassy lawns.
Otari-Wilton’s Bush Native Botanic Garden
Located on the slopes of the Wilton Valley in Wellington, Otari-Wilton’s Bush Native Botanic Garden is the perfect destination for families who love nature. The garden is home to a wide range of native New Zealand plants and trees, including ferns, rata, cabbage trees and kauri trees.
Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the peaceful beauty of the native bush, or take the Otari-Wilton’s Bush Nature Trail, which follows several winding paths and offers spectacular views of the city and harbour.
Pukekura Park
Pukekura Park is one of New Zealand’s most popular family-friendly gardens, located in New Plymouth. With its lush gardens, winding paths and man-made waterways, Pukekura Park is a paradise for families looking for a peaceful and tranquil escape.
The views from the park are spectacular, and families can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake, observe the native birds, or take in the breathtaking views of the Taranaki landscape.
Children will love the playground and the fun activities, such as feeding the ducks, while parents can enjoy a picnic lunch on the grassy lawns or take a stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens.
Family-Friendly Activities in New Zealand’s Gardens and Botanic Parks
No matter which gardens and botanic parks you choose to explore with your family, you can be sure that there will be plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of our favourite family-friendly activities in New Zealand’s gardens and botanic parks:
- Picnics: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a family meal in the great outdoors.
- Fishing: Take a fishing rod and enjoy a spot of fishing in serene surroundings.
- Bird watching: Keep an eye out for native birds while exploring the gardens.
- Playground: Have fun in the playgrounds, which are perfect for children of all ages.
- Boat ride: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on a lake or pond.
- Nature trails: Take a nature trail and explore the gardens and parks.
Tips for Visiting New Zealand’s Gardens and Botanic Parks with Your Family
To make the most of your family’s outing to New Zealand’s gardens and botanic parks, follow these tips:
- Check opening hours: Make sure to check the opening hours of the gardens and parks before you visit.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Always dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring snacks and water: Bring plenty of snacks and water to keep everyone hydrated and energized.
- Be respectful: Make sure to be respectful of nature and other visitors.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect from the sun.
Conclusion
New Zealand has some of the most beautiful gardens and botanic parks in the world, and exploring them with your family is a great way to spend quality time together. From lakeside gardens and beachside parks to meandering nature trails and interactive playgrounds, New Zealand’s gardens and botanic parks offer something for everyone.
So take the time to visit one of New Zealand’s incredible gardens and botanic parks this summer and explore the beauty of nature with your family.