Family friendly
MAKING HOLIDAY MEMORIES FOR ALL THE FAMILY
Great holidays make great memories, and family adventures abound on the West Coast. Find family thrills, explore nature’s wonders and share immersive educational escapades together.
North to south, the West Coast is chocka with cool family activities and adventures for youngsters of all ages and abilities. From camping holidays and bonfires on the beach to thrills on land, water and in the air, the Coast’s great outdoors is made for family fun.
FAMILY ADVENTURES
Cycle the trails, zip across a gorge, jet boat, whitewater raft or paddle a kayak, walk on ice, explore muddy trails and go deep underground on adventures that all the family can join in.
Start with New Zealand’s most family-friendly cycle (and walking) trails: the Kawatiri (a series of short rides between Westport and Charleston) and the multi-day Wilderness Trail (Greymouth to Ross) with varied sections for shorter and longer day rides.
HISTORY & NATURE FOR KIDS
See and experience nature in action. Walk or zip line through the rainforest treetops, encounter rare and precious wildlife, take a guided walking or kayaking tour into a wildlife sanctuary.
Learn about colourful West Coast history on a fun visit to a heritage site or living museum. Experience early school days, ride a steam train or pan for gold at Shantytown’s replica pioneer village, visit Tohu Whenua heritage sites telling stories of historical and cultural significance.
FAMILY GET-AWAYS
Endless beaches and beautiful, wild lakes set the scene for relaxed family times. Create precious memories holidaying by the water: camping, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, learning to surf, sandcastles and bonfires on the beach. Explore further on some of New Zealand’s best walking and cycle trails – options for all ages and leg sizes.
Go on a ‘treasure hunt’ for natural wonders like tiny, surreal blue mushrooms found on the forest floor, giant carnivorous snails and other curious wildlife, fossick for pounamu (greenstone) pebbles on the beach and gold in the hills.
