The winter school holidays are here, and with them comes the age-old question: how do we keep the kids entertained for two whole weeks?
The good news? Aotearoa is full of incredible places and activities designed to make winter break feel more like a holiday and less like a mission. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway or a fun day trip close to home, this guide has ideas for everyone.
From snow days to indoor play, here’s your go-to winter school holiday guide — with a few handy links to help you find the perfect place to stay along the way.
Auckland & Surrounds: Big City Fun, Rain or Shine
Whether you’re staying local or visiting from out of town, Auckland offers a mix of indoor escapes and fresh-air fun for the whole family.
Auckland Things to Do:
- Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium – Great for rainy days, with sharks, penguins, and interactive exhibits.
- Auckland Zoo – Many animals love the cooler weather, and the new South East Asia Jungle Track is worth exploring.
- Snowplanet (Silverdale) – Real snow, skiing, snowboarding, and tubing all year round.
- Auckland Museum – Winter holiday programmes, cultural performances, and hands-on exhibitions.
Keen for a short winter day trip? Here are a few easy escapes from the city:
- Matakana – Just 45 minutes north of Auckland, this charming village offers boutique shops, a weekend market, and family-friendly spots like Sculptureum and the Matakana Cinema.
- Waiheke Island – Hop on the ferry and enjoy coastal walks, vineyards with winter menus, and laid-back island vibes – all just 40 minutes from downtown.
- Ambury Regional Park – An easy family outing with friendly farm animals, walking tracks, and wide-open space, just 20 minutes from the city.
Read more about fun things to do in Auckland here.
Want somewhere close to unwind after all that fun? Discover our holiday homes here.
Rotorua & Taupō: Nature, Culture and Geothermal Goodness
Perfect for a winter getaway, this central North Island duo combines adventure and relaxation.
Rotorua Things to Do:
- Redwoods Treewalk – Beautiful by day, magical by night with the twilight lantern trail.
- Polynesian Spa – Choose the family pools or treat yourself to the adult retreat.
- 3D Trick Art Gallery – Great indoor option with interactive photo fun.
Read more about the top things to do in Rotorua here.
Taupō Things to Do:
- Huka Falls Walkway – An easy trail with a big reward.
- Taupō DeBretts Hot Springs – Family slides, warm pools, and a play area.
- Lava Glass Gallery & Sculpture Garden – Beautiful art and a café for warming up.
Want to explore more experiences in Taupō? Read more here.
Stay Inspos: Rotorua and Taupō homes
Wellington: Creative, Cool, and Covered When It Rains
Wellington knows how to do winter well – with indoor attractions, great food and plenty of personality.
Wellington Things to do:
- Wellington Cable Car & Botanic Gardens – A classic combo, even in winter.
- Space Place – Stargazing indoors with hands-on learning.
- Zealandia – A stunning eco-sanctuary with walking tracks and rare bird sightings.
Read more about the top things to do in Wellington here.
Looking for a place to relax after exploring the capital? Find Wellington stays here.
Queenstown & Wānaka: The Ultimate Winter Escape
When you think of winter holidays in New Zealand, Queenstown and Wānaka top the list – and for good reason.
Queenstown Highlights:
- Skyline Gondola & Luge – Spectacular views and a bit of adrenaline for the kids.
- Coronet Peak Night Skiing – A bucket-list winter activity.
- Queenstown Ice Arena – Ice skating, bumper cars, and hot chocolate breaks.
Check out our South Island skiing guide for some insider tips here.
Wānaka Highlights:
- Wānaka Lavender Farm – Meet the friendly animals, sip on lavender hot chocolate, and enjoy the peaceful grounds – even in the cooler months.
- Lake Wānaka Cruise & Mou Waho Island Walk – A stunning boat ride paired with an easy guided nature walk on an island-within-a-lake. A mix of adventure and serenity.
- Puzzling World – Illusions, a massive outdoor maze, and brain teasers that’ll stump the whole family. Perfect for curious minds on chilly days.
- Mount Iron Track – A family-friendly loop with panoramic views over Wānaka. Bundle up and walk it in the morning for golden light and fewer crowds.
Discover cozy family-friendly stays in Wānaka and Queenstown here.
Christchurch & Canterbury: City Comforts with Alpine Options
A mix of urban discovery and mountain adventure, Canterbury is a great base for winter fun.
Things to Do:
Cooler days are made for exploring Dunedin’s unique mix of history, wildlife and nature.
- Mt Hutt Ski Area – One of NZ’s top ski fields, just 90 minutes from Christchurch. Great beginner slopes, kids’ ski school, and gear rentals.
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – Warm up in alpine hot pools surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Waterslides = instant kid approval.
- Peel Forest Park & Rakaia Gorge – Beautiful day trip destinations for winter walks, river views, and short family-friendly trails.
Explore family homes in Canterbury here.
Dunedin & Otago: Culture, Castles, and Coastal Walks
Things to Do:
- Royal Albatross Centre – See the only mainland nesting site of royal albatross in the world. Winter is peak viewing season.
- Tunnel Beach Walkway – Short, dramatic, and worth the effort. Wear good shoes – it’s wild and windy
- Toitū Settlers Museum – A mix of storytelling, tech, and interactive exhibitions.
- Penguin Place – Learn about conservation and see yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitat (book ahead – tours fill fast).
Find your home base in Otago here.
Winter School Holiday Survival Checklist:
- Layered clothing and waterproofs
- Snacks (always)
- A plan B for rainy days
- Somewhere cozy to come home to (we have got you!)
Make This Winter One to Remember
From snowy slopes to steamy hot pools, New Zealand is full of family-friendly winter adventures – you just need the right mix of indoor escapes and outdoor energy burners. Whether you’re in need of a proper break or just a few days to reset, there’s a corner of Aotearoa ready for you.
Need a base for your winter adventures? Explore our range of family-ready holiday homes across New Zealand and make these holidays your easiest (and warmest) ones yet. Click here to book your holiday home.
