1. Visit The National Kiwi Centre
Rainy day? Head to the Kiwi Centre in town, where kids can see kiwi up close, feed 100 year old giant eels, catch and release koura (freshwater crayfish) and check out the tuatara.
2. Take the Kids to the Playground at Cass Square
The newly build playground at Cass Square, in the town on Weld Street, is a great place for kids to run around and blow off a bit of steam. They can climb the replica Hokitika Clocktower. Have fun on the swings and slide or play football etc on the huge field.
3. Visit the Hokitika Glow Worm Dell
Take a short evening stroll to the Hokitika Glow Worm Dell. It's free, magical and only a few minutes from the town centre. Bring a torch for the track, but switch it off when you arrive to let the glow worms shine and not annoy other visitors.
4. Explore the Hokitika Beach and Driftwood Sign
Explore the stunning, wild West Coast beach, search for pounamu and interesting rocks and driftwood. Maybe even create your own driftwood sculpture. Take your picture at the famous Hokitika Driftwood Sign. Make sure to be at the beach in time for the sunset! Maybe even take some fish and chips down to the Tambo by the river and have a picnic lunch/dinner.
The Tambo.
Hokitika Driftwood Sign
5. Discover the Hokitika Gorge
Just a 30 minute drive inland, the Hokitika Gorge is a must-see. The short track is family friendly with turquoise water that looks straight out of a fairy tale. There are two bridges over the water to take your family photos from. Part of the track is wheelchair and stroller friendly. In summer, bring your bug spray as there are lots of sandflies near the water.
Hokitka Gorge
6. Go Cycling on the West Coast Wilderness Trail
Hire bikes and try a family-friendly section of the West Coast Wilderness Trail. The trail is flat in parts, and perfect for kids who want an adventure on two wheels.
Hire bikes from Hokitika Cycles & Sports, Tancred Street.
Part of the West Coast trail goes along the coast.
7. Make Your Own Pounamu Pendant
Older kids (and adults) will love creating their own greenstone jewellery. Book a session with Steve at Bonz 'n Stonz, Hokitika.
8. Swim and a Picnic at Lake Kaniere
On a sunny day, head to Lake Kaniere for a lake swim. The lake is surrounded by native bush and has picnic areas perfect for family BBQs, picnics and games.
9. Westland Industrial Heritage Park
Westland Industrial Heritage Park is a working museum with a variety of exhibitions, experiences and ongoing projects on offer. The Park is 100% run by a team of dedicated volunteers, who are passionate restoring Westland's industrial past to running condition for public display. The result is a vibrant and dynamic family tourist attraction, situated in Hokitika.
Ride the miniature steam trains, see the huge collection of vinatge machinery and vehicles.
10. Hokitika Treetop Walk
Want a day in nature with your friends or family? The 425m dual zipline & West Coast Tree Walk is perfect for families and those seeking both excitement & tranquility. Walk among 800-year-old Rimu trees or enjoy a 60km/hr zipline ride together. West Coast memories are made here.
Final Tip
Whether your're exploring glow worm dells, beaches, or feeding giant eels, Hokitika is an easy, affordable and unforgettable family destination.
Looking for the perfect base? Check out Crooked Mile Cottage or Blue Spur Farmstay for family-friendly accommodation in Hokitika
