- Since 2019 -
New Zealand
the ultimate active
family travel experience
Epic Destinations
A showcase of the best things that New Zealand has to offer. And you…. yes you! You can go there too
Travel Planning
Traveling with a family can be a logistical challenge (not a nightmare, just needs a bit of planning) We have you covered with all the practical advice you need to know
The Inside Word
Do you want to travel like a local? Are you looking for an authentic kiwi experience? Find the best itineraries, local treats, kids playgrounds and more hot tips here
Join our family
Hey, Jen from Backyard Travel Family here. We are a family of 5, with 3 active kids who love to explore New Zealand. We provide you with local advice so you too can have your dream holiday in New Zealand

Be Organised
We are not just another website showing you pretty pictures, well yes, we do that too. Our difference is we give you practical advice for every adventure
- How long does the track take to walk with kids?
- Are there any other hidden gems in the area?
- Is there shade to have a picnic?
- Hungry? We will let you know the best places for that celebratory ice cream or well needed coffee
Be Inspired
New Zealand has a vast array of landscapes and activities, but how will you choose?
Enter our showcase and we will show you our top choices and a first hand account of how to do it with your kids
Be Smart
We offer a comprehensive list of tips and tricks for your travel around New Zealand. But how do we know? We are a local kiwi family, born and bred. We have traveled overseas and know it requires a bit more planning with kids. So no more extensive research! We have the best websites to use, local itineraries, weather tips and where to find the tastiest New Zealand treats
"Don't waste family time researching, when your
local guide is right here"

Sharplin Falls Walk: Easy walk for beginners and families
Sharplin Falls Track, Mid Canterbury Sharplin Falls is a beautiful waterfall nestled in the foothills of Mt Somers. It’s a great family friendly walk, suitable for kids and beginner hikers too. A lovely stroll through the beautiful bush, full of

The Best Christchurch Family Accommodation
From budget to luxury, we’ve found the best locations, those with fab kitchen facilities even playgrounds. Find the best family friendly accommodation in Christchurch here

Kiwi Burn Hut: Easy family friendly tramp in Fiordland
Kiwi Burn Hut Kiwi Burn Hut is a great beginners hut for new trampers or families with kids. It’s a beautiful forest track in the Snowden Forest Conservation Area of Southland, not far from Te Anau. It’s in the

Rod Donald Hut: Easy Family Friendly Hut Adventure
Rod Donald Hut, Banks Peninsula Wow this little hut is absolutely fantastic and really makes the outdoors accessible for practically everyone. It has a cute cosy feel and is perfect for families with kids and beginner trampers who are getting

Best things to do in Ashburton and Mid Canterbury with Kids
Things to do in Ashburton with Kids and around the Mid Canterbury Region If you are like me, you are always looking for interesting things to do with kids in Ashburton, or what to do in the Mid Canterbury Region.

Hooker Valley Track: The Best Day Walk in New Zealand
Hooker Valley Track, Mt Cook National Park updated September 2023 The Hooker Valley Track in the Mount Cook National Park has to be one of the most stunning and easiest day walks in the country. When I first moved to
Hello.
I’m Jen, Captain of Backyard Travel Family. I’m so excited you are keen to check out the BEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD with us
We really want everyone to enjoy looking around New Zealand as much as we do, so feel free to contact us for advice, or check out more below.
