New Zealand is a terrific family destination, with its natural attractions such as mountains and beaches; outdoor activities including hiking, snorkeling and bicycling; and myriad attractions ranging from spotting wildlife to theme parks to museums to fantasy lands. New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city, Auckland is an urban environment within 30 minutes of beaches, hiking trails and islands. Here, we take a look at the family-friendly city.
To The Beach
When it comes to beaches, there are plenty to choose from within close proximity to Auckland. The west coast beaches are less than an hour from the city but provide dramatic vistas and places to explore. Karekare Beach is one of the region’s most spectacular, and is ideal for walking and there is even the Karekare Falls, a waterfall just a few minutes’ walk inland. Another to check out is Muriwai Beach with its cliff-top trails from which you and your family may be able to spot a colony of gannets (August to March). The black-sand beaches are impressive here, too.
Island Time
With seemingly countless islands offshore, island time is easy to find during a visit to Auckland. Waiheke Island, a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown, is known for its wine, but there are plenty of ways for your family to have fun here, too. Its sandy beaches — Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi — are off of the Hauraki Gulf and idea for swimming, kayaking or even a quiet picnic. Or, hike along the trails along the island’s cliff tops, forest and beaches.
Great Barrier Island is another to visit, and attractive to families with its forests, beaches and bays. Here you can walk through the native forest to natural hot springs and a historic Kauri dam, or up Hirakimata (Mount Hobson), 2,057 feet above sea level with panoramic views. SCUBA diving, snorkeling, fishing, surfing, kayaking, mountain biking and camping are also popular activities on Great Barrier Island.
In the City
Back in the city, get the adrenaline flowing by walking on the edge of the Sky Tower nearly 630 feet off the ground. Or, if you’re even more daring, you can jump! For another leap of faith, bungee jump from the Auckland Harbor Bridge into the Waitemata Harbour, or just climb the bridge instead.
For a bit less adrenaline but still loads of fun, the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail is a terrific way to add a bit of culture into your Auckland wine country walkabout. Or, dive into the Coast to Coast Walkway and traverse the width of the country — in a day!
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedCruising
Apr 10, 2024Explore Holland America Line’s “Nieuw Amsterdam’s” Kids Club
Don’t think a cruise with Holland America Line is just for adults. Aboard the cruise line’s Nieuw Amsterdam ship, a dedicated Kids Club ensures family travelers of all ages have a good time both at sea and port.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Multigenerational
Apr 4, 20245 Eco-Friendly Properties to Stay at for Earth Month
Book family travel at one of these five eco-friendly properties around the world for Earth Month.
Multigenerational
Apr 2, 2024Princess Cruises Offers Accessible, Affordable Multigenerational Travel
According to a National Tourism Association study, multigenerational vacations continue to be a popular choice for family travel, with about half of all vacations taken by parents and grandparents considered multigenerational. Additionally, 45 percent of all leisure travelers brought kids on their trips last year.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Multigenerational
Mar 28, 2024Unforgettable Family Adventures Await at These 4 Multigenerational Destinations
The best type of family travel is when the whole family gets involved. For your next family trip, consider these multigenerational destinations and resorts.
ShareThis