Spring has sprung, school's out, and the kids have energy to burn. Time to spring into action! We've rounded up the best school holiday experiences across Aotearoa, from thrill-seeking adventures to hands-on fun, so you can skip the planning stress and dodge the dreaded "I'm bored!"
Spring is the perfect excuse to get outdoors, and what better way to take in nature than soaring through the treetops? From Auckland to Queenstown and everywhere in between, Everything New Zealand has a range of ziplining adventures to choose from. With options to suit all ages and bravery levels, it's a thrill the whole family can share.
Soak up the spring sunshine with a day out on the water, keeping your eyes peeled for some of the ocean's most magnificent creatures. With Whale Watching cruises departing from Auckland and Kaikōura, there are plenty of chances to spot whales, dolphins and more in their natural habitat. Along the way, expert guides share fascinating facts about marine life, turning your adventure into a lesson the kids will actually want to pay attention to. Who said learning can't be fun?
Rainy day? No worries! With locations in Auckland and Queenstown, Odyssey Sensory Maze is the perfect way to turn a gloomy day into a great one. Packed with uniquely themed rooms full of lights, sounds and surprises, this immersive indoor adventure sparks the imagination and delivers fun for all ages.
Looking to mix learning with fun? Zoos and aquariums offer the best of both worlds. Meet sharks and penguins at Kelly Tarlton's in Auckland, dive into marine discovery at the National Aquarium of New Zealand in Napier, or get hands-on with farm animals at the Agrodome in Rotorua. Further south, Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch brings you up close to exotic animals, while the Kiwi Park in Queenstown offers the chance to spot our beloved national bird. With so many incredible creatures to discover, the kids will be talking about it long after the holidays end.
Exercise, sightseeing and adventure all rolled into one? Kayaking ticks every box. Paddling out on the water is the perfect way for kids to burn off some of that endless holiday energy, while the whole family takes in stunning coastal views. With kayaking tours from Auckland to Kaikōura, there's plenty of choice for all ages and abilities, and you might even spot some local wildlife along the way.
However, you spend it, we hope this spring school holiday is full of great days and adventures. Looking for more? We've got a whole list of activities for the whole family to enjoy.