By: Sarah Keller
Few countries can rival New Zealand for a family road trip, and the South Island in particular is extremely noteworthy.
This is a place where incredible scenery and high-octane adventures are at every turn, while charming small towns offer more than you would expect at first glance.
When you’ve got kids along for the ride, it’s important to plan ahead, especially given how many sites and points of interest can be visited in Te Waipounamu.
That is why we’ve put together this guide to family-friendly stops for your South New Zealand road trip. From wildlife encounters to fairy-tale-esque encounters, here are the most compelling places you need to know about.
Car Hire for Your Journey
If you are travelling from overseas, or didn’t bring a vehicle over from the North Island, you’ll need to procure yourself a reliable car before hitting the open road.
Thankfully, most of the major rental companies, including Enterprise Rent-A-Car, have offices throughout the South Island, predominantly at airport locations.
So, regardless of whether you’re after a roomy SUV or a comfortable sedan, you should have no problem picking up a vehicle to suit your budget and needs.
Family Friendly Stops
Once you’ve got your car, you’ll be able to plan a route of where you can go. Below are eight of the places we most recommend visiting on your South New Zealand road trip.
1. Christchurch
Most visitors to the South Island fly into Christchurch, so this is a great place to pick up your vehicle. Before you head off to visit other parts of the island, though, make sure you visit the Margaret Mahy Playground. It is one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and features plenty of massive slides, water play areas, and climbing structures and flying foxes that will entertain the kids for hours.
You should also grab some picnic food to enjoy by the river in Hagley Park, and even though you might have a car, the iconic Christchurch Tram is a great way to explore the city. If it’s a nice day, riding on the electric punt boats at the Botanic Gardens is a lot of fun.
2. Kaikōura
Kaikōura is a coastal town that is famous for its whale-watching tours. The sight of a giant sperm whale breaching the water is something your kids (and you!) will never forget, so it’s definitely worth booking an excursion there.
When you get hungry, stop at one of the many seafood caravans along the beachfront to enjoy crayfish treat (the term Kaikōura literally means “meal of crayfish”). Additionally, take a stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway where you may spot seals lazing about on the rocks below.
3. Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs is the ultimate family stop for younger ones who want to play. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa has kid-friendly pools, waterslides, and even a lazy river, which is the perfect way to relax after a day of driving.
The town is also home to several classic sweet shops if you want to treat the kids, while the nearby Hanmer Forest has a network of easy walking trails and mountain biking tracks that are suitable for kids.
4. Tekapo
Located in the Mackenzie Basin, Lake Tekapo is as pretty as a postcard. It’s well worth the drive down here because your kids will love splashing around in the Tekapo Springs pools or bouncing on the giant inflatable water park in summer.
Once the sun sets, head to the Mount John Observatory or simply lie a blanket down and stargaze. Tekapo is part of a Dark Sky Reserve, so the night skies are seriously next level. Just a heads up though, you’ll need to wrap up warm.
5. Queenstown
You might think Queenstown is just for adrenaline junkies. But you would be wrong. It is also packed with tons of things to do for families.
For instance, you can ride the Skyline Gondola up to Bob’s Peak to take in incredible views, then, if you have the stomach for it, whizz back down on the Luge.
There is a mini golf, a lakeside playground, and jet boating for thrill-seeking teens. At the same time, younger kids will love a steamboat cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw.
6. Arrowtown
While it is just 20 minutes from Queenstown, visiting Arrowtown is like stepping into a gold rush-era movie set. The Lakes District Museum provides you with a fascinating insight into life in the 1800s, while the kids will love panning for gold in the Arrow River — you never know your luck!
When you are hungry, the legendary pies at the Arrowtown Bakery are a must. There are also several cute shops to browse, where you might pick up some cool souvenirs.
7. Dunedin
Beautiful Dunedin, at the tip of the Otago Peninsula, is known for its Edwardian and Victorian architecture, and Māori and Scottish heritage.
No visit here is complete without checking out the Royal Albatross Centre, where you can see the world’s only mainland breeding colony of these majestic birds. Additionally, you should head out to the Otago Peninsula to spot seals, penguins, and sea lions.
Another great spot to visit is the fairy-tale Larnach Castle, which is the only castle in New Zealand. If time and energy permit, the challenge of walking up Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world, is one everyone should accept!
Have you visited New Zealand’s South Island? Share your stories and advice with the Frayed Passport community!
About the Author
Sarah Keller is the Content Specialist at Visiting.com.au. From Sydney, Australia, Sarah specialises in tech, finance, and travel writing. She loves staying up to date with industry news so she can bring well-researched, timely, and accurate information to her readers.
Featured image by David Maunsell on Unsplash
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