New Zealand may not seem like the most likely destination for a family holiday, but we guarantee there’s unlimited enjoyment to be had there for both kids and grown ups. We’ve broken down the best regions to visit with children as well as things to see and do while you’re there.
New Zealand fact sheet
Flights One and two stop flights available from Dublin to various locations in new Zealand including Wellington, Queenstown, Auckland and Christchurch. Flights start from €1,102.00 pp with Lufthansa.com.
Currency New Zealand Dollar
Weather New Zealand’s seasons differ from Ireland as our winter is their warmest period. January and February would be the hottest months while June to August are there coldest months but temperatures still average at 14 degrees at this time. Therefore, it’s best to travel between December and March for peak sunshine.
Where should we go?
Wellington
The New Zealand Capital is a great base for visiting families as the city means transport and getting from A to B is easy and there are tons of things to see and do nearby. As well as being compact and urban, Wellington is unique in that it is also host to a waterfront promenade as well as several beaches in close proximity. Popular attractions include the famous Wellington Cable Cars which journeys from Lambton Quay to Wellington Botanic Gardens, as well as New Zealand’s National Museum.
Queenstown
Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown has a big adventure sports reputation. Bungee jumping, hiking and water sports are just some of the amazing activities dared here, as well as skiing in the Southern Alps during the colder season. Some scenes from the iconic Lord of the Rings movie franchise were also filmed here, making it a must-see for any fans of the series.
Christchurch
Ideal for those who wish to spend their holiday among nature, Christchurch is known for its brilliant outdoor activities. An ideal base for those wishing to see Canterbury during their holiday, skiing, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, surfing and rowing are just some of the activities sought out by visitors to this area. The South Island also allows tourists to see incredible sea creatures such as whales and dolphins.
Bay of Plenty
If, for your family, it wouldn’t be a holiday without some seaside splendour, Bay of Plenty may be the spot for you. With dazzling beaches and coastlines, unforgettable volcanic scenery and a wide variety of activities such as boat trips, surfing, water sports and dolphin watching, there is no shortage of fun to be had here. Well equipped for tourists, there are plenty of shopping and dining areas in this location for you to enjoy as well.
Auckland
This is one of New Zealand’s North Island’s major cities and is centred around harbours, an extinct volcano and the seaside. This built up area has no shortage of urban essentials like restaurants, cafés and parks. Boat rides and yachts are sure to be enjoyed here too. Popular sites include the Sky Tower, which offers panoramic views of the entire city, the Auckland War Museum and Rangitoto Island.
