North Canterbury, Family Activities

The amazing albatross is one of the most recognised sea birds in the world. With an amazing wingspan of up to 3.4 metres (the largest wingspan in the world), these majestic birds are hard to miss but are still a fairly rare sight. Thanks to the Kaikoura Albatross Encounter by boat, it is easy to visit these remarkable pelagic birds in their natural habitat.  During your (twelve passengers maximum) boat tour, you will get up close to Northern and Southern Albatross, penguins, petrels, shearwaters and many other rare and common seabirds.

The two and a half hour tour caters for ages five and up (although, if the conditions are suitable, 3-4 year olds may be admitted at the captain’s discretion) and is family friendly.

Situated against an absolutely stunning backdrop that takes in views from the alps to the ocean is a pretty special township called Kaikõura, where Whale Watch operates its tours year round.  This is NZ's whale watching capital and Whale Watch is NZ's only vessel based whale watching company that offers your family an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale in their natural environment. With a purpose built vessel, from which you will enjoy your tour you are provided with great viewing and photographic opportunities, and limited not only to viewing whales but potential encounters with NZ Fur Seals, Dusky Dolphins, Albatross and other marine life.
Note: Tour departures are weather dependent and the minimum age for children is 3 years and over.  We reserve the right to raise our minimum age requirement if we feel sea/weather conditions are not suitable for younger children

Glenstrae Farm 4 Wheeler Adventures offer an unforgettable Kaikoura off road experience that takes you through native bush, rugged terrain and rich farmland. Your expert guide will navigate from Glenstrae Farm to the Haumuri Bluffs, where you may be lucky enough to spot sunbathing fur seals.

As your Glenstrae Farm 4 Wheeler Adventures guide revs up the Yamaha Viking 6 engine, you'll be joined by other visitors on the Kaikoura quad biking adventure. As a group, you'll experience breathtaking views of the surrounding Kaikoura mountains and rugged coastline on a 2.5 hour off road tour. The Glenstrae Farm UTV tours are designed to cater to families with young children, or those looking for an exciting alternative to quad biking.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to explore the beauty of Kaikoura in a unique way, Glenstrae Farm 4 Wheeler Adventures offers the perfect choice. Book your UTV tour now and get ready to embark on an off-road adventure like no other.

Looking for family activities in Kaikoura? Dive into nature on a three-hour guided family kayaking tour in Kaikoura! This experience is the perfect chance to immerse your family on the thrills of the marine world, with a 100% guarantee of seeing New Zealand Fur Seals and chance encounters with dolphins, penguins and other marine life.

As you paddle along the picturesque Kaikoura coastline, your experienced guides will ensure that everyone, from beginners to experienced paddlers, has a safe and enjoyable experience. This Kaikoura sea kayaking tour moves at a leisurely pace, so you will have plenty of time to take snaps of the surrounding scenery and wildlife. Tours are also tailored to suit specific families' needs, and your professional guides will be right beside you throughout the experience.

Kaikoura Kayaks is renowned for its top-notch equipment and knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the area's marine life. As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, keep an eye out for playful dolphins, majestic seals, and even the occasional whale. This is an unforgettable opportunity to experience a Kaikoura kayak tour that will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime.

Don't miss out on one of the best family activities in Kaikoura. Book your guided Kaikoura sea kayaking tour for the family today and create unforgettable moments with your loved ones.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa includes relaxing rock pools, soothing sulphur pools - at varying temperatures, private pools, family pools and kids' activity areas, along with saunas and steam rooms.
The network of rock pools are linked via gentle rapids and shallow waterways with the temperature varying between 33 to 37 degrees.  The  natural water comes straight from a nearby thermal bore and is rich in minerals such as sodium, chloride, boron, calcium and carbonate.

There is also a kids' area for the little ones with two hydroslides, a dumping bucket, water fountain, cave, waterfall and lizard slide, you'll hear squeals of delight and see giggling children of all ages.  Under 3 year olds are FREE.

Pass includes:

• Use of all outdoor thermal pools
• 4 Waterslides, Lap Pool & kids Activity Area
• Family activity pool
• Private Pools/Saunas & Steam
• 4 Waterslides including New Zealand’s largest Aqua Thrill Ride
• 22 Outdoor Thermal Pools

Alpine Village Cruisers are the fun transport around Hanmer Springs! Built for 2 to 6 people you just sit back and pedal gently around the flat streets of Hanmer Springs Village. Enough storage to take a picnic and head to Hanmer Forest, or use as infant seats with seat belts.

Bains Classic Motor House specialises in classic and sports cars from all eras. Motorbikes, both modern and classic also grace the showroom floor, along with a select range of models, books, art and memorabilia. The Castle Park complex where Bains is located also has a Café and children’s play area, and is perfect for a coffee or light lunch after visiting.

The Waipara Valley Farmers market are a passionate group of growers and producers from the local Waipara Region, sharing great produce to locals and visitors alike.  All our Stallholders come from the region and offer you a delightful selection of fresh and hand made produce.  Operating every Saturday (year round) from 9am-12noon.

Weka Pass Railway is a historic rural railway that uses both vintage steam and diesel-electric locomotives on 12.8 km of scenic line through the unique limestone beauty of Weka Pass out of Waipara. The public trains run every 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month, every Sunday in January and most public holidays. Pre-schoolers travel for free and family passes are available.

Quiet roads with stunning Alpine backdrops provide easy access to the mountain bike tracks, forest and hills around Hanmer Springs Village. The forest rides are particularly suited to families - you can ride from 20 minutes to 2 hours around the weaving mountain bike tracks, and it's mostly flat.

The Oxford Farmers' Market is a friendly country Farmers' Market where the seller is the producer.  There is a wide range of meats, fruit, vegetables, flowers, fresh fish, baking, preserves, sauces, brunch and coffee from more than 25 stalls for locals and visitors alike.  Open year round, every Sunday 9am-noon.

Come and solve the mystery of the Lost Temple and be in for lots of surprises along the way or play our Gold Rush themed 18 hole mini golf course. Located on the Main Rd into Hanmer Springs. Just a 2 minute drive or 5 minute walk from the village centre.

Alpine Crazy Putt is Hanmer Springs central mini golf course. Located just past the Heritage Hotel, this course has been recently rebuilt with lots of new and exciting holes!  Stage 2 will include water features and landscaping. Watch this space!