A Week in New Zealand: Family Fun for December 24-30, 2023

Sunday, December 24: Auckland

Begin your adventure in Auckland, the vibrant city of sails. In the morning, visit the Auckland Zoo to marvel at exotic wildlife. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the beautiful Auckland Domain, surrounded by lush gardens. Spend the afternoon exploring the interactive exhibits at the Auckland Museum. In the evening, take a stroll along the Viaduct Harbour and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants.

• Auckland Zoo: $25 per adult, $12 per child | 3-4 hours
• Auckland Domain: Free admission | 2-3 hours
• Auckland Museum: $25 per adult, $10 per child | 2-3 hours
• Viaduct Harbour: Cost varies | 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your morning at The Breakfast Club, a charming café known for its delicious gourmet breakfast options. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes or savory eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For lunch, head to The Fish Market, a waterfront seafood market with numerous dining options. Enjoy a fresh seafood platter or a classic fish and chips meal. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
• In the evening, dine at Soul Bar & Bistro, a stylish waterfront restaurant offering a diverse menu of contemporary New Zealand cuisine. Try their mouthwatering grilled lamb or seafood pasta. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.

Monday, December 25: Rotorua

On Christmas Day, head to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders. Start your morning with a visit to Te Puia, where you can witness bubbling mud pools and impressive geysers. Afternoon can be spent at the Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where you can see native wildlife and even feed trout. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Maori cultural performance and a delicious hangi feast.

• Te Puia: $54 per adult, $25 per child | 2-3 hours
• Rainbow Springs Nature Park: $40 per adult, $20 per child | 2-3 hours
• Maori Cultural Performance: $120 per adult, $60 per child | 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Taupo

Travel to Taupo, a stunning lakeside town. Start your day with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Waikato River. In the afternoon, visit the Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and witness its colorful silica terraces. End the day with a relaxing dip in the natural hot pools of Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort.

• Jet Boat Ride: $120 per adult, $70 per child | 1-2 hours
• Orakei Korako Geothermal Park: $36 per adult, $14 per child | 2-3 hours
• Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort: $25 per adult, $15 per child | 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Wellington

Take a scenic drive to Wellington, the capital city. Begin your day at Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum, where interactive exhibits will fascinate the whole family. In the afternoon, explore the Wellington Zoo and get up close with various animals. Wrap up the day with a cable car ride to the picturesque Botanic Garden and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

• Te Papa Tongarewa: Free admission | 3-4 hours
• Wellington Zoo: $35 per adult, $15 per child | 2-3 hours
• Wellington Cable Car: $7 per adult, $4 per child | 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Christchurch

Take a flight to Christchurch, a city known for its vibrant art scene. Begin your day with a visit to the International Antarctic Centre, where you can experience Antarctic life firsthand. In the afternoon, explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and enjoy a relaxing punting tour along the Avon River. Spend the evening at the Margaret Mahy Playground, the largest playground in the Southern Hemisphere.

• International Antarctic Centre: $59 per adult, $25 per child | 3-4 hours
• Christchurch Botanic Gardens: Free admission | 2-3 hours
• Punting on the Avon: $30 per adult, $15 per child | 1-2 hours
• Margaret Mahy Playground: Free admission | 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Queenstown

Head to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Start your day with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River. In the afternoon, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob's Peak and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu. End the day with a relaxing stroll along the Queenstown Gardens.

• Jet Boat Ride: $129 per adult, $59 per child | 1-2 hours
• Queenstown Gondola: $44 per adult, $21 per child | 2-3 hours
• Queenstown Gardens: Free admission | 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 30: Milford Sound

Embark on a day trip to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most stunning natural wonders. Take a scenic cruise through the fjord and marvel at the towering waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and penguins. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking beauty before returning to Queenstown in the evening.

• Milford Sound Cruise: $60 per adult, $15 per child | 4-5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring New Zealand, don't miss out on the following family-friendly hidden gems and local favorites:

1. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Discover the extraordinary geothermal landscapes and colorful hot springs near Rotorua.

2. Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre: Encounter native birds and the famous white kiwi bird in this conservation sanctuary near Wellington.

3. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: Get up close with native New Zealand wildlife, including kiwis, at this Christchurch reserve.

4. Kiwi Birdlife Park: Learn about and spot native birds, including kiwis, in this conservation park located in Queenstown.

These hidden gems will provide unique experiences and create lasting memories for the whole family!

Check out KAYAK to find the best deals on flights and hotels for your New Zealand adventure!