Family Vacations in New Zealand
Newzealand-Family Vacations
Queenstown- the adventure capital of New Zealand, rating internationally as one of the world’s top destinations. This bold and vibrant town is famous for bringing extreme sport and the novice together in a safe and stunning environment. Add to this the world-class restaurants and cafes, live music and year round shows and events and you have the essence of Queenstown -a town of beauty, vitality and culture, all amidst a spectacular natural playground.
Wanaka- a perfect family destination - this small and still peaceful township is situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka with the area’s most stunning valleys, mountains and glaciers on its doorstep, many accessible on foot. Wanaka boasts four great ski areas plus a wide range of activities from jetboating and horseriding to the famous Puzzling World.
Te Anau and Fiordland- the gateway to the Fiordland National Park, is only 2 hours drive from Queenstown. While the rugged splendour of Milford and Doubtful Sounds are but a short journey away, Te Anau is
bustling with accommodation, restaurants and shops.
Family Fun Activities
Dart River Safari
“A journey that touches your soul”
Jetboat over 50kms amidst towering peaks and glaciers to the upper reaches of the Dart River. See film locations from “The Lord of the Rings”on the backroad journey through Paradise.
Dart Wilderness Aventures
It offers the original Dart River jet boat trip. 80kms of jetboating - the longest jetboat excursion in New Zealand, through the Southern corridor of Mount Aspiring National Park.
Shotover Jet
The world’s most famous jetboat ride in the spectacular Shotover River canyons!Our ‘Family Thrill Therapy session’ is the ultimate family fun. Experience the natural highs of exciting jetboating and fuel up on adrenaline. The trademark 360° Shotover Jet spin, the unrivaled drivestyle and driver entertainment add up to a must do family experience. Professionally trained ‘Thrill Therapists’ are totally committed to delivering the highest quality in service and safety. Excitement guaranteed!
The Bead Shop
Relax in our friendly, colourful shop. Have fun designing your own wearable art or choose from our handcrafted selection. Hundreds of colours and styles of pieces to choose from to make your jewellery unique! Birthday parties and groups welcome.
Deer Park Hieghts
Great value family entertainment: Drive through a working deer farm. Hand feed goats, sheep, deer, llamas and thar ($1 coin required).Picnic by a mountain tarn, enjoy an easy 20 minute walk, all taking in Queenstown’s most spectacular views. Location for “Lord of the Rings”.
Destination Art
Ideal for all ages.
A great opportunity to try a wide range of art and craft classes - all with a New Zealand flavour. Whether you choose an old favourite or something totally new, unleash your creativity at Destination Art! Easels for hire plus extensive range of art and craft supplies. Take home your own original New Zealand keepsake or personally crafted gift for someone special.
Shotover Canyon Swing
At 360ft this is the world’s highest rope swing. If you’re too scared to jump you can let yourself be released from our cliff mounted platform. You’ll freefall into the canyon until the ropes pendulum you in a giant, smooth 200m arc at 150kph.
Goldfields Mining Centre
Take a step back in time - you’ll find us in the heart of the incredible Kawarau Gorge. See 100 year old gold workings, still in operation. Explore the old Chinese Village and try your hand at goldpanning! Thrill to a jetboat ride through the Gorge or relax in our friendly café with sunny gardens that are ideal for the kids!
Kawarau Gorge, Queenstown - Cromwell Highway (SH6) just a scenic 45 minute drive from Queenstown.
Serious Fun River Surfing (Summer Only)
Come Whitewater Riverboarding down the Kawarau River with the “original” Riversurfing company. We have the best-trained guides, giving our riders the ultimate river thrills since ‘89 with a 100% safety record. Guaranteed excitement, entertainment and exhilaration from ages 8 to 84!
Kids Karts and Rally Karts QueensTown
Kids Karts(Min Age ![]()
Too much fun for just the kids!
These full suspension off road karts have rack and pinion steering, all round brakes, automatic clutch and variable transmission to make for easy and fun driving. Fully adjustable to suit 8 year olds to adults. Purpose built out door track. All weather activity. Safety equipment supplied.
Go Vertical Bungy Trampoline
Min Age 3 - 103
Adults and kids alike can put some extra bounce in their day with the GO VERTICAL bungy Trampoline. Multiple bungy cords attach to your harness giving extra boost and confidence to the traditional trampoline experience. Jump up to 8 metres in the air and feel your confidence and euphoria skyrocket after your first double somersault! Absolute FUN!!
Haka Pa
Maori Village -Waterfall Park
The cultural village, show and dining experience!
Visit a traditional Maori village, or Pa, set in the stunning Waterfall Park.
Immerse yourself in the customs and culture of NZ’s past, enjoy a traditional and lively performance - get the family involved and learn some authentic dances yourselves!Enjoy a sumptuous 4 course feast of Maori and New Zealand foods, cooked hangi style.