Things To Do with Kids in Nelson - Tasman

Nelson Tasman is like one giant natural playpark for children...and adults. This family destination will keep everyone happy. And make you very popular.

One of the jewels of the South Island, Nelson Tasman and its national parks, safe swimming beaches, nature and wildlife are often at the top of a New Zealand family itinerary. It's one of the sunniest spots in the country too, so kids will spend the majority of their time at one with nature under the great blue skies. They'll also sleep very, very well at the end of the day.

Kids can kayak to offshore islands inhabited by amazing marine life, learn to fish for salmon, hike in the mountains, horse ride along the sand or convince their parents to zipline with them. Whatever you all choose, it'll be utterly unforgettable.

Ready for some serious inspiration for what to do with children in Nelson Tasman? You're in for a treat

Image: www.nelsontasman.nz

Nature and Wildlife Activities

  • Giddy-up! It's time for a family horse riding adventure along the stunning, sandy Wharariki Beach.
  • Go snorkeling and kayaking around Tonga Island Marine Reserve where dolphins, seals and penguins are never far away. You'll be a kid in a candy shop here.
  • The kids will walk their legs off and be awe-struck as they hike around the beautiful alpine lakes of Rotoroa and Rotoiti in Nelson Lakes National Park.

Image: www.nelsontasman.nz

Adventure Activities

  • The flying fox here won't be something you forget in a hurry. Soar above the forest canopy on a family-sized zip wire for a scenic, adrenaline-charged experience.
  • Delight the children to their very core with a sea kayaking experience where they'll meet penguins, sea lions and all manner of birds on the two islands of Ngawhiti and Motu.
  • On the banks of the Anatoki River, let the children fish for delicious chinook salmon, which they can then have cooked for them on the spot. That's lunch sorted.

Image: Jester House

Indoor Activities

  • Despite the outdoorsy nature of the region, indoor activities are thankfully plentiful too. Discover everything from trampoline centres to bowling, climbing walls and a wave pool.
  • Fairy magic is dished out at the Jester House, where friendly eels writhe in the garden ponds and a fantastic selection of lunches and sweet treats is served in the café.
  • This might be the sunniest spot in New Zealand, but rainy days do happen. Take the kids to the Nelson Provincial Museum for cool interactive displays and a bit of a history lesson.

Created in partnership with Nelson Regional Development Agency