Morere Hot Springs near Gisborne features public and private thermal pools and cold freshwater pools. There are barbecues, picnic areas and a range of walks. Self-catering accommodation is provided at Moonlight Lodge and guests can enjoy after-hours entry to the pools.
Contact: (06) 837 8856
On the web: href="http://www.morerehotsprings.com" target="new">www.morehotsprings.com
Twilight zone Wellington Zoo's nocturnal house, The Twilight, has been refurbished to resemble a typical Kiwi tramping hut. Visitors can learn about native reptiles and birds and ways of protecting wildlife in the backyard. The one-legged kiwi Tahi can be seen in The Twilight daily at 1.15pm.
Do the Dart The Dart River runs through Mt Aspiring National Park at the head of Lake Wakatipu. Until September 30, Dart River Jet Safaris are offering $30 off any of their three safari adventures. Hot soup is provided. Trips leave from Queenstown.
For the birds Six yellow-crowned kakariki that recently arrived at Lochmara Lodge Wildlife Recovery & Arts Centre in the Marlborough Sounds will be part of a captive breeding programme that raises birds for release into the wild. The lodge provides accommodation and dining, on-site art galleries and walking tracks. Art and conservation events are held regularly.
Plenty of kids' stuff An Astronomical Discovery Tour, a Great Grooming Experience, a Balloon Bonanza and a Fantastical Fairytale Circus are some of more than 200 events planned for the TV2 KidsFest in and around Christchurch. It runs July 5-18 and a full programme is online.
Fly fishing The Rotorua Anglers Club runs monthly Kids Fish Out Days at the Fish & Game Trout Hatchery in Ngongotaha. Six to 14-year-olds get lessons in fly fishing and all catch a fish. It costs $3 and there are two sessions, 9am to noon and 1pm-3pm. Upcoming dates are July 6, August 10, September 7 and November 2.
