Holidaying in New Plymouth? The Best Things to Do with Young Kids!

New Plymouth is one of those special destinations that ticks all the boxes for families. It’s easy-going, packed with nature, filled with fun things to do, and perfectly sized for short adventures with little ones. If you’re looking to enjoy a fun-filled family holiday with your children, New Plymouth makes it easy, and Flamingo Motel is the perfect base for your stay.

Whether it’s sunny or rainy, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities that will keep your little ones smiling, exploring, and sleeping soundly by day’s end (which is every parent’s dream!).

Explore Nature & Parks

Pukekura Park is New Plymouth’s jewel and a must-visit for families. With winding paths, red bridges, duck ponds, and an excellent playground, it feels like stepping into a storybook. Pack a picnic or grab lunch from the Treehouse Café while the kids feed the ducks or climb through the playground tunnels.

Brooklands Zoo, right next door, is another family favourite—and it’s free! This small zoo is the perfect size for younger children, with monkeys, farm animals, birds, and reptiles. There’s plenty of space to run around, and shaded picnic spots for parents to relax.

If you’re keen for a seaside adventure, the Coastal Walkway is ideal for prams, scooters, or family strolls. Stretching more than 10km, it offers stunning views, gentle terrain, and iconic landmarks like the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge—a great photo stop. You can also hop off at Fitzroy Beach, where kids can play in the sand and explore the playground right by the sea. There’s also a similar experience at East End Beach, while Ngāmotu Beach offers a safe, sheltered, family-friendly swimming environment.

Splash Around or Play Indoors

Rainy day? No worries! The Todd Energy Aquatic Centre is a hit with little and big water lovers alike. With a heated toddler pool, splash zone, and hydroslides for older kids, it’s a great way to burn off energy, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Prefer to stay dry? Head to Puke Ariki, New Plymouth’s library and museum in one. The children's area is fun, interactive, and full of hands-on exhibits that encourage play and learning. There are often activities or storytime sessions happening—ideal for those slower, relaxed holiday mornings.

For more indoor fun, Bowlarama and Kidzone Indoor Playland are always a win. Kidzone is soft-play heaven for toddlers and preschoolers, while Bowlarama is great for families with young kids or those a little older.

Young Kids Can Meet Animals & Get Curious

New Plymouth is also home to some charming, low-key attractions that are great for little ones. The Taranaki Aviation, Transport and Technology Museum offers a hands-on experience with vintage cars, planes, and old-school gadgets—perfect for curious minds. For an up-close animal experience, you might want to visit the Pouakai Zoo, a small family-run space that’s a hit with young children.

Family-Friendly Eats

Finding a café where kids are welcome (and catered for) is easy in New Plymouth. Right in the heart of New Plymouth, Liardet Street Projects is a vibrant open-air courtyard packed with flavour and personality. This laid-back spot brings together a colourful mix of food trucks and stalls serving up global street eats. It’s the go-to place when no one can decide what to eat, with something to suit every craving.

From juicy American-style burgers and smoky Texas brisket to zingy Vietnamese dishes, Hawaiian-Japanese fusion, stone-baked pizzas, cold-pressed juices, and even unique Indo-Portuguese (Goan) flavours—you’ll find it all here. Surrounded by bold, eye-catching street art, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for your taste buds.

The Teahouse Café at Pukekura Park is another top pick, as it has outdoor seating and room for kids to move. Deluxe Diner is a lot of fun for young and old, with its American 60s diner theme. This location has become famous for its all-day diner breakfasts, burgers with classic dinners, and large/fancy desserts.

There are also picnic-perfect spots everywhere—from the lakeside lawns of Lake Mangamahoe to the shaded trees around Kawaroa Park, where kids can check out the rock pools during low tide.

Stay in Comfort at Flamingo Motel

After a day full of fun, you’ll want a place where your family can unwind, recharge, and feel right at home. That’s where the Flamingo Motel comes in.

Our spacious, family-friendly units feature fully equipped kitchens, comfortable bedding, and ample space for everyone to relax. Kids love our pools - a heated indoor pool plus an outdoor pool - perfect for a splash before dinner or a wind-down soak after a big adventure.

We’re located just minutes from New Plymouth’s best attractions, beaches, and cafés—so you're never far from the next family memory. With easy parking, a safe and quiet setting, and friendly local hosts, Flamingo Motel is designed with families in mind.

Plan Your Family Escape to New Plymouth

From nature walks to sandy toes, free zoos to splash zones, New Plymouth is full of unforgettable experiences for the family. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll find a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and endless opportunities for fun.

So why not make Flamingo Motel your home away from home? We’ll help you create a family holiday full of smiles, stories, and sweet seaside moments.