Winter in New Zealand doesn’t mean hibernation – it means rugging up and heading out. Whether you’re basking in beachside sun at Ōhope or crunching snow underfoot in Queenstown, winter is an incredible time to explore Aotearoa with kids. If you’re a travel-loving family or just looking to kick ‘bored’ to the curb these winter holidays, you’re in the right place. Read on for the ultimate list of kid-friendly winter activities in New Zealand near Hampshire Holiday Parks. All you have to do is wrangle the kids, pack the snacks and decide on an adventure. So, if you’re looking to fill the winter school holidays with fresh air and fun, here’s your go-to guide.
ŌHOPE / WHAKATĀNE (Bay of Plenty)
Otarawairere Bay Walk
A hidden gem perfect for little adventurers. The walk winds through native bush to a quiet cove with rock pools and driftwood – the ultimate low-tide treasure hunt.
Whakatāne Heads & Wairere Falls
A short walk with massive payoff – clifftop views and one of the North Island’s most underrated waterfalls.
Mataatua Wharenui
One of the most meaningful cultural experiences you can share with your tamariki. Step inside the “house that came home” and hear stories that bring Māori heritage to life.
Ōhiwa Harbour Birdwatching
Swap screens for binoculars and see who can spot the royal spoonbill first. It’s peaceful, educational and way more fun than it sounds.
Beach Treasure Hunts
Ōhope Beach is the kind of place where kids can roam free – building driftwood forts, searching for shells, or sketching giant artworks in the sand.
Stay: Ōhope Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
KAIKŌURA (Canterbury)
Whale Watching
Few things beat seeing a massive whale tail slap the ocean – and Kaikōura is one of the best spots in the world for it. Dress warm and bring snacks!
Seal Colony Walk
Easy for little legs and full of wildlife, this coastal trail ends with dozens of snoozing seals and (if you’re lucky) playful pups.
Kaikōura Museum
Part history, part natural science, and all kinds of interactive – this small-town museum punches above its weight.
Fyffe House
A bright pink time capsule from Kaikōura’s early days, Fyffe House is the town’s oldest surviving building – and it’s literally built on whale bones! Step inside to explore restored rooms, fascinating exhibits on whaling history, and spooky tales of ghostly sightings. It’s quirky, educational, and just the right amount of eerie for curious kids and history-loving adults.
Fish & Chips by the Beach
No fancy dress required. Just salty chips, sea breeze, and sandy feet – the Kiwi way.
Stay: Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park
QUEENSTOWN / ARROWTOWN (Otago)
Coronet Peak or The Remarkables Snow Play
You don’t have to ski to enjoy the slopes. Snowball fights, sledding, and snowmen await – plus chairlift rides with epic views.
Skyline Gondola & Luge
A gondola ride to Queenstown’s best lookout followed by a downhill luge race. It’s adrenaline and laughter in equal measure.
Queenstown Ice Arena
Twirl, fall, laugh, repeat – ice skating under twinkly lights is always a family winner.
Arrowtown River Trail
One of the most beautiful kid-friendly winter walks in New Zealand. Crisp air, golden trees, and easy terrain.
Lakes District Museum
Discover gold rush history, old schoolhouses, and hands-on fun in this seriously underrated museum.
Stay: Hampshire Holiday Parks – Queenstown Lakeview or Hampshire Holiday Parks – Arrowtown
WĀNAKA / GLENDHU BAY (Otago)
Puzzling World
Mind-bending illusions, leaning towers and a giant maze. Rainy day = sorted.
Wānaka Lavender Farm
Wintertime means no blooms, but there’s still plenty to see – think alpacas, lavender hot chocolate, and friendly farm vibes.
Rob Roy Glacier Track
Swing bridges, waterfalls, and a glacier finale. Best for older kids or adventurous families.
Cardrona Ski Fields
A one-stop winter wonderland – with ski lessons, snow tubing, and fireside treats.
That Wānaka Tree & Lakefront Walk
Snap a photo of the most famous tree in NZ and let the kids burn off energy skipping stones and riding scooters along the lake.
Stay: Hampshire Holiday Parks – Wānaka and Hampshire Holiday Parks – Glendhu Bay
Planning Your Kid-Friendly Winter Escape in New Zealand?
Whether your idea of family fun is hunting waterfalls, building snowmen, or sipping tea with alpacas, Hampshire Holiday Parks make the perfect base. Cosy cabins, powered sites, and heaps of family-friendly extras await.
Book Your Winter Holiday Now and turn the chilly season into your family’s next great adventure.
