[Brodie]

My husband and I are going to Auckland in April 07 for our first visit since our son and family emigrated in June 06. I can't wait!

We plan to have a family holiday touring S Island by campervan so that we can have loads of quality time with the grandchildren. I've done my homework and know the best sights to see. But a 10 year old and a 7 year old are not likely to be impressed by Milford Sound or Mount Cook for more than 10 minutes. So can anyone help me out with some suggestions for memorable fun things for the kids along the way?

Brodie

[anna_c]

I haven't been to the SI with children, but though they are still in the category of scenery I think the blowholes at Punakaiki and the glaciers (Fox or Franz Josef) would be more exciting. I'd also include some light adventure type activities, kayaking for example. I did this at Punakaiki as well, but you're hardly short of options.

[veronica]

In Christchurch there is a good interactive science museum. and in Wanaka there is the puzzle house. but my own feeling is that the holiday itself will keep them occupied as long as they are allowed to play, get grubby and have people giving them time.

[Helsandfamily]

HI,

Kaikoura might be fun for them with the Whales and dolfins etc.

hels

[Carol]

This is a cool place to go to - it's a wee bit "touristy" but my kids loved it. You can do "gold panning" and things like that.
http://www.shantytown.co.nz/

There is a place called "etime" in Christchurch on Armagh Street where you can leave them for the day in holiday programmes - it is wonderful. great if They are keen on computers etc. The owners are friends of mine - she is an ex principal. But you would need to book them in well in advance.
http://www.etime.co.nz/

Then you could go shopping for a few hours!
Whale watch in Kaikoura is great. And the glaciers are AMAZING! Book a flight over them if you can.

Carol

[willowshouse]

Can strongly recommend the Antarctic Attraction in Christchurch .. right next to the airport. As adults we loved the info side of it - it is really interesting stuff. The kids loved a 10 minute session in a blizzard room where the temperature droppped from normal to freezing (they give you coats to keep warm) and a trip on a snowmobile type vehicle on rough terrain. A very easy way to spend at least half a day - enjoyable and educational (Two words that don't always sit easily in the same sentence!)

Have a look http://www.iceberg.co.nz/attraction.asp

Dawn