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If you are planning a family holiday to New Zealand, you are likely wondering which island is best for New Zealand travel with kids.
This depends on the ages of your children, and whether there are any specific activities on their must-do list.
Both islands are packed full of options to suit all travelers. However, the North and South Island are extremely different despite belonging to the same country. The pace and activities available on your family holiday will depend on which island you choose.
The North Island is best for young families, Lord of the Rings fans, and families looking for a beach getaway.
Meanwhile, the South Island is best for active families, outdoor lovers, and travelers who want to spend a week exploring from one base.
Read on for more details about how you can decide which island is best for your family’s New Zealand travel with kids.
The North Island is defined by its peaceful, rolling farmland, with enticing beaches lining the coast and unusual highlight such as volcanoes and glowworm caves in the center.
Families interested in Maori culture, relaxing beach getaways, cave exploration, hobbits, volcanoes, geysers, and sulphur springs should head straight to the North Island.
If you want to see the best of New Zealand’s North Island with kids, these are our top holiday package suggestions:
The South Island is shaped by its spine of mountains–the great Southern Alps.
With breathtaking mountain vistas around every corner, the South Island is the place for your family to discover glaciers, braided rivers, turquoise lakes, and New Zealand’s famous fiords.
The South Island is also New Zealand’s adventure hub, with options ranging from outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and skiing to adrenaline sports like skydiving and jet-boating.
Active teens will love the variety on offer on the South Island, and with a hundred different options to choose from in places like Queenstown, they’ll never grow bored.
If you want to see the best of New Zealand’s South Island with kids, these are our top holiday package suggestions:
Generally, the North Island makes a good introduction to the country for families with young children (toddlers and up), while the South Island is packed with enough exciting activities and jaw-dropping nature to entertain even the most difficult teens.
Finally, whichever island you choose, plan to return to New Zealand someday to visit the other island. Both are extremely different and equally rewarding, and your children will appreciate different highlights as they grow older.
For more information on family travel, you may wish to read the following posts:
Browse our full range of New Zealand family holiday packages here.
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