5 Family Friendly Day Trips Around New Zealand

New Zealand is a world renowned for stunning landscapes, exciting attractions, and family-friendly activities, making it the perfect country for day trips with kids. Whether you're a parent planning a weekend adventure or a nanny looking for fun ways to keep the children entertained, New Zealand offers a variety of destinations that are easy to reach and packed with fun. 

In this blog, we’ll take you through the Caresies team’s top five of the best family-friendly day trips around New Zealand. Whilst they are spread out across the country, we’ve tried to choose activities so there is a little bit of something for everyone in areas across NZ! 

Also, we probably could have made this a list of 50 activities but we had to stop somewhere and 5 has a nice ring to it! 

1. Hobbiton – Matamata 

At number one (but in no specific order) is one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. Hobbiton in Matamata offers a magical experience for both children and adults. Whether or not you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, this picturesque movie set transports visitors to a whimsical world of lush green hills, charming hobbit holes, and stunning landscapes. 

Activities: 

Hobbiton offers guided tours that take you through the famous movie set, where children can explore the vibrant hobbit holes, winding pathways, and gardens that look like they’re straight out of a storybook. The knowledgeable guides share fun facts and behind-the-scenes stories, making the experience engaging for both adults and children. 

One of the highlights of the tour is visiting the Green Dragon Inn, where families can sit down and enjoy a drink. Kids will love the non-alcoholic ginger beer, specially crafted to give them a taste of the magical world. 

Caresies Tip: 

The tour includes plenty of time for photos, so encourage children to dress up as their favourite hobbit or adventurer for the day! Bringing along a small costume or prop can add an extra layer of fun to the experience. 

2. Zealandia – Wellington 

With most of the Caresies team based in Wellington, we couldn’t miss an opportunity to include our favourite Wellington day trip on the list! 

For families who love nature and wildlife, Zealandia in Wellington is an exceptional day trip destination. This world-first fully fenced eco-sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of New Zealand’s native wildlife, offering a unique opportunity to see rare species up close in a natural environment. Spanning over 225 hectares, Zealandia is home to many of the country's most iconic and endangered animals, making it a fascinating place for children to explore. 

Activities: 

Zealandia offers guided tours as well as self-guided options, where families can walk through the sanctuary at their own pace. Along the way, you’ll spot a variety of native birds such as the kaka, tui, and the endangered takahē. The sanctuary also provides interactive educational displays that are perfect for kids to learn more about New Zealand's unique ecosystem and the importance of conservation. 

For an extra special experience, families can opt for a night tour to see some of the sanctuary’s nocturnal residents, including glowworms and the famous little spotted kiwi, in their natural habitat. 

Caresies Tip: 

Zealandia has designated picnic spots within its grounds, providing a peaceful place for families to relax and enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by native bush. You can also stop by the Rata Café, which offers family-friendly meals and overlooks the tranquil sanctuary. 

3. Rotorua’s Geothermal Parks and Adventure Playgrounds 

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for families seeking adventure and natural wonders. Known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture, Rotorua offers an exciting day trip filled with unique sights, sounds, and experiences. Children will be fascinated by the bubbling mud pools, geysers, and steaming hot springs that create an otherworldly landscape. Plus, just think of the amount of Dad jokes that you can make with the smell in the city! 

Activities: 

Start your day by visiting one of Rotorua’s famous geothermal parks, such as Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland or Te Puia. At Wai-O-Tapu, kids will be mesmerised by the colourful geothermal features like the Champagne Pool and the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily. Te Puia offers the added bonus of Māori cultural performances, where families can learn about traditional crafts and enjoy a welcoming ceremony. 

After exploring the geothermal wonders, head over to the Redwoods Treewalk. This elevated walkway takes you through the majestic Redwood Forest, offering a bird’s-eye view of the towering trees. There are shorter routes perfect for young children, and the forest itself is home to playgrounds where kids can climb, swing, and explore. 

Caresies Tip: 

Rotorua is ideal for families and nannies with adventurous kids who love exploring natural environments. From the thrilling geothermal features to the serene redwood forests, Rotorua offers a day packed with both excitement and education. It’s perfect for children of all ages who enjoy outdoor activities and new experiences. 

4. Auckland Zoo and Western Springs Park 

For families based in or visiting Auckland, a day trip to Auckland Zoo paired with an afternoon at Western Springs Park offers the perfect combination of wildlife exploration and outdoor relaxation. Auckland Zoo is home to over 135 species and is renowned for its efforts in conservation and education, making it an exciting and educational experience for children. 

Activities: 

At Auckland Zoo, families can explore a wide range of animal habitats, from the lush tropical environments of the South East Asia Jungle Track to the African Savannah, where kids can see lions, giraffes, and zebras. The zoo also offers interactive exhibits and keeper talks, where children can learn more about the animals and conservation efforts. 

For younger children, the zoo has designated play areas, like the Nature Play Park, where kids can climb, explore, and use their imaginations in nature-inspired surroundings. The zoo also offers opportunities for families to take part in animal feedings and behind-the-scenes experiences, which can make the visit even more memorable. 

Caresies recommends it for: 

This destination is perfect for families looking for a fun and educational experience with a blend of animal encounters and outdoor activities. Auckland Zoo offers a captivating experience for kids of all ages, while Western Springs Park provides a relaxing place to wind down after an exciting day. It’s especially ideal for families with toddlers and younger children who need space to run and play in a safe environment. 

5. Cathedral Cove – Coromandel Peninsula 

For families and nannies looking to experience the beauty of New Zealand’s coastline, Cathedral Cove on the Coromandel Peninsula is a breathtaking day trip destination. Known for its stunning rock archway, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Cathedral Cove offers a day of relaxation, exploration, and fun for the whole family. 

Activities: 

The most iconic activity at Cathedral Cove is the scenic walk that leads you to the famous rock arch. The walk is about 45 minutes each way, but the journey is worth it as it takes you through lush native bush, offering incredible views of the coastline. Children will love the adventure of hiking down to the cove, and once there, they can explore the rock formations, build sandcastles, or dip their toes in the water. 

If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider booking a kayak tour or a glass-bottom boat ride, which provides a unique way to explore the marine life in the waters surrounding the cove. These tours are perfect for older children and give families a chance to see the area from a different perspective. 

Caresies picnic idea: 

Cathedral Cove’s beaches are perfect for a family picnic. Pack a lunch and enjoy it by the sea while the children play in the sand or splash in the gentle waves. Hahei Beach, located nearby, is another great spot for a swim and offers a slightly easier access point for families with younger kids. 

Plan a Day Trip These School Holidays 

New Zealand is a country filled with natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure, making it the perfect place for family-friendly day trips. Whether you're looking to explore magical movie sets, experience unique wildlife, discover geothermal wonders, or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, there’s something for every family or nanny-child group to enjoy. 

From the iconic Hobbiton and the eco-sanctuary of Zealandia to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the educational fun at Auckland Zoo, and the stunning coastal beauty of Cathedral Cove, these destinations offer a mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. Each location provides plenty of activities to keep children entertained, with picnic spots and playgrounds along the way, making them perfect for day trips with kids of all ages. 

Once the fun is over from the School Holidays, make sure you check out the amazing carers available on Caresies and get your childcare sorted for Term Four.