Top activities to keep the kids entertained these holidays

Trying to get the kids out of the house these holidays? Whether you’re staying at home or getting out this autumn, we have some great outdoor activities to get the whole family involved. 

Hiking

Discover sublime hiking trails scattered throughout the country perfect for kids these school holidays. There is an incredible range of tramping and hiking trails at your disposal during this autumn season. 

Bay of Plenty 

The Mount Maunganui Track offers the chance to see wildlife and the view from the summit is iconic, well worth the huff and puff. 

Know before you go: 

• Length: 5.8 km: 40mins
• Route type: Loop

More information about this track: 

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/bay-of-plenty/mount-maunganui-track?ref=result-card

Canterbury

The Hooker Valley Track to Hooker lake located near Mount Cook National Park is easy to follow and good for all skill levels in the family. This track follows a walk over bridges and beautiful ice formations. These spectacular views are best viewed just in time for the school holidays. 

Know before you go: 

• Length: 10.5 km 
• Only a few inclines / steps
• Route type: Out & back

More information about this track:

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/canterbury/hooker-valley-track-to-hooker-lake 

Kayaking

We know, it can be difficult to plan a kayaking tour when you have little ones. We have provided you with accessible kayaking adventures for families and young children so you, grown-ups, dying to enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery, don’t have to ditch the kids to do so. 

Taupo

Experience a kayaking tour like no other in New Zealand’s biggest lake. Whether you adventure out to the Huka Falls and Aratiatia Rapids or Maori rock carvings and the Waikato River, you and your family are spoilt for choice when it comes to paddling options. 

Know before you go: 

• This is best suited for families with adult children
• Tours include: Canoe & Kayak Taupo Tours: 

More information about this tour: https://www.canoeandkayak.co.nz

/tours/taupo-tours/

Nelson

Abel Tasman National Park is one of the most popular adventure places in New Zealand for kayaking, the gorgeous weather year-round makes it perfect for these school holidays. Abel Tasman provides long beaches and tranquil bays of crystal clear waters suited for families with children. 

Know before you go: 

• This is best suited for families with children under 16 years of age
• Tours include: Kaiteriteri Kayaks

More information about this tour:

https://www.seakayak.co.nz/

Fiordland 

Bring the whole family to Fiordland's iconic Milford sounds kayak tour featuring Mitre Peak. Depending on the day, you can experience the crisp blue sky in eerily still water on a clear day, or when it's raining the magnificent waterfalls come to life.  

Know before you go: 

• This is best suited for families with children under 6 years of age
• Tours include: Cruise & Kayak 

More information about this tour:https://www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz

/milford-sound/kayaking/cruise-kayak/

Mountain Biking

Bay of Plenty

For beach loving families, the dunes trail provides super smooth riding suitable for all families. This trail follows the dunes east of Opotiki, starting at the impressive Pakowhai Ki Otutaopuku suspension bridge. There are plenty of opportunities for swimming and playtime in the sand with amazing ocean views for the whole family to enjoy. 

Know before you go: 

• Around 10 km 

More information about this tour:

https://www.nzcycletrail.com/inspire-your-ride/10-top-family-bike-rides

Wellington

Take the family on Wellington's most popular family outing these school holidays. This trail follows the old railway route between Upper Hutt and the Wairarapa. For when the kids get hungry, pack the perfect family picnic and enjoy it at the end of the climb! 

Know before you go:

• Around 25 km (2-4 hours) 

Hauraki 

This laidback trail is perfect for the family. The Hauraki Rail Trail traces the shorebird Coast and follows old railway lines between the historic gold towns of Thames. It is a flat, easy ride suitable for all ages. 

Know before you go: 

• Around 173 km (1 - 4 days)
• Suitable for all bikes from children's bikes to mountain bikes.

More information about this tour:  https://www.nzcycletrail.com/find-your-ride/22-great-rides/hauraki-rail-trail/

Camping in your backyard

If it is an impossible time to get away, the next best option is simply opening your back door. Turning your backyard into your own personal campsite is a pretty easy way to experience the great outdoors without packing the car and the bags. Get creative and create a backyard camp by  pitching a tent, setting up the  camping chairs around the fire and cook up some delicious  campfire recipes (s’mores are a must-have sweet treat while telling spooky stories!).