A magical place to go sightseeing/snorkeling/scuba diving. It is a marine reserve with tropical fish and is steeped in rich history – an amazing place to spend the day – Michelle H

The colour of the water is amazing! – Miriam B

These crystal-clear freshwater lakes are the perfect spot for your family to enjoy camping, swimming and other water sports, cycling, walking, or just relaxing.

We had a wonderful holiday round the Kauri Coast … visited the Koutu Boulders which can only be reached when the tides out – Cyn S

These concretion balls up to 3 metres in diameter have been estimated to have taken up to 5 million years to be created.

The gannet colony is close by and there are sometimes seals on the beach – Nicki W

This spectacular coastline is perfect for a family visit – it’s home to a colony of gannets plus a popular surf spot.

The best strawberries, giant slides, trampoline and train rides for kids and whole family to enjoy. We love to go here every summer – Nilofa F

Historical site and amazing walk through native bush leading to waterfall. Wonderful family adventure to go on just pack a picnic. This is our little gem we found in our backyard. – Juscinta H

Stingrays at Dive Tatapouri: My daughter and I loved it – we were able to pat and feed the (wild) stingrays as they swam past or brushed up on our legs wanting a pat. so cool they are wild stingrays that have taken an interest in us as we have them – Nae Nae

The Karangahake Gorge is awesome with walks/bike rides, the old train tunnel is cool to walk thru – Kim G

A combination of gold mining history, natural beauty, and easy walks makes Karangahake Gorge an interesting family day out.

An offshore bird sanctuary where you see endangered birds living freely, a seal colony, volcanic activity including a hot water beach! And it’s just absolutely stunning – Emmeline H

Such a great safe swimming spot for littlies – Alana

Just 4km north of Napier, Eskdale Park has mature trees, a playground, picnic tables, toilets, and a cricket pitch, plus the pretty Esk River. (Please note: Due to damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle, this park may be closed.)

Love exploring the Kawaroa rock pools in New Plymouth. Right next to the foreshore cycle/walking path and aquatic center – Sarah P

If you’re in Whanganui, I highly recommend a visit to Paloma Gardens, which is a 15 min drive from the city. A garden of significance, you could spend all discovering and exploring. Fun for little ones and grandparents alike. – Angela G

You can spot both seal colonies and the South Island. – Michelle L

Walk from Owhiro Bay to the Red Rocks (Pari-whero) to check out the red-coloured rocks that were formed 200 million years ago and the nearby seal colony.

Such a good experience, lots to see for everyone and it’s free entry! – Amanda H

The national museum for the RNZAF, located on the former air base at Wigram has historic aircraft, a simulator and lots of other historical displays.

The rocks are amazing and great to take the family through. – Catherine T

Explore the spectacular limestone formations that were formed during the Oligocene age, 30-40 million years ago.

Thyme covered rocky paths and cliffs surrounded by vineyards and orchards. – Carrie

This 3.5km loop gold mine walk in beautiful Central Otago takes in dams, water races, rock tailings and caves left untouched since the last of the goldminers.

We went … on an argo wildlife tour. It was fabulous. Penguins, albatross and seals!! Good for all ages – Bronwyn E

Tour the beautiful Otago Peninsula and see penguins, fur seals, and albatross in their natural environment.

Have you ever been on an island in a lake, on an island in a lake, on an island in the ocean? It’s a mouthful! Cause that is exactly what the amazing Mou Waho Island is, in amazing Wānaka! It’s definitely worth exploring! It’s breathtaking. – Becky K