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Family itinerary · by Michael Nees

12-day New Zealand with kids itinerary

This 12 day New Zealand with kids vacation includes a lot of outdoor adventures and authentic nature tours. Whalewatch, kayaking, caving and much more.

Highlights

  • Cruise Auckland Harbour and see whales and dolphins.
  • Discover the 'underworld' by visiting the Glowworm Caves in Waitomo.
  • Take a Flying fox eco-adventure over the canopy of an ancient native forest.
  • Learn about the culture and history of the local indigenous Maori people.
  • Visit a real New Zealand farm - meet the animals and the working farm dogs!
  • Take a fun jet boat ride into the Mt. Aspiring National Park to LOTR sites.
  • Family friendly guided kayaking tour in the pristine Abel Tasman NP.

Day by day

  1. Day 1

    Auckland

    A transfer driver will meet you at the arrival gate, Auckland Airport. After transfer to your hotel for check-in, head out to explore the America's Cup village. See the city and harbour views from the Sky Tower. Take a boat trip to either beautiful Waiheke Island or across to Devonport. Visit the shops and cafes of Parnell Village.

    Stay: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (opens in a new tab)

    • Optional extraSky Tower
  2. Day 2

    Auckland

    Auckland is a strongly connected urban environment. Most of Auckland's people live within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanted holiday islands. Rangitoto Island is only a short ferry ride away. Today you'll be joining the Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari.

    Stay: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (opens in a new tab)

  3. Day 3

    Rotorua

    Travel through the Waikato region to the famous Waitomo caves (3 hours). See the stunning architectural forms of the stalactites. Your family will join a guided tour into the Ruakuri Cave. However if you prefer the more adventurous 'Black Water Rafting' or abseiling (4 or 7 hours), let us know to include it in your itinerary. Arrive at Rotorua in the afternoon (2 hours).

    Stay: Regent of Rotorua (opens in a new tab)

  4. Day 4

    Rotorua

    Rotorua is a region of bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs. In the morning join the Canopy Eco tour - zipline on a steel wire through a native rainforest. The Canopy Eco Tours company supports a pest control conservation project so this highlight is also educational. Rotorua offers a spiritual journey into Maori culture with village and performance experiences in the evening.

    Stay: Regent of Rotorua (opens in a new tab)

  5. Day 5

    Rotorua

    Rotorua and Taupo are famous for their geotechnonic activity including bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs. In the morning take an exciting helicopter flight over Mount Tarawera. In the afternoon, explore scenic sites between Rotorua and Taupo.

    Stay: Regent of Rotorua (opens in a new tab)

  6. Day 6

    Arrowtown

    Take a domestic flight to Queenstown from Rotorua or Auckland. Queenstown is New Zealand's 'Adventure Capital and has many adrenaline-rush activities. The scenery is breathtaking and dramatic! Collect another rental car from the airport and travel to your accommodation which is located outside the central hub.

  7. Day 7

    Arrowtown

    The Queenstown region is a paradise for family travellers. There are so many world-class facilities and restaurants to suit every taste. You will also be able to access the rural heartland New Zealand in a matter of minutes! Go on a fully guided private farm 4WD excursion. Eat a hearty lunch before doing the Dart River Jet in the afternoon. All transfers are included.

    Stay: Millbrook Resort (opens in a new tab)

  8. Day 8

    Arrowtown

    You will have another day in Queenstown to enjoy an endless choice of activities. However keep in mind that whatever you choose to do, will depend on your interests and the ages of your children.

    Stay: Millbrook Resort (opens in a new tab)

  9. Day 9

    Abel Tasman National Park

    Take a domestic flight to Nelson in the Abel Tasman region. Collect another rental car at the airport and drive towards your nearby accommodation. The Nelson-Tasman region contains New Zealand's smallest national park with 22,350ha. Golden beaches and azure waters stretch from Marahau, near Motueka, to Wainui Bay, in Golden Bay. This region is also famous for its great seafood and boutique family-owned wineries.

  10. Day 10

    Abel Tasman National Park

    The scenery on the Abel Tasman Coast Track is breathtaking! This great New Zealand walk passes through golden beaches and coastal forests. Take a personalised day trip with an Eco boat tour and learn more about the local environment. Another option is a Abel Tasman Charter cruise tour for a day. On the Charter Cruise, you and your family will be given the use of sea kayaks.

    Stay: Ruby Bay Vineyard Lodge & Cottage (opens in a new tab)

  11. Day 11

    Abel Tasman National Park

    Spend another day in the stunning Nelson-Tasman region. Consider taking a guided or independent family cycle trip. The local 'Taste Cycle Trail' in the Mapua region is a stunning experience. There are many local sites to stop at and enjoy the last full day of your New Zealand family itinerary.

    Stay: Ruby Bay Vineyard Lodge & Cottage (opens in a new tab)

  12. Day 12

    South Island

    Depart with a domestic flight from Nelson to Auckland and connect with your international flight. Alternatively you can extend your time in New Zealand.

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