Luxury Family Travel in New Zealand: 5 Best Resorts for Families

Beautiful New Zealand is the perfect destination for luxury family travel! Abundant with jaw-dropping natural beauty, incredible outdoor activities, and terrific wines, New Zealand is perfect for adrenaline junkies, foodies, and a wide range of travelers in between. You’ll be sure to find activities for the whole family to enjoy and have the experience of a lifetime. 

These are the top 7 New Zealand resorts for families, curated by our travel specialists: 

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers 

Located in beautiful Hawke’s Bay, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers offers an incredible stay for guests of all ages! With family suites, a dedicated kids’ menu, and attentive staff to curate your entire stay, the whole family will love this luxurious lodge. Cape  

Kidnappers is world-renowned for its stunning links golf course, but there are also plenty of outdoor activities to keep everyone entertained. A highlight for the little ones is the sheep shearing demonstration and watching sheepdogs in action on the working farm! 

Annandale 

Looking for a place to unplug and escape the world with the family? Welcome to the ultimate luxury getaway: Annandale. This private world of rolling farmland, open skies, and the sparkling waters of the Pacific is home to 4 distinct luxury villas that are perfect for families. 

Enjoy hiking or biking through the serene landscapes (the staff will even pack a gourmet picnic basket for you!), watch demonstrations on the working sheep farm, fish the nearby rivers with a local guide, and enjoy cooking classes with the onsite chef. In the sheltered, turquoise waters of Pigeon Bay, you can see New Zealand wildlife including friendly Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, blue penguins, and bird colonies; explore by kayak or Annadale’s powerboat for a fun family adventure! 

Blanket Bay 

Are you an adventurous family looking for a great getaway? Let’s talk about Blanket Bay Lodge. Nestled amidst the rugged snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Blanket Bay is perfect for families with older children (ages 10 and over). Discover fly-fishing, heli-skiing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and so much more! Approximately 45 minutes away is Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, where you’ll find endless family-friendly experiences. 

Hapuku Lodge + Treehouses 

With its beautiful setting, spacious and elegant rooms, and friendly staff, Hapuku is one of our favorite lodges in all of New Zealand! Kids and parents alike will have a blast swimming with dusky dolphins in Kaikoura, which love to jump, dive, and twirl around people. You can also enjoy surfing, hiking, biking, and whale watching. Back in your room, relax with breathtaking views of the mountains, ocean, and the red deer farm on the property. 

Wharekauhau Lodge 

Want something truly off the beaten path? Wharekauhau is about 3 hours from Wellington, located on Palliser Bay with its beautiful black sand beaches. With 3,000 acres of private land including ancient forests, peaceful lakes, rivers, and a wild and rugged coast, Wharekauhau is a natural playground just waiting to be explored! Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and ATV tours; visit a fur seal colony; or tour the sheep farm. Parents will love the renowned golf course, heavenly spa, and gourmet meals paired with delicious wines. 

Huka Lodge 

Huka Lodge sits along the tranquil Waikato River, just moments from the thundering Huka Falls, and offers an elegant yet welcoming retreat for families. The lodge’s spacious suites and private residences provide plenty of room to relax, while the surrounding landscapes invite exploration. Enjoy guided trout fishing on Lake Taupō, scenic river walks, and boat rides perfect for all ages. Kids love the open lawns and wildlife sightings, and parents appreciate the world-class dining and peaceful riverside setting. With warm hospitality and endless outdoor adventures, Huka Lodge delivers a luxurious family escape in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions. 

Fiordland Lodge 

Overlooking Lake Te Anau and surrounded by the dramatic peaks of Fiordland National Park, Fiordland Lodge is a dream getaway for nature-loving families. Its timber architecture, cozy suites, and family-friendly cabins create a warm base for exploring Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and nearby glowworm caves. Enjoy guided hikes, lake cruises, birdwatching, and stargazing in one of the world’s clearest night skies. Children will love spotting native birds on the grounds, while parents unwind with gourmet meals and serene lake views.  

Booking Tips for Luxury Family Resorts in New Zealand 

Booking early is key when planning unforgettable family vacations in New Zealand. The country’s most sought-after lodges and villas fill quickly during peak summer from December to February. To secure your preferred accommodation, including spacious suites or private villas, it’s best to reserve 8 to 12 months in advance. Families who travel during the spring or fall shoulder seasons enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and attractive rates without sacrificing luxury. 

Down Under Endeavours offers exclusive access to luxury family resorts that New Zealand travelers love, complete with personalized perks like private guides, curated dining, and flexible activities. Every property we recommend is personally inspected for comfort, safety, and world-class hospitality. From relaxing retreats to adventurous escapes, our travel designers ensure your itinerary blends discovery, relaxation, and togetherness. With our thoughtful planning and expert insight, New Zealand family holidays are seamless, authentic, and unforgettable. 

How Down Under Endeavours Elevates Your Family Stay 

Down Under Endeavours specializes in designing personalized journeys that bring out the best of family travel in New Zealand. Our team handpicks boutique resorts and family-friendly lodges that New Zealand families adore, each chosen for comfort, authenticity, and outstanding hospitality. With over two decades of experience, we create handcrafted itineraries for multi-generational travelers who value privacy, space, and one-of-a-kind experiences. 

Through our long-standing relationships with local partners, we secure exclusive privileges like private guides, flexible activities, and unique adventures suited to every age group. From wine tastings and cultural tours to wildlife encounters and scenic hikes, each day is designed to flow effortlessly. We bring it all together, smooth transfers, stunning family accommodation in New Zealand, and immersive experiences, creating a trip that unfolds with ease and excitement. 

Our clients trust us because we combine expertise, care, and creativity to deliver seamless New Zealand family holidays. Whether your dream includes tranquil beaches, alpine landscapes, or world-class dining, we turn your ideas into memories that last a lifetime. 

Ready to start planning your family vacation to New Zealand? Down Under Endeavours will handcraft the ultimate itinerary for the entire family! Browse our sample packages or give us a call at (888) 229-0082 to get started.