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New Zealand's summer season, from December to February, offers a diverse array of family-friendly activities that capture the essence of Kiwi culture and the nation's natural beauty. Here are some popular summer family activities in New Zealand:
Summer Family Activities in New Zealand Beach Outings and Water Sports
New Zealand boasts numerous pristine beaches ideal for family outings. Destinations like the Bay of Islands and the Coromandel Peninsula offer opportunities for swimming, building sandcastles, and engaging in water sports such as kayaking, paddle boarding and diving. The clear waters and safe swimming conditions make these beaches perfect for families with children.
Exploring National Parks
The country's national parks provide excellent settings for family adventures. The Abel Tasman National Park, Tongariro Crossing, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Fiordland National Park, feature walking tracks suitable for all ages, where families can enjoy native bush, golden beaches, and wildlife encounters. Guided tours and educational programs are often available, enhancing the experience for young explorers.
Visiting Wildlife Sanctuaries & Zoos
Experiencing New Zealand's unique fauna is a must-do. Sanctuaries offer families the chance to observe native birds and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Interactive exhibits and guided walks provide educational fun for all ages. View New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks at Milford Sound, Akaroa and Kaikōura along with whale watching. Or visit the Franz Josef West Coast Wildlife Centre where you can see a live kiwi and tuatara. Book a 'must-do' trip to Stewart Island's Ulva Island with unspoiled beaches, hidden coves, and a guided forest walk of Ulva Island's renowned bird sanctuary. Meet the Gentoo and King Penguins at Sealife's Kelly Tarlton's in Auckland and see little Blue Penguins - birds that have been rescued and cared for at the Christchurch International Antarctic Centre.
Popular Zoo's include Auckland Zoo, Orana Park and Willow Bank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch and the Wellington Zoo.
Farm Visits and Agricultural Shows
Experiencing rural life is a quintessential Kiwi activity. Attractions like the Agrodome in Rotorua provide interactive farm experiences, including sheep shearing demonstrations and opportunities to feed farm animals or the famous TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour. These visits are both educational and entertaining, offering insight into New Zealand's agricultural heritage.
Adventure Experiences
For thrill-seeking families, New Zealand offers a range of adventure activities. Our 'Adventure Capital' in Queenstown offers families a wide variety of experiences including the Shotover River: Extreme Jet Boat ride, the Gondola and Luge, Haunted House, River Surfing or Sledging on the Kawarau River or fly through the forest canopy high above Queenstown on the Ziplines! In Rotorua they can dive into a giant inflatable ball and roll down Mt Ngongotaha with ZORB, or walk among towering trees on suspended bridges at the Redwoods Altitude High Ropes Adventure.
Geothermal Wonders
Exploring geothermal areas is a unique experience in regions like Rotorua. Families will enjoy the Hobbiton & Rotorua including Te Puia Small Group Tour from Auckland. Visit geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, learning about the geothermal activity that shapes New Zealand's landscape. Or visit Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and water slides just one hour out of Christchurch..
Star Gazing
New Zealand's clear summer skies make it an excellent destination for stargazing. Pack up the family and take the Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo 2-Day Small Group Tour from Queenstown. The Dark Sky Project combines tatai aroraki (Maori astronomy), storytelling and science with fascinating multimedia installations where families can learn about constellations and observe celestial phenomena through telescopes. It's an awe-inspiring experience that combines education with the wonder of the night sky.
Cultural Performances
Attending Māori cultural performances provides families with an understanding of New Zealand's indigenous heritage. Visit the historic site where the Treaty between the Māori and the Europeans was signed in 1840, Book a tour to Rotorua including Te Puia and experience the raw power and beauty of our Maori culture with a concert and buffet lunch - or visit the traditional Mitai Maori Village and learn more about their customs and rituals, including a tasty hangi feast.
These summer family activities in New Zealand offer a blend of adventure, education, and culture, ensuring memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
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