Family-friendly winter activities in Taitokerau Northland
With a little preparation and the right information, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities to keep the kids engaged this winter. Here are 5 of our top suggestions:
Visit the epic waterfalls around the region
Waianiwaniwa Rainbow Falls in Kerikeri, Otuihau Whangārei Falls and Haruru Falls are all easily accessible, closely located next to carparks and with easy walking tracks to viewing points. Bonus: the falls are always a little more spectacular after a bit of rain!
Explore history and heritage
Taitokerau Northland has a rich dual history to share and many of the museums and heritage sites appeal to both adults and children. Visit Pompallier Mission and Printery for a fascinating insight into bookbinding, learn about the coming together of Māori and Pakeha at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, or explore the gigantic Kauri Museum in Matakohe.
Loop the Hatea Loop in Whangārei
You’ll find an epic playground at Pohe Island, plenty of grass to run about at Hihiaua Park, the intriguiging Hundertwasser Art Centre in the Town Basin and lots of spots to fuel Mum and Dad with coffee along the way. Top tip: the mosaiced exterior of the Hundertwasser Art Centre has lots of hidden gems, have the kids hunt for the animals and find secret letters of the alphabet among the patterns.
Go treasure hunting, #NorthlandStyle
Search rockpools for miniscule marine life at places like Cable Bay in the far north and wander sandy beaches for interesting shells and stones along long stretches of sand like Ocean Beach and Bream Bay in Whangārei. Discover interesting flowers and plants at gardens like the Whangārei Quarry Gardens and when you’ve had your fill, go treasure hunting in an icecream cone for Goody Goody Gum Drops.
Discover the varied nature and wildlife of the region
A visit to Kiwi North is an exciting opportunity to see Kiwi in their natural habitat in the nocturnal kiwi house, as well as see the green gecko and tuatara that also live here. The ancient kauri forests in Whangārei, the Kauri Coast and the far north are awe-inspiring, not just for the size of the giant kauri trees but for the diversity of flora and fauna. And there are plenty of boat trips in the Bay of Islands where you’re likely to spot different marine life like dolphins, penguins and seals.