KEY POINTS:
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: 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.
Contact: (04) 381 6750
On the web: www.wellingtonzoo.com
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.
Contact: 0800 327 853
On the web: www.dartriver.co.nz
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.
Contact: (03) 573 4554
On the web: www.lochmaralodge.co.nz
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.
Contact: (03) 941 8999
On the web: www.kidsfest.co.nz
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.
On the web: www.rotoruaanglers.org.nz
