Explore Family-Friendly Destinations from Christchurch to Fiordland
South Island family tours & activities offer a rich mix of adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty that makes travelling with kids exciting and easy. Start in Christchurch, where families can enjoy scenic rides on the city gondola, hop aboard the historic tram, or glide gently down the Avon River on a punting tour. Head to Akaroa for dolphin encounters or Kaikōura for world-renowned whale watching tours, both ideal for animal-loving children.
Inland, Hanmer Springs offers jet boating thrills and relaxing thermal pools, while Queenstown delivers family-friendly ziplining, luge rides, and scenic lake cruises. Dunedin’s Otago Peninsula gives wildlife lovers the chance to spot seals and penguins in their natural habitat. No trip is complete without a journey to Fiordland National Park, where cruising Milford or Doubtful Sound lets you experience majestic landscapes and maybe even spot dolphins along the way.
Outdoor Family Adventures Across the West Coast, Nelson, and Marlborough
For families who love the outdoors, the South Island’s west and northern regions are packed with unforgettable experiences. On the West Coast, take a guided walk on Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, explore glowworm-lit limestone caves in Charleston, or enjoy reflective photo ops at Lake Matheson. These nature-based activities are fun, accessible, and perfect for kids with curious minds.
In the Nelson Tasman region, families can kayak along the Abel Tasman Coast Track or cycle part of the Great Taste Trail, enjoying golden beaches and native bush. Over in Marlborough, cruise or paddle your way through Queen Charlotte Sound, then stretch your legs on the Queen Charlotte Track — a family-friendly hike with stunning coastal views. With so many diverse landscapes and well-organised tour options, South Island tours for families deliver the perfect mix of freedom, fun, and flexibility.
