Planning a family getaway can sometimes be tricky, as we try to organise a trip that is perfect for everyone’s needs. In New Zealand’s Mount Aspiring National Park area, there truly is something for everyone, with plenty of beautiful scenery, thrill-seeking experiences and opportunities to relax on offer. If you are planning a weekend getaway for your family, look no further.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park is known for being the most pristine and untouched national park in New Zealand, and it should definitely be on your list of places to visit! If you want a quick and easy walk through the park to keep the kids entertained, you can take them on the short walk to the Blue Pools where they can stare in awe at the crystal-clear pools of glacial blue water. Taking only an hour, this trek will also take you over fun and exciting cross swing bridges, which the kids are sure to love!
Makarora
If your family is filled with thrill-seekers, then the Makarora area will be perfect for you to visit. The Wilkin River Jet takes excited adrenaline junkies on a unique experience, where they can skim across the Wilkin and Makarora river at top speeds. The Wilkin River Jet is also suitable for children and kids under 3 can ride for free. If you love the idea of soaring to new heights to catch a glimpse of the scenery from a whole new level, why not take a scenic helicopter ride above the mountains? Look out at the snow-topped peaks, crystal clear lakes and beautiful rainforest in this one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to impress your little ones too!
After a busy day of exploring, you can also kick back and relax at Wonderland Makarora Lodge. With plenty of accommodation on offer, including stunning chalets for families, it is the perfect place to chill out after a busy day of exploring. With an on-site restaurant available, you can also leave the cooking to the experts, so you can sit back and enjoy a delicious meal (best paired with an ice-cold beer!).
Lake Hawea
Located less than an hour from Makarora, you can take in all of the beauty on offer at Lake Hawea. The drive to this area is scenic, so the kids are bound to stay entertained during the trip. If you are feeling pretty flat out after a busy weekend away with the kids, Lake Hawea is the perfect place to chill out for the day or even just for an afternoon. Take in the stunning scenery as you kick back with a good book and let the kids enjoy playing in the water! You can also explore the area with a hike through the beech forest that leads to a braided riverbed that is sure to impress the kids. Topped off with a refreshing swim in Lake Hawea, this is the perfect, relaxing way to end your fun-filled family weekend getaway!
