Looking for the best things to do in New Zealand with teens?
We recently traveled to New Zealand with our own teen, and this post is based on our experiences.
After spending several weeks exploring both the North and South Islands, we’ve picked out our favorite activities to help you make the most of your trip.
From outdoor adventures to unique cultural experiences, we’ve selected highlights that are ideal for families with teens. Whether you’re into hiking, exploring local towns, or trying exciting activities, we’ve got you covered. Each recommendation comes from our personal experience.
You have already made the smart decision to check out New Zealand with your teenager. Now let us help you plan the best things to do on both the North and South Islands.
1. See Milford Sound
South Island
After two weeks in New Zealand with buckets of memories, our favorite is still Milford Sound.
Located in the Southwest part of the South Island, Milford Sound has to be a part of any New Zealand itinerary. It is just that astonishing.
We have so many stunning photos of the fjord with its deep waters and high waterfalls that we could paper this entire post with photos. But just trust us, it is worth it.
The car or bus ride alone to Fjordland National Park, where Milford Sound is located, is in itself an experience, especially the Kea Parrott.
The world’s only alpine parrot, the Kea is known for its intelligence and curiosity. These birds are often found in mountainous areas and are famous for their playful behavior. Several came right up to our vehicle and tried to hop in for a ride. They are always looking for a fast meal so keep your snacks close by.
Once you get to the Sound, you will take a 2-hour boat tour. It is not uncommon for dolphins to swim with the boats. And we were lucky enough to have a pod swim with us.
On board, it is all the hot drinks you can manage. We were in New Zealand in the winter, and so we made a respectable dent in the free drink category.
You can drive yourself or take a driving tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound, but it is a 4-hour drive one way. Many do it, but we don’t recommend it.
We are budget travelers. If luxury is your style and you can afford to trade in the driving tour from Queenstown for a flight, this 5-star tour which includes the flight from Queenstown and the boat ride at the Sound is magnificent.
We camped in Te Anau, which is just under 2 hours from the sound. Te Anau itself is a great little lake town and has a great glowworm opportunity at Te Anau Glowworm Caves (read #4 to learn more).
Even though we could have made the drive ourselves, we still opted for the tour and we don’t regret it. After planning a full two-week itinerary, we were so grateful to be picked up and have someone else handle all the details.
We highly recommend the tour we took from Te Anau. Lunch was included and the guide was so knowledgeable.
There is only one place to stay in Milford Sound: Milford Sound Lodge and it is pretty pricey. We thought about booking a camping site, but it was more than twice what we paid in Te Anau.
If you are interested in getting a room or a campsite at Milford Sound, book early. They fill up way in advance, especially in the summer.
2. Check Out Hobbiton
North Island
Okay, to be fair, we are serious Tolkien fans, especially our teen who is writing his high school capstone on the book. If you aren’t a fan of the books or the Lord of the Rings or Hobbit movies, So you might think this tourist attraction is a bit too high on the list. But let me assure you, it is not.
Hobbitown is just so cool.
Located near Matamata, the Hobbiton Movie Set features 44 hobbit holes, each with unique details that make them feel like actual homes. Two of these hobbit holes are fully furnished, so you can step inside and see what it would be like to live like Frodo or Bilbo Baggins.
A highlight of the tour is the Green Dragon Inn, where you can relax and enjoy a complimentary drink. They offer a selection of traditional ales, ciders, and non-alcoholic options.
The inn’s cozy atmosphere with its roaring fireplace makes the experience even more special. And the property even has its own cat that when we visited was curled up enjoying the warmth of the fire.
Hobbiton was originally built for the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy but was dismantled after filming. When Sir Peter Jackson decided to film “The Hobbit” trilogy, he approached the landowner to rebuild Hobbiton, this time as a permanent set. The result is a detailed and lasting tribute to the films and J.R.R. Tolkien’s work.
We couldn’t do the evening banquet because it was sold out, even in the winter. However, the guide mentioned it’s an amazing experience, with Hobbiton lit up by lanterns. Even if you can’t make it for the evening tour, the daytime visit is worth a stop with your teen
3. Hike the Hooker Valley Track
South Island
One of the highlights of our New Zealand trip was hiking the Hooker Valley Track with our teen.
Located in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park on the South Island, the Hooker Valley Track is a must-do for anyone who loves stunning landscapes and a bit of adventure. This easy 3-hour return hike is perfect for teens, offering great views without being too challenging.
The trail starts at the White Horse Hill campground and winds through the valley, crossing three suspension bridges. Each bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities, with clear rivers and Aoraki in the background. Our teen found the swaying bridges exciting, and they added an extra element of fun to the hike.
As you walk, you’ll pass through grasslands and along boardwalks, with views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The trail is well-marked and mostly flat, making it accessible for all fitness levels. About halfway along, you’ll come across the Mueller Lake lookout, which is a great spot to take a break and soak in the scenery.
The track ends at the Hooker Lake, where you can see icebergs floating in the water and get an up-close view of Aoraki. We packed a picnic and enjoyed lunch with one of the best backdrops we’ve ever seen.
Aoraki, formerly known as Mount Cook, was officially renamed to honor its Maori heritage.
The name Aoraki, which means “Cloud Piercer” in Maori, reflects the cultural significance and deep connections the indigenous people have with this mountain. The dual name Aoraki/Mount Cook acknowledges both the Maori and European histories of the area.
No matter the weather, the Hooker Valley Track offers a memorable experience.
The landscape reminds us a lot of the ruggedness and outdoor adventures we experience we we travel to Colorado with our teen.
Oh and one more thing…If you’re hiking the Hooker Valley Track, an added bonus is camping near Aoraki, which is part of a Dark Sky Sanctuary.
We stayed about 10 miles from the mountain at Glentanner Park and the night sky was spectacular. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an unforgettable experience.
4. Find Glow Worms
North and South Islands
The most famous place to find glow worms is at Waitomo Caves on the North Island or TeAnau Caves on the South. In both places, you book a tour, which includes a boat ride or walk down into the caves, with a tour guide, to see large colonies of glow worms.
We didn’t see glow worms at either of these places–and maybe we missed out. Both experiences are said to be amazing. But the truth is you can see glow worms at various spots throughout both the North and South Islands for free.
And as budget travelers, we love free. But first, what are glow worms?
A glowworm is a bioluminescent insect, often found in dark, damp environments like caves and forests. These larvae emit a blue-green light to attract prey, which they catch using sticky silk threads. The bioluminescence is produced through a chemical reaction in their bodies.
We had seen bioluminescence in the waters in Cartagena, but seeing a thousand pin lights on a cliffside was a new level of cool.
When we first got to New Zealand, locals (okay, locals selling tours) told us that we really wouldn’t see large colonies without taking a tour. And they were right, we didn’t see large colonies. But we did happen across glow worms throughout our trip, even finding them at one of our campsites near Arthur’s Pass
And while it would be cool to see a larger colony, when we saw them it was typically just the three of us to marvel at them, which was its own kind of cool.
Our favorite spot to see them was just outside of Hokitika on the South Island. About a mile outside of town, on the left side of the road is Glow Worm Dell.
We used our phone GPS to find it and there is a sign on the side of the road to let you know you’ve found the right place.
The Dell, which is a naturally created wall, is a short 2-3 minute walk from the road. Use your flashlight for the stairs, but then turn it off as soon as you reach the Dell, as the light isn’t good for the Glow Worms. And then yeah….just enjoy the nighttime show.
5. Rent the Campervan
North and South Island, But South is Best!
In full disclosure, I was not thrilled about the idea of living in a campervan with our teenage son when it was first proposed. To add to the concern, we decided to rent a smaller van because we were a bit concerned about driving on the “wrong side of the road.”
Nine days in a small van in New Zealand winter, sounds lovely, no?
I was wrong. It was actually lovely. One of our best tips for traveling with teens is to remember why you are traveling together.
You don’t have forever together and renting the campervan will definitely be a core memory.
Okay, there were parts of it that were challenging. Making our beds up each night. Shuffling the suitcases around. Setting up the small dining table when it was too rainy to eat outside.
But it was also priceless. We went to New Zealand the summer before our son’s senior year, and it was not lost on us that experiences like this–to travel together and sleep so closely–and be well a lot of together is coming to an end.
One of the things that truly impressed us was the campgrounds and facilities. Everywhere we stayed had a power hook-up, large shared kitchens with multiple cooking stations, a common room, and a large bathroom and toilet facilities.
If you do decide to take up our suggestion, and we hope you do, there are a few items I would be sure to get for your teen, especially a portable battery and cord organizer for the time between charging and the need to keep all things organized.
6. Eat a Fergburger
South Island
You will find the best burgers on the South Island in Queenstown at Fergburger.
When we first saw people walking around Queenstown with these giant burgers, we weren’t sure if they were worth the hype. But they are.
Fergburger is a must-visit spot for anyone in Queenstown, especially if you’re traveling with teens.
The burgers are huge, delicious, and packed with fresh ingredients. Our teen was thrilled with the size and taste, declaring it the best burger they’d ever had.
We tried the iconic “Fergburger with Cheese,” and it was amazing. The beef patty was juicy, the bun was perfectly toasted, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. We also needed a gluten-free bun for one of our burgers and unlike most gluten-free alternatives, it was actually good.
The line at Fergburger can be long, but it moves quickly, and the wait is worth it. We found that the best time to go is either early in the day or later in the evening to avoid the peak crowds.
Once you have your burger, you can take it to go and enjoy it by the lake or find a spot in the nearby park.
Eating a Fergburger is more than just a meal; it’s a Queenstown experience. Walk Through the Trees
7. Walk Among Giant…Giant Trees
North Island
Logging is a significant industry in New Zealand, but when the country realized it was in danger of over-logging, they began experimenting with new types of wood. This led to the introduction of redwoods on the North Island, particularly in the town of Rotorua.
Rotorua is home to the Redwood Tree Walk, an incredible experience where you can stroll among towering trees on elevated walkways. The walk takes you through the forest canopy, giving you unique views from the redwoods.
We recommend doing the Redwood Tree Walk at night. The forest is illuminated by beautiful lanterns designed by David Trubridge, a renowned New Zealand artist known for his sustainable lighting designs. The lanterns cast a soft glow, creating a magical atmosphere.
Walking among the giant redwoods at night, with the lanterns lighting your way, feels pretty darn magical.
The walk is safe and suitable for all ages, making it very family-friendly.
Our teen loved the blend of nature and art, which was a highlight of our trip to Rotorua. If you’re visiting the North Island, the Redwood Tree Walk is an experience worth having.
8. Drive the West Coast
South Island
Driving the West Coast of the South Island is something you and your teen shouldn’t miss. The drive from Greymouth to Westport offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in New Zealand.
If you have traveled with your teen to Hawaii, especially Kauai, you’ll feel a similar vibe. The West Coast of New Zealand is the wettest place in the country making the area eternally green. But it is the stunning cliff views of the ocean that make you feel like you are in Hawaii.
The road winds along cliffs, through rainforests, and past beaches. Each turn brings a new view, making it a great road trip for families.
A must-see along the way is the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki.
These unique limestone formations look like stacks of pancakes. They’re especially impressive at high tide when the ocean surges through the blowholes, creating huge sprays.
We spent a good amount of time exploring the walkways and taking in the views.
The Pancake Rocks are an easy stop along the drive and worth visiting.
There are signs along the path that explain the geology and history of the area, which our teen found interesting.
The walk to the rocks is short and accessible, making it a great break from the drive. There are also so many great hikes nearby. We drove a mile up the road to hike the Pororari River Track, which was great. The hike is to the right of the road, but you can ask at the visitor center for more specific directions.
The West Coast drive is full of small towns and scenic spots to explore, so take your time and enjoy the journey. Whether you’re stopping for photos, short walks, or just to take in the scenery, the West Coast offers a memorable adventure for the whole family.
9. Learn About the Maori
North Island
One of the most enriching experiences in New Zealand was learning about the Maori culture. The best place to do this is in Rotorua on the North Island.
Consider visiting Te Puia, a cultural center and geothermal park. The park near Rotoroa combines geysers, and hot springs, and a Maori cultural experience.
You will participate in a traditional welcome ceremony, which includes a powerful haka. The guides explain the significance of the rituals, songs, and dances, giving us a deeper understanding of Maori traditions.
After the ceremony, you will tour the replica Maori village to see carvings and weaving and learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating these beautiful items. Your teen will appreciate trying out the poi dance and learning a few words in the Maori language.
Another great place to learn about Maori culture is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands. This historic site is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and Maori chiefs. The museum and guided tours provided a detailed look at the treaty’s significance and the history of New Zealand.
We had an opportunity to travel to Peru in South America to visit the famed Macchu Pichu. Like many cultural sites, learning about the Maori in New Zealand helps you understand the past. But unlike ancient sites, sites like Te Puia, shows you the vibrant Maori culture that is happening right now.
Learning about the Maori culture added depth to our trip and helped us appreciate New Zealand’s rich heritage.
10. Eat Cheese
North Island
Mercer, New Zealand, might just have the best cheese in the world. We loved it so much that we stopped by twice.
Started over 40 years ago by an Englishman, this small shop in Mercer sells cheese made right on the farm. The shop offers a variety of cheeses, all crafted with care and packed with flavor. You can taste the difference that comes from being made locally.
The store is often staffed by the farmer’s sister, a former nurse who was convinced by her brother to help with the shop. She’s friendly and knowledgeable, and it was great to hear her stories about how the shop came to be.
On each visit, we sampled different types and ended up buying a few favorites to take with us. The shop is cozy and charming, and the staff are happy to let you taste before you buy.
If you’re passing through Mercer, perhaps on your way to Hobbiton or Rotoroa, make sure to stop by. It’s a small detour that’s worth it for cheese lovers.
11. See a Kiwi
North and South Island
While it’s tough to spot a kiwi in the wild due to their shyness and nocturnal habits, there are a few places where you can get a glimpse of this iconic bird.
We visited the Kiwi Conservation Centre in Franz Josef on the South Island. The center is dedicated to kiwi conservation and offers a chance to see these flightless birds up close.
The staff are passionate and provide interesting insights into kiwi behavior and conservation efforts.
Seeing a kiwi in a controlled setting is a special experience, especially given how elusive they are in their natural habitat
12. Get Great Views of Auckland
North Island
Sometimes the best way to see a city is from a distance. Take the ferry from Auckland to Devonport, the oldest suburb outside the city.
Hike up to the top of Mount Victoria, an inactive volcano, for spectacular views of Auckland and its harbor. The hike is relatively short but offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the Auckland Harbour Bridge, and the surrounding islands.
After the hike, explore Devonport’s charming Victorian houses and make sure to stop by Devonport Chocolates, a local favorite.
13. Check Out the Night Market
North Island
Rotorua’s night market is a great spot to dive into local flavors. It runs every Thursday evening and is packed with food stalls offering a wide range of delicious eats.
Our teen loved hopping from stall to stall, trying different dishes like hangi and other tasty treats.
While there are a few art and craft stalls, the night market is mostly about the food. If you’re looking for souvenirs, you might want to shop elsewhere.
The lively atmosphere, with its colorful lights and street performers, makes for a fun evening out for the whole family.
14. Bounce Down a Mountain
North Island
One thing we regret not fitting into our schedule was the Zorb experience in Rotorua. We heard so much about it—rolling down a hill in a giant inflatable ball sounded like a blast.
It’s one of those activities that seems perfect for teens, offering a chance to laugh a lot and just have fun.
The Zorb experience is all about the thrill of rolling downhill inside a huge ball, and it’s hard not to imagine how much fun it would be with the whole family.
If you’re heading to Rotorua, definitely make time for it. It’s one of those unique experiences that would have added an extra dose of excitement and laughter to our trip.
If you do take us up on this New Zealand Adventure experience, please let us know how it goes. We’d love to hear about it!
15. Kayak in Abel Tasman National Park
North Island
Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park is a great way to explore its coastline. We were in New Zealand during the winter, so we missed this activity, but it’s on our list for next time.
Abel Tasman National Park features beaches, clear waters, and forests. Paddling through the bays, you can enjoy the views and spot marine life.
There are two basic options for kayaking: guided trips or kayak rentals. Guided trips let you benefit from the knowledge of an experienced guide and kayak instructor.
Alternatively, renting a kayak gives you the freedom to explore the park at your own pace.
The park’s calm waters are ideal for kayaking, especially in the warmer months. If you visit in summer, definitely add this to your plans.
When to Travel to New Zealand
Choosing the right time to visit New Zealand can greatly impact your experience. Most travelers go in December to enjoy New Zealand’s summer, but we loved our winter visit. Seeing snow on the South Island in June was a unique experience.
Traveling during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter also means fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed trip. If you’re considering a senior trip during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, New Zealand is a great option for a senior trip as it aligns with school breaks.
If you plan to campervan around the South Island, winter travel has the added benefit of less advance booking.
In contrast, campervan spots fill up quickly during New Zealand’s summer, so if you’re visiting then, make sure to book early.
Conclusion: New Zealand with Teens
We loved New Zealand.
As you plan your family trip to New Zealand, we hope these recommendations help you find the best activities for you and your teen.
Our suggestions come from our own experiences exploring both the North and South Islands, so you can trust that we’ve selected spots and activities that we genuinely love.
We hope you find this guide helpful.
Enjoy your trip and make the most of everything New Zealand has to offer.
