Family Fun in New Zealand
New Zealand is the epitome of cool, fun and wild, making it the perfect haven for families to spread their wings and embrace the exhilarating outdoor adventures that ooze from its core. From the cosmopolitan Auckland and turquoise waters in the Bay of Islands in the North, to the volcanic wonderland of Rotorua and buzzing hub of Queenstown in the South Islands, this itinerary makes an epic trip with an abundance of experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
Journey highlights
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Lean into limitless and release your inner adrenalin junkie on this energetic, active and outdoor-led itinerary
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Sail around the outstanding Bay of Islands on a luxury yacht and uncover hidden coves, secluded beaches and marvelous wildlife
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Indulge in an array of luxury lodges, self-catered villas and international hotels that will pamper you and your family throughout
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Dive headfirst into Kaikoura’s Pacific Coast for an epic array of marine life encounters, such as dolphin spotting and whale watching
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
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- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
The climate in New Zealand is incredibly pleasant, with warm and balmy summers and cold crisp winter months with wonderful clear, blue skies. The warmer high-season months of November to April are perfect for outdoor exploration. The colder months of June to August are the best time to ski.
Both North and South Islands are drier on the east coast, rather than on the west, where mountain ranges act as a trap for the moisture-rich winds from the Tasman Sea. It is also worth remembering that it is usually a few degrees cooler on the South Island than the North Island and as New Zealand has a maritime climate, the weather can change rapidly.
Itinerary
Auckland, New Zealand
Your adventure begins in Auckland and you’ll be located in the heart of this vibrant city staying at the dazzling Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbor. Feeling fresh after your flight, head out and explore the neighboring areas on foot. Stroll down to the harbor and discover the many lively waterside cafés and restaurants that line the parade. Embark on a short ferry ride across the harbor and investigate the relaxed bay side village of Devonport. For views far and wide over the Hauraki Gulf, scramble to the top of the magnificent Sky Tower and be amazed at the 360 panoramas of the many islands that dot the landscape.
Accommodation: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbor ( 1 night )
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
The awe-inspiring Bay of Islands located just a short flight from Auckland is your next port of call. Stunning turquoise waters, secluded beaches and an abundance of historic sites, Bay of Islands offers you the chance to learn about the history of the country and sets the scene for the rest of your Kiwi adventure. Staying at the trendy Eagles Nest you’ll have the ultimate private villa experience. With cutting edge design, plenty of space and your own private pool, the villas are perfect for families and provide a high level of luxury that will leave you feeling revived and energised.
During your stay there will be a plethora of activities for the whole family to enjoy. From sea kayaking, parasailing and sky diving to water skiing, scuba diving and snorkeling, your hearts will be left racing and adrenalin pumping. For a truly unforgettable experience, we will arrange an enthralling afternoon on a luxury private yacht. Charter sailing on ‘Cool Change’, you’ll be whisked to the lesser-known bays and beaches. Keep an eye out for the varied wildlife that live here and swim until all your hearts are content before refuelling the whole gang with a delicious lunch prepared for you on board.
Auckland, New Zealand
Head back to Auckland for the night. Take a stroll along the west coast beaches or simply make use of the hotel’s pampering spa facilities and get a good rest before picking up your hire car and continuing your exploration of the North Island.
Nelson, New Zealand
Fly to Nelson via Wellington and collect your car hire, before setting off on the next leg of your family adventure. You’ll stay at Te Koi the Lodge at Bronte, an exclusive luxury accommodation neighboring the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Home to golden beaches and miles of impressive walking trails through the native New Zealand forests, this is the sunniest area of New Zealand and provides endless activities for everyone to enjoy. Burn off that excess energy through Bronte’s meandering gardens, take a splash in the heated swimming pool or play a family game of tennis. We believe that the best way to explore this wonderful expanse is on the water, so grab your kayaks provided by the lodge and plunge into the sea for an enthralling family escapade. Paddle the shoreline, get close to the local cormorants and if you’re lucky, spot dolphins and seals as they gracefully swim by.
Accommodation: Te Koi the Lodge at Bronte ( 2 nights )
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Wilderness, wildlife and wonder await. Drive to the east coast of New Zealand and embrace the charming coastal settlement of Kaikoura. Known as ‘the marine Serengeti’ of New Zealand, Kaikoura is home to a wealth of sea life just waiting for your family to expose. From gigantic sperm whales and entertaining dolphins to playful fur seals and striking orca. Staying at Hapuku Lodge, you’ll have an epic glimpse of the wonderous coastline, as each luxurious lodge sits at the foot of South Island's spectacular Kaikoura Ranges overlooking the rugged Pacific Coast. This is the perfect destination for those with an adventurous streak and we have included a selection of wildlife encounters that you won’t want to miss.
A Dolphin Encounter off the coast of Kaikoura is top on the list. Lean into limitless and jump into the ocean to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat. Or, for those that prefer to stay dry, simply gaze in awe as you watch these mesmerizing mammals glide and leap effortlessly alongside your boat. We have also included a whale watching experience which we know the whole family will relish. Set out to sea in search for New Zealand’s magnificent marine giants. Expect to see Sperm Whales, Orca and migrating Humpbacks breaching the surface waters in between hunting squid in the Hikurangi Trench.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Return your hire car in the neighboring city of Christchurch and catch a short flight to your final destination, New Zealand’s energetic capital city. Queenstown is a true paradise for teenage families and home to an abundance of bucket-list experiences. From canyon swimming to bungee jumping, jet boating to river rafting, you’ll have plenty of adrenalin-pumped activities to choose from. You’ll stay at the charming Sofitel Queenstown which is centrally located and just a stone’s throw away from the city lake and central plaza. All rooms and suites here are perfect for families traveling together thanks to the comfortable beds, double spa baths, underfloor heating, surround sound audio visual systems and extraordinary French amenities.
Round off your New Zealand adventure with a Fly Nature Cruise and Helicopter flight to Milford Sound. You’ll be driven to Queenstown Airport where your chopper awaits. Take to the skies and absorb the sheer magnitude of New Zealand’s jaw-dropping scenery as you float over alpine meadows, glimmering lakes, snow-capped mountains and dense forest valleys. You’ll land at Milford Sound and board a specialist boat that’ll whisk you away to the Tasman Sea. Relax as you cruise past outstanding natural beauty and extensive wildlife with expert commentary from the onboard guide. Marvel at thundering waterfalls, spot penguins diving in and out of the shore and hold onto these precious moments as your family voyage draws to a close.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 2025 | $19,900 | $5,000 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | $19,900 | $5,000 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | $22,000 | $5,500 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | $22,000 | $5,500 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | $24,100 | $6,000 | plan your trip |
| December 2025 | $24,100 | $6,000 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | $24,100 | $6,000 | plan your trip |
| February 2026 | $24,100 | $6,000 | plan your trip |
| March 2026 | $22,000 | $5,500 | plan your trip |
| April 2026 | $22,000 | $5,500 | plan your trip |
| May 2026 | $22,000 | $5,500 | plan your trip |
| June 2026 | $19,900 | $5,000 | plan your trip |
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July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$19,900
Deposit from*$5,000
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$19,900
Deposit from*$5,000
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,000
Deposit from*$5,500
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,000
Deposit from*$5,500
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$24,100
Deposit from*$6,000
-
December 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$24,100
Deposit from*$6,000
-
January 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$24,100
Deposit from*$6,000
-
February 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$24,100
Deposit from*$6,000
-
March 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,000
Deposit from*$5,500
-
April 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,000
Deposit from*$5,500
-
May 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,000
Deposit from*$5,500
-
June 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$19,900
Deposit from*$5,000
- plan your trip
Experiences in this tour
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![Shotover Jet]()
View ExperienceShotover Jet (Shared)
Nothing you've experienced will have you prepared for the thrill and excitement of a Shotover Jet ride! From the moment the accelerator hits the floor your adrenaline hits the roof as you speed in mere centimeters of water along the famous Shotover River.
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![Whale watching in Kaikoura]()
View ExperienceWhale watching in Kaikoura - Shared
Take to the seas off the coast of Kaikoura to search for New Zealand's marine giants. Sperm Whales, Orca and migrating Humpbacks all frequent the inky depths hunting for squid in the Hikurangi Trench.
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![Private Wine Tour - Private Boutique Wine Tour of Central Otago]()
View ExperiencePrivate Boutique Wine Tour of Central Otago
Customized exactly to your needs and wishes, this privately guided winery tour is designed especially for the discerning wine lover in mind.
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![Te Puia - Te Puia Daytime Experience]()
View ExperienceTe Puia Daytime Experience (Shared)
Home to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Te Puia is a cultural center just 5-minutes from the center of Rotorua. Immerse yourself in Maori culture and visit the Pohutu Geyser during your visit to the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley.
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/791387-te-puia-te-puia-daytime-experience.jpeg)
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning your vacation.
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