The vibrant city of Auckland has a wide range of family travel destinations and activities to suit all pocket sizes and interests. From beautiful beaches and parks to treasured wildlife encounters and fascinating museums to thrilling theme parks, there is something to entertain everybody. Here are a few attractions you should visit, and you can certainly count on our Auckland coach hire services to bring you there!
Auckland Zoo
Located in the Western Springs of the city, the Auckland Zoo is home to as many as 150 different animal species. Plan a day trip at this place to spend some quality time with your spouse and kids. Bring your own homemade lunch, or buy it from one of the several food stalls. There’s also a separate playground for kids. The key highlight of the place is a rainforest filled with monkeys and birds, and not to forget the penguin area and the impressive seal. Grab a timetable at the entrance to check for regular feeding times.
Kelly Tarltons
Situated on the Tamaki Drive, Kelly Tarltons will give you an ultimate underwater experience. Travel past a replica Orca whale and penguins in an Arctic Sno-Cat, while getting the feel of climatic conditions experienced by early explorers. The key attraction here is the underwater viewing tunnel, and the touch pool, where kids can hold real coral and starfish. The massive glass viewing tunnel is filled with numerous sea creatures and the shark. You can either choose to walk through or ride a travellator. The kids play area has a set of dress-up costumes, where children can take a getup of a sea creature.
Butterfly Creek
Close to the Auckland Airport, Butterfly Creek is one of the most exciting and colourful attractions in the city of Auckland. This is a great chance to spot some Nemo in the aquaria, along with sights of 500 butterflies in the wonderful tropical butterfly house. A couple of giant saltwater crocodiles indulge in an encounter daily at 1 pm daily. Kids can visit the Butter Milk Farm, and interact with farm animals, as they pat a bunny rabbit and see the goat getting milked.
There’s a separate kids’ playground and a little steam train, with coffee shops for adults to relax. Newest addition to this place is Dinosaur Kingdom, where you’ll find all sorts of dinosaurs that existed millions of years ago.
Auckland War Memorial Museum
The War Memorial Museum on the domain drive is a wonderful introduction of the New Zealand history from the cultural displays of the Maori Waka to pieces and bits from insects and animal fossils, in addition to the memories of War. Specially for kids, there are a couple of discovery centres, ‘Treasures and Tales’ and ‘Weird and Wonderful’. There’s a scheduled Maori Culture show, played thrice a day displaying the best of Maori haka, music and dance.
Auckland Stardome Observatory
As the name suggests, this venue is all about stars and the sky. You will be fascinated by the happenings of universe at the night time, and your kids are sure to be amazed by the replica of real planet, and a great introduction of the galaxy. The evening show is the best of all, as you take an expansive look at the skyline of the night through a massive telescope. There are certain customized shows that happen specifically for school kids, and you can book your spot online.
Cornwall Park
Cornwall Park in Auckland is a replica of the Central Park in New York, sprawling across a massive space, sitting nicely on a volcanic cone offering abundance of lush greenery. The notable features include the remains of Sir John Logan Campbell and the remnants of a pre-European Maori fort. One of the greatest assets of the park is the lookout spot, for sweeping views of One Tree Hill. The wildlife, kid’s playground, picnic areas and relaxed ambiance is worth all the appreciation. Here, you will be able to spot chickens, sheep and cows. Don’t forget to bring your camera as you capture the views of city skyline.
Sitting less than 5 miles towards the south of central Auckland, the park has enough parking space, and you can easily access it through several bus routes. Apart from picnic facilities, the park features a tennis club, bike paths, jogging tracks and a farm. Entry to the park is absolutely free, and there’s an ice-cream shop, a bistro and a café inside as well.
Rangitoto Island
Known for its panoramic Auckland views and exceptional hiking trails, the Rangitoto Island is located just off the coast of central city from Devonport. There are as many as 10 trails available for exploring the island in its entirety. Hikes are available with stunning vistas suitable for all levels of difficulties. If you are not fond of hiking, go for Fullers’ Volcanic Explorer Tour, with a ferry transport from downtown, and a scenic drive through the island.
Rangototo Island is a pest-free sanctuary just like any other volcanic island in the area. So, if you are packing lunch for yourself and your family, make sure to remove the trash off the island. Before you visit this place, get to know about its history and conservation.
Sky Tower
There is no destination like SkyCity Auckland in the entire country. It’s an exciting hub, with the iconic Sky Tower, with opportunities for adrenaline activities and dining. Standing high above all other buildings in the city, the Sky Tower is a must visit for your family. Soak up the views up to 80 km in each direction, at an elevation of 328 metres above the ground. Spot some of the vintage historical locations, volcanoes, and key landmarks within the greater urban region. Right at the base of the Sky Tower is the entertainment complex for some great time to be had with family.
If you are travelling as a family, make sure to choose coach hire in Auckland for a comfortable ride to any of these above destinations. Not only is it comfortable, but it is also worth the money!