The best family-friendly activities in South Island for parents and kids (Updated October 2026)

Half-Day Queenstown Photography Tour
Half day tour from Queenstown to Skippers Canyon with an experienced landscape photographer. You will learn how to take beautiful landscape images using your own...
$218

Okarito Nature Tour
Embark on the Ōkārito Nature Tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours and explore New Zealand's South Westland. Just 20 minutes from Franz Josef Glacier, the...
$69

This full-day Marlborough experience takes you across the Wairau Plains into the picturesque sea port of Havelock, where you can stop to explore and enjoy...
$209

Embark on the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter whale watching tour for a unique wildlife and scenic adventure. Fly over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and Hikurangi Marine...
$931

See the land where The Lord of the Rings trilogy were filmed. After a complimentary hotel pickup, you will arrive and meet your helicopter pilot....
$727

Get the cameras ready for one of the best glacier experiences in New Zealand. Climb up the Franz Josef Glacier, crossing the main divide at...
$246

This small group Franz Josef Heli Hike Adventure offers a unique glacier experience, including a scenic helicopter flight, lunch, and drinks. You'll fly from Franz...
$910

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. This two-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via...
$332

3 Hour in Wanaka Fishing Charters
Wanaka fishing charters offer a unique and interesting experience for several reasons: 1. Stunning Scenery: Lake Wanaka is set in the picturesque Southern Alps, providing...
$187

This two day small group adventure showcases the dramatic contrasts of the South Island, from the rugged rainforests and glaciers of the West Coast to...
$332

Join our exclusive small-group tour for up to 8 people, designed specifically for cruise ship passengers arriving at Lyttelton Port in Christchurch. Visit Akaroa and...
$331

Private guided tour includes lunch, transport, and a local guide to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. This tour doesn't require minimum numbers. It is suitable for individuals,...
$250

Explore the beautiful alpine setting of Arthur's Pass National Park on this shore excursion from Lyttelton Port via guided coach, including time for lunch (own...
$192

Godley Head is an exciting and wild place at the far end of the Port Hills. From Godley Head, you will be treated to uninterrupted...
$183

Enjoy a helicopter flight to one of our region’s world-renowned wineries to enjoy beautiful food and award-winning wines in the magnificent locations of North Canterbury...
$532

Fly from Christchurch to view the highest mountain in New Zealand, Aoraki Mount Cook—the training ground of Sir Edmund Hillary. Viewing the Canterbury plains, lakes,...
$1,800

A 2.5 hour shore excursion which combines a guided local tour of Akaroa township and harbours with a tour of a working sheep farm. After...
$66

Immerse yourself in the wonder of the night sky with a guided stargazing tour in Twizel. Use powerful telescopes to explore the Milky Way, distant...
$68

Private Skippers Canyon tour with the most experienced 4 wheel drive guide in Queenstown, having over 30 years commercial Skippers Canyon driving experience. • Private...
$226

West Coast Full Day Tour
This tour offers the best of the central West Coast including the most seen hot spots and all in a day! Perfect if you have...
$212

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Franz Josef Glacier with this incredible adventure designed for those short on time but big on exploration. Begin your...
$411

