Whether you’re heading to the snowy slopes or planning a cosy long weekend closer to home, here are some magical winter destinations to visit with your family.
North Island
Northland
The winterless north is a great destination for warm weather lovers, even in winter. Take a nature cruise through the Bay of Islands, look out for dolphins, whales and seals, and visit the Hole in the Rock (hop on at Paihia). Enjoy walks through beautiful forests, visit the Kawiti Glowworm Caves, learn about New Zealand history at the Treaty of Waitangi grounds, or walk along the beaches and enjoy a wilder winter ocean.
Auckland
With multiple museums and indoor activities, there’s something for everyone in New Zealand’s largest city. Check out:
For more active options, try indoor rock climbing at Extreme Edge, arcade games at Archie Brothers, ice-skating at Paradice, mini golf at Holey Moley, or hit the wave pool at Mount Albert Aquatic Centre.
Need to refuel? Relax at one of many family-friendly cafés serving up warm winter meals.
Rotorua
This geothermal delight is the ultimate family play zone!
- Ride the gondola and race down the luge
- Get lost in the A-Mazeing Maze
- Visit the Buried Village of Te Wairoa
- Explore geothermal wonders and hot pools
- Don’t miss the Polynesian Spa or 3D Trick Art Gallery
- Play mini golf with bunnies
- Finish the day with a family dinner at Cobb & Co.
Mt Ruapehu
There is no shortage of snow play here!
- Tūroa: the country’s highest lift
- Whakapapa: home to Happy Valley, NZ’s top beginner’s facility
- Ride the Sky Waka gondola
- Go sledding
- Visit Knoll Ridge Chalet, perched on a cliff edge of NZ’s largest active volcano
Wellington
Our capital has cosy indoor fun and nature experiences:
- Indoors: Te Papa, Capital E, Space Place, and Wellington Museum
- Outdoors: Zealandia, Staglands, Wellington Zoo, the Cable Car, or Mount Victoria for views
- Don’t miss hot chocolate at Wellington Chocolate Factory!
South Island
Christchurch
You’ll need a week to explore everything!
- Thrill-seekers: Adrenalin Forest, Mega Air, Delta Force Paintball, Adventure Park
- Wildlife lovers: Orana Park, Willowbank, Antarctic Centre
- Educational fun: Botanic Gardens, Quail Island, Canterbury Museum, Air Force Museum, Ferrymead Heritage Park, Miniature Trains
- Transport fun: Ride the tram and gondola
Lake Tekapo
Just two hours from Christchurch or Queenstown, Tekapo is alpine magic:
- Stargazing at Mount John Observatory
- Soak under the stars at Tekapo Springs
- Ski or snowboard at Roundhill Ski Field
- Ice skate with penguins or try snow tubing at the Snow Tube Park
- Book a helicopter tour over Mt Cook and the glaciers
Wānaka
A brilliant destination for curious kids:
- Explore Puzzling World’s illusions and tilt rooms
- Visit the animals at Wānaka Lavender Farm
- Stroll lakeside from Eely Point to Bremner Bay
- Try snowshoeing, tubing, or cross-country skiing at Snow Farm
Queenstown
Packed with adventure:
- Try iFLY Indoor Skydiving or the Hydro Attack Shark Ride
- Relax on The Spirit of Queenstown cruise
- Ski options:
- Coronet Peak and The Remarkables: both 20 mins away
- Cardrona: 40–50 mins, great for kids
- Treble Cone: 1.5–2 hrs for experienced skiers
Fiordland
For raw beauty and peaceful exploration:
- Discover Milford Sound: towering peaks, waterfalls, and boat tours
- Visit the Underwater Observatory
- Stop at the Mirror Lakes near Lake Te Anau on your way back
Tip!
Don’t forget to pack for both adventure and cosiness—layers, puffer jackets, woolly hats, and warm blankets for snuggly evenings and long car rides.
