Steeped in natural beauty and rich culture, New Zealand is the perfect playground for a family adventure. Its ancient glaciers, uninhabited islands, and fossil forests tell tales of Māori myths and legends. Here, there are plenty of chances for exploration while fueling that childlike sense of wonder we all possess. I plan travel for a living, and I’ve seen firsthand how tailored trips to New Zealand can be thrilling experiences for the whole family. Here’s how to plan yours.
North Island
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New Zealand’s North Island is smaller than its counterpart, South Island, but much more populous. Auckland, the largest city in the country, is a scenic city with a diverse, exciting food scene, and it’s the perfect home base from which to explore the rest of the island.
Along the east coast, the subtropical Bay of Islands is home to a large population of the indigenous Māori people. Travelers can learn about their culture and even take part in a variety of traditional experiences, like hāngī feasts, sharing myths around the fire, or fishing from waka (canoes). While you’re there, the east coast’s beaches are white, sandy, and perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
On the western side of North Island, you’ll find the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you can take a boat through a network of magical chambers to see thousands of glowworms native to New Zealand. Other adventures include snorkeling, surfing, and even discovering shipwreck sites with archaeologists. Travel agencies like Pelorus can make your trip even more special by providing you with exclusive access to experiences like kayaking with a marine biologist or staying at exclusive properties on private beaches or vineyards.
South Island
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The best way to see South Island is to by exploring the wilderness with expert guides. For instance, travelers can go on expeditions through the Alps led by esteemed mountaineers, or for the littler ones, try scavenger hunts and beginner orienteering lessons.
Queenstown, considered the “Adventure Capital of the World,” hosts an array of outdoor activities, like paragliding, mountain biking, white water rafting, and fly fishing. It’s also close to some of the Southern Hemisphere’s premier hiking trails, from Glenorchy Walkway, which is entirely flat and perfect if you’re traveling with small children or seniors, to Roy’s Peak, which is notoriously difficult but rewarding.
Make sure to experience the island’s dramatic landscape from multiple vantage points: the air, the ground, the water, and below the surface. This can involve taking a helicopter, biking, kayaking, and scuba diving, and it’ll give you every possible perspective on New Zealand, making your trip truly unforgettable.
When to Go
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The summer season in New Zealand, from December to February, is ideal for outdoor adventures. On the other hand, during the spring season, from September to November, the weather is milder and the landscapes are in bloom. Plus, since spring is a shoulder season, crowds will be thinner for a more peaceful experience.
Jimmy Carroll is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in adventure trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Carroll by contacting him at [email protected].
