Activities for Kids in New Zealand
Andrea Thackwray 
06 June 2025 
Planning a trip is hectic, but planning a trip with kids is a whole other challenge. However, you are in luck because New Zealand offers exciting activities for kids that are refreshing and educational. From wildlife encounters to kayaking and cycling through trails, New Zealand truly has everything.
In this blog, I’ve picked some of the most incredible activities for kids across the country. You’ll find everything from farm tours and glow-worm caves to mountain biking, mini-golf, and even flying over whales. I’ve grouped them by theme so you can easily plan your next big family outing.
Wildlife & Marine Encounters
Lake Tekapo High-Country Farm Tour
Lake Tekapo High Country Farm Tour
Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Our High Country Farm Tour is an incredible way to see and learn about farming in the Mackenzie High Country. Take in magnificent views & hand feed our friendly farm yard animals. This off-road adventure is definitel ...
The High-Country Farm Tour is a great activity for kids who love animals. In this tour, they get to see and learn about farming and the numerous farm animals. This 2-hour guided tour doesn’t just give the kids a peek into farm life but encourages them to learn about animals while exploring the remote regions outside of Tekapo. As rustic as the tour gets, you do not need to worry about reaching there. You will be travelling in a 12-seater Mercedes Sprinter to make the bumpy ride a whole lot more comfortable.
The guides ensure that you are informed about the history of Lake Tekapo in great detail. Do not forget to wave at the residents of the farm: Merino sheep, Angus cows, alpacas, horses, and working dogs. But let me give you a heads-up: they might be too occupied and may not wave back. The guides also engage you with their stories about the Irishman Creek Hut while telling you about the forest and the oh-so-big pine cones. The kids will also enjoy the majestic backd-r-o-p of the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook while heading towards the Swan Tarn. Get your kid a pair of good binoculars, as there is a chance they might spot native birds like the Black Stilt. I also recommend their pure honey produced on the farm.
Some other highlights include meeting the famous horses on the ranch. And mind you, they are no ordinary horses, as they are Disney stars who have starred in the new Disney adaptation of Mulan. You might get star-struck with these Disney horses. Then you will be headed towards a private location on Mt John where you can rest and enjoy breathtaking views. Lastly, when you return to the farm, the kids can feed the animals treats with their hands. It can’t get any better than this!
Evening Penguin Safari
Evening Penguin Safari
Akaroa, Canterbury
Observe penguins in the wild on this evening adventure. A wonderful option for people who wish to take part in our monitoring program and learn more, in depth, about our conservation efforts giving you great insight into ...
For families looking for a magical evening for kids that is both fun and educational, the Evening Penguin Safari at Pohatu Bay is a clear winner. The excitement starts right away as kids can take in the magical views and get their energy out on a short walk through the penguin colony. The guides make the experience engaging for the whole family by sharing fascinating facts while helping children explore the nesting sites. The kids get to learn how these adorable native birds have been saved from extinction by over 30 years of conservation work.
There’s something magical yet so real about being part of this behind-the-scenes wildlife adventure. Kids will love using binoculars and a telescope to spot penguins socialising in the bay before dusk, and if you’re lucky enough, you might see some waddling and making their way back to shore before it starts to get dark. If you want to time this adventure accurately, December to February is the perfect time. During this time, you may witness penguins being cared for or even being released back into the wild. This is one of those outdoor activities that’s perfect for children of all ages, giving them a real sense of involvement in protecting wildlife.
Kaikoura - Whale Watching Tour
Kaikoura - Whale Watching Tour
Kaikoura, Canterbury
Experience the beauty and wonder of Kaikōura's marine wildlife from above, with this once in a lifetime whale watching experience. Take in the best views as we slowly orbit around natures largest animals.
If your kids are fascinated by the ocean, the Kaikōura Whale Watching Tour will absolutely blow their minds! And while you might think this is your usual boat ride, it isn’t! It’s a sky-high adventure on an aircraft where every seat is a window seat. From the comfort of a high-winged aircraft, the whole family gets to watch whales in their natural habitat without disturbing them. And the best part is, you can take your infants on this tour for free.
By gliding above the water, kids get to spot sperm whales year-round, and depending on the season, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins or migrating whales. It’s a rare chance to see the world’s largest mammals without getting wet. The views are incredible, the ride is smooth, and it’s one of the most sustainable ways to whale-watch. It’s a fun, educational, and totally unforgettable family adventure that’s sure to be the highlight of any trip.
Water-Based Adventures
Family Fun Raft Trip
Family Fun Raft Trip
Hawkes Bay
Come rafting on the beautiful Mohaka River and have fun with the whole family. This grade two section has small rapids with very scenic views as well.
If your kids love to spend quality time outdoors with the whole family, then the Family Fun Raft Trip on the Mighty Mohaka River is the perfect pick. This two-hour rafting trip is designed with families in mind, gliding through gentle Grade 2 white water that's just the right amount of thrill without being too wild for younger children. You don’t need to worry about gear, as everything you need for a safe and comfortable ride is provided.
The kids will also surely love spotting the beautiful waterfalls and soaking up the scenery in this stunning region. This outdoor activity is sure to get everyone laughing, paddling, and making memories together. This will also be a good break for kids, far away from screen time and school routines. This rafting trip is safe, splashy, and full of smiles, made for the whole family.
Auckland Bioluminescence Night Kayak Tour
Auckland Bioluminescence Kayak Tour
Northern Bays, Auckland
Set off on an enchanting adventure with Social Nature Movement's bioluminescence kayak tour in Auckland. As night descends, glide through calm waters that light up with the glow of bioluminescent organisms, turning your ...
Tired of the day trips and want to give your kids a nighttime adventure so magical they’ll never forget? The Auckland Bioluminescence Night Kayak Tour is like stepping into a glow-in-the-dark fairytale. As you paddle through calm waters under a starry sky, every stroke lights up the sea with sparkling plankton. It’s nature’s very own light show, making it one of the coolest activities for kids who love science, stars, and splashing around.
This small-group tour is perfect for the whole family and combines fun with fascinating facts about bioluminescence. The kids will get hands-on experience with the glowing water, learning about the tiny marine organisms behind the shimmer. All this learning with no screens or textbooks. How cool is that? With all gear provided and expert guides leading the way, it’s safe and one of the best outdoor activities for children and older kids alike. Just dip your hand in and watch the water shine.
Glow-Worm Adventures
Family-Friendly Caving Adventure
Family Friendly Caving Adventure!
Hamilton & Waikato
30 million years ago Mother Nature worked her magic and began to form some of the most incredible and beautiful caves the Waikato has to offer. Join Raglan Rock’s family caving adventure exploring this natural undergro ...
Finally, some underground adventure that the kids can enjoy with the whole family! Hidden in the beautiful Waikato countryside, the Karamu Cave is packed with prehistoric wonders. It has everything from sparkling crystals to ancient fossils to the famous glow worms, which the kids will surely enjoy. This tour is one of the most unique activities for kids, combining exploration with a bit of natural magic. You also get to sip Kawakawa tea while gazing at glow worms overhead! How cool is that?
Whether your kids are thrill-seekers or just curious explorers, there’s a route for every comfort level. If you want, you can crawl through the stream. And if you are up for some challenge, go for the tight squeezes and fun wriggles. With small groups, friendly guides, and all gear provided, this is the kind of experience that builds confidence, curiosity, and plenty of muddy smiles. For children, older kids, and parents alike, it’s a muddy and fun journey into the heart of nature.
Underworld Glow Worm Cave Tour/Rafting
Underworld Adventures
Punakaiki, West Coast
Join us on a magical journey of discovery in the awe-inspiring Ananui GlowWorm Caves with our award-winning Underworld Rafting adventure. Explore an untamed calcite paradise of stalactites and stalagmites in the eons- ...
If you want an adventure that feels straight out of a fantasy film for the kids, the Underworld Glow Worm Cave Tour is a must-do for kids and older children. The place is in the heart of Paparoa National Park. This 4-hour underground journey takes you into the enormous Ananui Cave with no boardwalks, no bright lights, just nature and the glow worms.
The adventure starts with a rainforest train ride and a short walk to the cave entrance, where the real magic begins. Guided only by torchlight, you'll walk through stunning cave formations. These formations include dripping stalactites, towering stalagmites, and ancient underground chambers. Then, grab your tube and prepare for the ultimate adventure. You will float together beneath thousands of twinkling glowworms in complete darkness. It’s one of the most unique activities for kids and the whole family, with just the right amount of thrill. With free photos and all gear included, it’s the kind of experience that will light up your child’s imagination!
Cycling and Exploring
Waitangi Mountain-Bike Park Experience
Waitangi Mountain Bike Park Experience
Bay Of Islands, Northland
Get ready for an adventure like no other! Discover the exhilarating trails of Waitangi Mountain Bike Park with Paihia Mountain Bikes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, we guarantee an incredible day out ...
This mountain bike experience is one where the kids will happily trade their screen time for some outdoor adventure. The Waitangi Mountain Bike Park consists of trails that wind through native forests and offer stunning ocean views. Whether the kids are confident riders or total beginners, the park has tracks for all skill levels. Even younger children can get involved with help from Paihia Mountain Bikes.
And you don’t need your own gear, as all of it is provided. High-quality full suspension bikes and e-bikes are available to rent, making the whole experience smooth and comfortable for all ages. As your kids navigate the turns and descents, they will not just be having fun but will be building confidence. With 50 km of trails and incredible views at every turn, this is one of those activities for kids that will get the whole family moving and laughing.
A Round at WellyPutt Mini Golf
A Round at WellyPutt Mini Golf
Wellington City, Wellington
Experience mini-golf like never before at WellyPutt! Wellington's highest rated mini-golf features 16-holes packed with jaw-dropping moving obstacles, epic hands-on gameplay like you've never played before and awesom ...
If you want a quirky and totally out-of-the-box activity for the kids, then WellyPutt Mini Golf in Wellington is where it’s at! This isn’t your average mini-golf setup; this is 16 holes of pure imagination. The place has moving obstacles, mechanical contraptions, and interactive challenges that will have kids, older children, and even parents laughing their way through the course.
From launching your ball with a catapult to dodging cable cars and putting through Wellington’s iconic bucket fountain, every hole is a new adventure packed with energy and creativity. It’s one of the best indoor activities for kids that gets everyone active and engaged. This is perfect for birthday parties, school holidays, or a family weekend outing. With epic artwork, Wellington-themed holes, and hands-on games like foosball and pulley-powered puzzles, this activity is sure to spark critical thinking skills and loads of laughter.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand offers unforgettable activities that will spark curiosity and build confidence in your kids. Whether you're exploring caves, watching penguins, or tackling a trail, these experiences are more than just fun; they're chances to connect and make memories that last.
To discover even more amazing trips, tours, and family-friendly experiences, head over to SeeAndDo.co.nz!
Andrea Thackwray
