Family-Friendly Adventures in , Canterbury!

Geraldine

Why Visit?

Day 1: Explore Geraldine"s Natural Beauty

Morning: Begin your Geraldine adventure with a visit to the lush Peel Forest Park. Drive about 22 kilometers north of Geraldine via SH79. Families can enjoy easy walking tracks such as the Big Tree Walk, home to giant kahikatea trees. The forest is a great spot for bird watching, so keep an eye out for native species like the kereru (wood pigeon) and the fantail.

Afternoon: After a picnic lunch amidst nature, head back towards Geraldine to visit the Geraldine Observatory. Known for its clear skies, it’s a fantastic place to introduce children to astronomy. Sessions are by appointment, so be sure to book in advance.

Evening: Return to Geraldine for dinner at one of the local cafes, followed by a leisurely stroll around the quaint town center. Don’t miss the Geraldine Historical Museum to glimpse the area"s rich past, from Maori history to the pioneer days.

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Day 2: Adventure and Local Culture

Morning: Start with a visit to the Geraldine Farmyard Holiday Park. Just a 5-minute drive from the town center, this spot offers hands-on farm experiences, perfect for younger children. They can feed animals, learn about farm life, and enjoy pony rides.

Afternoon: After lunch in town, spend the afternoon at the Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Museum. Located just on the outskirts, it’s home to an impressive collection of vintage vehicles and farm machinery which will fascinate the entire family.

Evenary: Wrap up your visit with a trip to Talbot Forest Cheese on Talbot Street for a cheese tasting and a chance to learn about cheese making. Alternatively, take a scenic 20-minute drive south to Pleasant Point Railway. Here, families can ride a historic steam or diesel train on select running days, a nostalgic journey that delights all ages.

This two-day itinerary offers a blend of natural exploration, hands-on activities, and educational experiences, making Geraldine a perfect family getaway.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mt. Sunday

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Mt. Sunday, New Zealand

Day 1: Journey to Middle Earth

- Morning: Start your adventure to Mt. Sunday, located in the remote but breathtaking Ashburton District of the Canterbury region. Rent a 4WD vehicle from Christchurch for a scenic 2-hour drive; the route offers stunning views of the Southern Alps and Rangitata Valley.

- Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the base of Mt. Sunday, there are several picturesque spots along the way or near the parking area.

- Afternoon: Embark on the gentle walk up Mt. Sunday. This easy 30-minute trek is suitable for all ages and offers increasingly magical views. Once at the summit, marvel at the panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

- Fun Fact: Mt. Sunday served as the filming location for Edoras, the capital of Rohan, in "The Lord of the Rings" movies. Bring along some props for a themed family photo at the top!

Day 2: Exploring the Area

- Morning: Visit the nearby Hakatere Conservation Park. Opt for a guided nature walk to learn about local flora and fauna. The area is known for its unique alpine plants and birdwatching opportunities.

- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local eatery in Ashburton, offering delicious local produce and dishes suitable for children and adults.

- Afternoon: Drive to the Clearwater Fishing Resort, where families can try their hand at fishing or simply relax by the water. No equipment? No worries – rentals are available on site.

- Evening: Return to Christchurch or choose a local lodge to experience rural New Zealand hospitality, complete with stargazing opportunities under clear night skies.

Capping Off: Mt. Sunday provides a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cinematic history, making it an unforgettable stop on your New Zealand family vacation.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lake Pukaki

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to Lake Pukaki, renowned for its vivid turquoise waters and breathtaking views of Mount Cook/Aoraki. Begin your journey in the nearest township, Twizel, easily accessible via a scenic drive on State Highway 8.

Day 1: Discover the Shores of Lake Pukaki

Start your visit at the Lake Pukaki Visitor Centre. Here, you can immerse yourself in interactive displays about the local hydroelectric system and the unique glacial flour that colors the lake. Take the family on a gentle cycle or stroll along the Lake Pukaki Shoreline Trail accessible directly from the visitor center. It"s a flat route, ideal for children and offers numerous photo stops to capture the stunning landscape.

Day 2: Explore the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail

On your second day, embark on a section of the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, which begins at Aoraki/Mount Cook and ends at the Pacific Ocean. Rent bicycles from a local provider in Twizel and opt for a short segment that suits your family’s pace, perhaps the stretch leading back to Lake Pukaki for more mesmerizing views.

Day 3: Visit the Tasman Glacier

Drive up to Mount Cook Village, about 45 minutes from Lake Pukaki, and take a family-friendly walk to the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint. This easy 1-hour return walk offers a rewarding view of New Zealand’s largest glacier. Learn about the glacier"s retreat and its impacts on the landscape.

Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots along the lake’s edge. The remarkably clear skies in the Mackenzie Region also make this an excellent spot for stargazing, so consider staying until evening to gaze at the stars.

End your trip with lasting memories of exploring one of the most stunning landscapes in New Zealand, filled with learning opportunities and breathtaking natural beauty.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Arthur"s Pass National Park

Why Visit?

Welcome to a captivating family adventure in Arthur"s Pass National Park, a jewel nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps of New Zealand! Ideal for a family trip, the park offers breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and accessible trails perfect for all ages.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Arthur’s Pass Village

- Getting There: Arthur’s Pass is easily accessible by car, about two hours from Christchurch. Alternatively, take the scenic TranzAlpine train which offers a spectacular journey directly into the village.

- Activities: Once you arrive, visit the Arthur’s Pass Visitor Centre. It"s packed with educational displays and offers insights into the park"s geology and history. Enjoy a short, easy walk like the Millenium Walk, perfect for little legs and right behind the Visitor Centre.

Day 2: Hiking and Wildlife Spotting

- Morning Hike: Start your day with the Dobson Nature Walk, an easy loop that takes about an hour, offering chances to spot the cheeky Kea, the world"s only alpine parrot.

- Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a family picnic at Avalanche Creek, where kids can play and you can relax with the sound of water.

- Afternoon Activity: Visit the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall. It’s a slightly challenging 1-hour return walk, but the view of the 131-meter high waterfall is rewarding. The path is well-formed, although it has some stairs.

Day 3: Cave Stream Scenic Reserve

- Adventure Time: A short drive from the village, explore the Cave Stream Scenic Reserve. It involves a thrilling but safe underground cave experience that takes about an hour to complete. Suitable for kids over 12 years and a great adventure for teens.

Tips

- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

- Always carry snacks, water, and a basic first aid kit.

End your trip with plenty of photos, cherished family memories, and stories of adventure from one of New Zealand’s stunning natural playgrounds!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Burkes Pass

Why Visit?

Burkes Pass, nestled in the Mackenzie Basin on New Zealand"s South Island, is a charming gateway to the stunning Southern Alps, perfect for a family adventure.

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Start your trip by driving to Burkes Pass. It"s conveniently located on State Highway 8, roughly halfway between Christchurch and Queenstown. Upon arrival, visit the Burkes Pass Heritage Walk. Begin at the quaint St Patrick’s Church, one of New Zealand’s oldest Union Churches established in 1872, which is a picturesque spot for family photos. As you stroll, enjoy signposted stories revealing the area’s rich history, ideal for curious kids and history buffs alike.

Day 2: Outdoor Activities

Next day, engage the family with a scenic drive to Lake Tekapo, just 18 minutes east of Burkes Pass. Here, families can enjoy activities like kayaking or a leisurely bike ride around the lake. Don’t miss the Tekapo Springs for a relaxing swim in hot pools with views of the mountains and lake.

Day 3: Stargazing Experience

In the evening, wrap up your visit with a trip to the Mount John Observatory (accessible by a scenic road from Lake Tekapo). It’s an educational and awe-inspiring experience where families can gaze at the southern night skies. The observatory, part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, offers stargazing tours that are both informative and magical for children and adults alike.

Throughout your stay, local eateries such as the Burkes Pass Country Café offer delightful meals, ensuring you have the local culinary experience covered.

This engaging itinerary offers a blend of history, outdoor fun, and stargazing in Burkes Pass, making it a memorable family getaway to one of New Zealand’s picturesque locations.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.