New Zealand is known for its incredible landscapes and amazing outdoor activities. From the remote beaches of the North Island to the majestic mountains of the South Island, New Zealand offers a wide range of activities for families of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend away or full-blown holiday adventure, there are plenty of family-friendly wilderness regions in New Zealand that offer something for everyone.
Here is a guide to New Zealand’s best family-friendly wilderness regions, with a focus on activities, sightseeing, and relaxation.
Abel Tasman National Park
Located on the northern tip of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park offers a variety of family-friendly activities. From beaches and unique wildlife to tranquil rivers and walking tracks, Abel Tasman has something for every family.
The waters of Abel Tasman are popular for family kayaking trips, and the park’s white-sand beaches are excellent for swimming and sunbathing. For more adventurous families, the Abel Tasman Coast Track is a great option, with its picturesque scenery and easy walking terrain.
Activities
- Kayaking: Abel Tasman is an excellent destination for family kayaking trips, with its peaceful bays and easy-to-navigate rivers.
- Swimming: There are plenty of wide, tranquil coves for family swimming and the warm waters of Abel Tasman are perfect for a dip.
- Coast Track: The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a great adventure for families, with its stunning views and easy walking terrain.
Where to Stay
Abel Tasman has a range of accommodation options for families, ranging from camping to self-contained beachfront chalets. There are also a variety of cafes and restaurants in the area, offering a range of food and beverages.
- Camping: Abel Tasman National Park has a number of campsites available for families, with a range of facilities and amenities.
- Accommodation: There are a number of self-contained chalets and cabins in the area, offering excellent views of the park.
- Dining: Abel Tasman has a variety of cafes and restaurants, offering a range of cuisine and delicious food and drink.
Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park is a popular destination for families, with its spectacular mountain views and excellent activities. Located on the North Island, the area is known for its skiing, trekking, and hot springs.
The park’s famous “Tongariro Alpine Crossing” is well-known for its stunning views and easy-going terrain. The area also has a number of hiking trails, perfect for families looking for an adventure.
Activities
- Skiing: Tongariro National Park is well-known for its skiing, with its excellent slopes and excellent facilities.
- Hiking: There are a number of fantastic hiking trails in the area, perfect for families looking to explore the area.
- Hot Springs: The area is home to a number of hot springs, providing a wonderful relaxation spot for families.
Where to Stay
Tongariro National Park has a range of accommodation options for families, including camping and self-contained chalets. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants in the area, offering a range of food and beverages.
- Camping: Tongariro National Park has a range of campsites, with a variety of facilities and amenities.
- Accommodation: There are a number of self-contained chalets and cabins in the park, offering excellent views of the area.
- Dining: Tongariro has some fantastic cafes and restaurants, offering a range of cuisine and delicious food and drink.
Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is one of the most popular destinations for families in New Zealand, with its majestic mountains, glaciers, and stunning lakes. Located on the South Island, the area is well-known for its exceptional walking and boat tours.
The area offers plenty of family-friendly activities, from boat cruises to kayaking and walking. With its stunning views and varied terrain, Fiordland is an ideal place for families to explore together.
Activities
- Boat Cruises: There are plenty of boat cruises available in Fiordland, offering a unique way to explore the area.
- Kayaking: The area is an ideal destination for family kayaking trips, with its tranquil bays and plenty of wildlife.
- Walking: There are a number of walking tracks in the park, ranging from easy to difficult, making it an ideal spot for families with varying levels of experience.
Where to Stay
Fiordland National Park has a range of accommodation options for families, from camping to self-contained chalets. The area also has some excellent cafes and restaurants, offering a range of local and international cuisine.
- Camping: Fiordland National Park has a number of campsites available for families, with a range of facilities and amenities.
- Accommodation: There are plenty of self-contained chalets and cabins in the area, offering excellent views of the park.
- Dining: Fiordland has some fantastic cafes and restaurants, offering a range of cuisine and delicious food and drink.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s family-friendly wilderness regions offer a range of activities and attractions for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a weekend away or a full-blown adventure holiday, there’s something for everyone in the area. From kayaking and hiking to swimming and skiing, there are plenty of options for families to explore in these amazing destinations.