Tasman Holiday Parks

Must do Experiences in New Zealand

Our top picks for experiences in New Zealand

New Zealand has a certain magic to it. Its unbelievable scenery, adventure, relaxation and good food and wine attract millions of tourists every year. And with New Zealand’s borders opening, tourists are finally returning. Whether you’re the adventurous type that fancies leaping off the world’s highest cliff jump or a relaxation lover that prefers good food or a soak in natuaral hot pools, New Zealand has something for you. Check out these amazing experiences to have on your next New Zealand holiday.

New Zealand Experiences for the Adventurous

New Zealand is full of amazing activities for the adventurous traveler.

Canyon Swing in Queenstown

Imagine free falling 60 meters down a cliff face then swinging through a stunning canyon before being pulled back up to the top. If you can manage to keep your eyes open, the scenery is truly breathtaking. The canyon swing in Queenstown is an experience like no other and is not for the faint-hearted. Get creative with your jumpstyle and ride a trike over the edge, fall back off a chair, plunge down a slide or fall headfirst. If you don’t want to go it alone, you can go tandem with a buddy. This epic experience is only 15 minutes from the city of Queenstown. Book in advance online to avoid disappointment.

Adrenalin Forest Christchurch

For a day packed full of adventure the whole family can enjoy, head out to Adrenalin Forest Christchurch. This aerial obstacle course stretches through the trees for more than two kilometres and is 20 metres off the ground. It will have your heart racing as you challenge yourself with a series of 100 activities. Challenge yourself and see how far you can go. Bookings are essential so call or book online. If you’re staying at Tasman Holiday Parks – Christchurch, it’s just a quick 15-minute drive.

Sky Dive Tauranga

Fall for the beautiful Bay of Plenty with a tandem skydive in Tauranga. Enjoy a peaceful 20-to-25-minute scenic flight overlooking Mount Maunganui, White Island, Mount Ruapehu, the Rotorua Lakes, The Coromandel, Mount Taranaki and beautiful golden beaches before leaping out of the plane. You will fall through the sky at a heart-stopping 200 kilometers per hour before gliding like a bird over the most amazing scenery. Choose from a 12,000ft or 15,000ft jump and make sure you book ahead to avoid missing out. If you’re staying at Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach, it’s just a short 15 minute drive to Tauranga Airport.

New Zealand Experiences for the Nature Lovers

Surround yourself in nature.

Milford Sound

Surround yourself in nature in some of the world’s most vivid wilderness at Milford Sound. On the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island, you will discover the eighth wonder of the world where cliffs rise from dark inky waters, mountains disappear into the clouds and waterfalls plunge down steep rocky cliff faces. There are many ways to explore its raw beauty from a day or overnight cruise, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, or hiking. Tasman Holiday Parks – Te Anau is the perfect place to stay when visiting Milford Sound. It’s approximately a two-hour drive, or for a scenic journey where you can sit back and relax, join a coach or cruise tour.

Arthur’s Pass National Park

Two hours northwest of Christchurch is the magnificent Arthur’s Pass. It’s the highest and most spectacular pass across the Southern Alps. Stay at Tasman Holiday Parks – Christchurch and enjoy a scenic day trip to Arthur’s Pass by car or onboard the TranzAlpine Train. On the eastern side, you’ll see wide riverbeds and rows of beech forest. On the western side, you’ll see dense rainforest and deeply gorged rivers. Explore this natural wonder along hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, past massive limestone boulders, through caves, and to lookouts. If you’re visiting during winter, the ski fields are open and ready for you to enjoy.

Kepler Track

Immerse yourself amongst nature along the 60-kilometre Kepler Track. The track takes approximately four days to complete leading you along beautiful ridgelines with epic views of mountains, lakes, and wilderness. You will feel like you are walking on top of the world. If a 60-kilometre hike isn’t your thing, the Kepler Track is broken up into sections so you can choose a track based on your fitness level. The Kepler Track is easily accessible from Tasman Holiday Parks – Te Anau. Please note, the Kepler Track must be booked in advance during peak season (late October to late April). During winter (May to October) the track has reduced facilities and additional safety risks due to avalanches.

New Zealand Experiences for the Foodies

From quirky bars to gorgeous wineries, New Zealand has it all!

Smash Palace Christchurch

For a quirky little bar that serves good burgers, locally brewed beer and other refreshing bevies, look no further than Smash Palace in Christchurch. Originally, this local favourite was called Goodbye Blue Monday before it came tumbling down in the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. Reborn from the ashes of tragedy, it has a real community feel and is a great way to immerse yourself in the New Christchurch.   

Taste of Plenty

Taste the local flavours the Bay of Plenty has to offer on the Taste of Plenty food tour. Sample food from restaurants, markets, specialty food shops and hole in the wall production facilities. This is perfect for those that love good food as well as a little history of the local area. Tours are for small groups from six to 14 people but can cater for larger or private groups on request.

Pegasus Bay Winery

New Zealand is home to some of the most world-renowned wineries. When staying in Christchurch you can’t go past the Pegasus Bay Winery. Located in Canterbury, just a 40 minutes drive from Christchurch, you can enjoy some of the region’s finest wines. Choose from a range of local bites from the onsite deli, pop them in a basket along with a bottle of your favourite drop and enjoy a picnic in the gardens. They also have wine tasting seven days a week from 10am to 5pm.

New Zealand Experiences for the Relaxation Lovers

Relax and unwind with natural hot pools and spas.

Natural Hot Pools

New Zealand has no shortage of natural hot pools. This is because New Zealand is positioned where two tectonic plates meet causing geothermal activity. This allows warm water to bubble up through to the earth’s surface forming natural hot pools. It is believed that the high volume of minerals in these pools has natural healing properties. Some are free to visit whilst others have an entry fee. One of the many hot pools the whole family can enjoy is Hanmer Springs. Kids will love the activity pool, cascade pools, lazy river, and water slides. If you’re visiting without kids, enjoy one of New Zealand’s premier day spas with a wide range of therapies available.

Hot Spa and Sauna

Visit Tasman Holiday Parks Lake Te Anau and enjoy a wooden barrel hot tub overlooking the picturesque Lake Te Anau. The lake is as still as glass mirroring the magnificent snow-capped mountains that tower from above. To top it off, finish your restoration session with some time in a Scandinavian inspired barrel sauna.  You can book your private spa session ahead of time to avoid disappointment. For guests, it costs $30 for two people and $10 per additional person. For non-staying guests, it’s $60 for two people and an additional $20 per additional person. For the sauna, staying guests can use it for free and for non-staying guests a $10 fee applies. In between each session, the spa is scrubbed and topped up when needed. It is emptied at the end of every day and thoroughly cleaned. It is then refilled the following day ready for the first session.

Book your New Zealand holiday today.

What to Pack for a New Zealand Holiday

New Zealand Holiday Essentials

New Zealand is a wonderful country to visit no matter the season. It’s the country that has it all from snow-capped mountains to beautiful beaches, from urban cities to majestic fjords, it truly is one of the most scenic places on this planet. The good news is we can now start travelling to NZ from Australia with New Zealand’s border opening. With so much to do and the changing seasons, it can be challenging to put together a packing list. Below is a list of essentials for the various seasons to make it a little easier.

New Zealand holiday in summer

New Zealand summer is from December to February. The summer time is balmy and pleasant with daytime temperatures ranging between 21°C to 32°C. It’s relatively dry during summer so leave the raincoats and umbrellas at home.

In summer, enjoy the many stunning beaches New Zealand has to offer. Visit the laidback coastal town of Papamoa Beach or the safest surf break in New Zealand at Waihi Beach. There are many places to go and enjoy the great outdoors on hiking and cycling trails or enjoy the city life in New Zealand’s urban cities.

New Zealand summer is balmy and pleasant, perfect for surfing, cycling and more!

What to pack for a New Zealand Holiday in summer

  • Be sun safe: Make sure you pack a hat, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing to cover your shoulders when out and about. The UV can be quite high during summer so slip, slop and slap.
  • Comfortable summer clothing: New Zealand has plenty of hiking and cycling trails, so make sure you bring a range of comfortable summer clothing. Pack t-shirts, shorts and light long pants for outdoor activities.
  • Walking shoes and socks: If you plan on exploring New Zealand’s wilderness (which we highly recommend) make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes and socks.
  • Swimwear and towel: New Zealand has many places to enjoy a cool dip. From beautiful beaches, lakes, and rivers, be sure to pack your swimwear to enjoy.
  • Sandals and thongs: For lazy days around the beach or caravan park, pack some lightweight and comfortable shoes.
  • Going out clothes: For the long lunches and nights out, make sure you pack a nice going out outfit and shoes.

New Zealand holiday in Autumn

Autumn in New Zealand is from March through to May. It’s a great time to travel because you can still enjoy the sunshine without the crowds. Temperatures range from 7°C to 21°C.

Make the most of the warmer weather before winter arrives. Enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves against a backdrop of blue skies. Venture off on one of the many hiking tracks, take a dip in the ocean, explore the cities, or go fishing.   

Enjoy beautiful autumn leaves from March through to May.

Milford Sound, South Island

What to pack for a New Zealand holiday in autumn

  • Wind and rain resistant coat: Autumn inNew Zealand can be a littlechilly and wet at times. Pack a wind and rain resistant coat so you’re prepared for all kinds of weather.
  • Be sun safe: The sun is still strong in Autumn so make sure you pack a hat, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing to cover your shoulders when out and about.
  • Comfortable clothing for layering: New Zealand can get a little chilly at times during Autumn. Pack lightweight clothing that you can layer when exploring the great outdoors.
  • Walking shoes and socks: It occasionally rains during autumn so pack walking shoes with good grip. Sometimes walking paths can be a little slippery after a good drenching.  
  • Swimwear and towel: The water is still warm enough to enjoy a quick dip. Pack your swimwear and a towel.
  • Going out clothes: For nights on the town pack warmer clothing as it gets a little chilly. Pack nice pants, tops, shoes, and jackets to enjoy New Zealand’s nightlife.

New Zealand holiday in winter

Winter in New Zealand is from June through to August. It snows in parts of the country and rains more regularly than in the warmer months. The temperature ranges from 1.5°C to 15.5°C and plumates below 0°C in the mountain regions.

Winter is the perfect time to hit the ski slopes. Spend your days skiing, snowboarding or hiking and finish the day with a nice hot spa and sauna. Spend your nights cozy by the fire with a mulled wine and good food.

What to pack for a New Zealand holiday in winter

Enjoy skiing and snow with a New Zealand winter escape.

  • Ski gear: When travelling to this winter wonderland you’re going to need snow gear. If you don’t have your own there are plenty of places to hire your gear from.  
  • Thermal clothing: Thermal clothing is great to wear under your clothes to provide that extra warmth on those really cold days. 
  • Warm coat: New Zealand can get quite cold during winter. Pack a nice everyday coat to keep you warm on your outdoor ventures. Something that is wind and rain proof is ideal.
  • Beanie, scarf and gloves: For those extra cold days rug up with the winter essentials.
  • Swimwear: New Zealand has some amazing hot springs, spas and saunas to warm yourself on those cold winter days.
  • Walking shoes and socks: Make sure they have good grip because walking tracks can be a little slippery with ice and rain.
  • Going out clothes: The nights are cold in winter so pack nice going pants, jeans, long sleeve tops and knits as well as a warm coat.

New Zealand holiday in spring

Spring in New Zealand is from September through to November. The temperature ranges from 4.5°C to 18°C. The days are sunny, the mornings are crisp and there are few showers here and there.

The ski season runs until late September, so you still have time to visit the snowfields. Spring is a great time to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or hiking without the crowds that winter and summer have.

New Zealand spring brings crisp mornings and sunny days.

What to pack for a New Zealand holiday in spring

  • Ski gear: The snow season finishes at the end of September so there is still time to hit the slopes. If you don’t have your own there are plenty of places to hire your gear from. 
  • Wind and rain resistant coat: Spring is still a little chilly so pack a wind and rain resistant coat.
  • Be sun safe: Pack a hat, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing to cover your shoulders when out and about.
  • Comfortable clothing for layering: Pack lightweight clothing and thermals so you can layer on those cooler days.
  • Walking shoes and socks: Pack walking shoes with good grip. Sometimes walking paths can be a little slippery in wet and icy conditions. 
  • Swimwear and towel: Bring your swimwear for hot tubs, spas and saunas.
  • Going out clothes: Pack nice pants, tops, knits, light scarves, shoes, and jackets to enjoy New Zealand’s nightlife. 

First of its Kind, Exclusive Glamping Tents to Rebound Tourism in Airlie Beach

Rapidly expanding tourism group Tasman Holiday Parks is gearing up to launch Airlie Beach’s first ever glamping tents as the Whitsunday region re-opens post Covid looking for new adventures.

Tasman Holiday Park – Airlie Beach has created five fully airconditioned, ultra-luxe glamping tents with each tent boasting three spacious bedrooms with an ensuite, a modern kitchenette, and a capacious dining and living room.

Glamping guests can enjoy high quality park amenities including a resort pool, BBQ areas, pedal kart buggy hire, tennis court, mini golf, playgrounds, and a complimentary bird feeding experience.

Tasman Holiday Park – Airlie Beach is positioned at the gateway of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef where guests can relish in a tropical oasis and explore the scenic views of the rainforest and secluded beaches.

Tasman Holiday Parks CEO Nikki Milne says the launch of the glamping tents will accommodate to the increasing demand for new and refreshing ways to holiday as borders reopen.

“Glamping is an emerging mega-trend, and these environmentally sustainable glamping tents will provide our guests with an upmarket camping experience with all the comforts of home,” said Ms Milne.

“With the demand of glamping growing rapidly, Tasman Holiday Parks are leading the way by accommodating to the modern traveller’s desire for luxurious, one-of-a-kind experiences.

“The arrival of our exclusive glamping tents will play a key role in our post covid rebound,

delivering wonderful guest experiences and the highest quality parks to welcome back our customers.”

Tasman Holiday Parks has identified the emerging opportunities in the tourism sector now that travel restrictions are beginning to ease in a post-COVID environment and are expecting a surge of travel demand as borders reopen across Australia.

“The reopening of state borders in Australia has seen a surge in the travel market which we believe will continue especially with international travel restrictions also easing,” said Ms Milne.

“We are anticipating a strengthening of our domestic travel markets and we believe this will translate to a robust demand for all of our holiday parks as holiday goers make a comeback,” said Ms Milne.

Holiday makers can secure a night of ultimate luxury among the stars from only $199 per night.

Tasman Holiday Parks are the fastest growing owner, developer & operator of holiday parks across Australia and New Zealand.

With more than 4,000 sites across 26 iconic locations, Tasman Holiday Parks welcomes more than 325,000 guests each year.

Rare One in Five Year Draining Event in the Works for Popular Lake

Holiday-goers will be given a unique opportunity to observe an unrecognisable Lake Mulwala when its water levels are lowered for environmental rehabilitation in June.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Lake Mulwala sits at the gateway to Yarrawonga’s renowned water sport precinct, set directly on the shores of Lake Mulwala, and will offer spectators an unparalleled front row experience to the one in five-year draining event.

Tasman Holiday Parks CEO Nikki Milne says Tasman Holiday Parks are proud to be supporting the environmental practices of the area and looks forward to re-opening a cleaner lake to future visitors.

“While we regret to announce water activities will be limited during this time, the draining of the lake offers an excellent opportunity for the community and visitors to witness a once in five-year event from the comfort of premium holiday facilities,” said Ms Milne.

“During the draining period, Tasman Holiday Parks – Lake Mulwala will still be a slice of paradise and as soon as you step through the gates, you will know you’ve arrived somewhere special you can unwind and truly relax.

“This season will showcase a very different Lake Mulwala to what many regular holiday makers may be used to, providing guests with a unique way of experiencing the area

“Guests can venture out to explore the region’s history, food and wine, clubs and entertainment or go for a stroll through nature, take in the picturesque sunset, or simply relax by our pool.

Featuring contemporary self-contained villas and a range of spacious caravan and camping sites, Tasman Holiday Parks – Lake Mulwala is a pet friendly venue and offers an exciting range of high-energy activities for all ages such as scenic bicycle and walking tracks, pedal karts for hire, an opulent pool, tennis courts, jumping pillow and playground.

Lowering the level of Lake Mulwala will assist with waterweed control and is set to commence early in May 2022.

“Lake Mulwala is used as a popular water-skiing and boating spot, and the waterweed can make it difficult for our guests to launch boats, fish, swim or water ski without getting tangled in the weed,” said Ms Milne.

“Extensive consultations between the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) and Goulburn-Murray Water were had to ensure the timing and extent of the lowering has the best results with as little impact as possible.

“It is important the waterweed issue is combatted this winter to improve the condition of the lake for the community, visitors, and the health of the lake itself.

“Tasman Holiday Park is an advocate for the importance of environmental care, and we are committed to providing our guests with sustainable holidaying.”

Lake Mulwala is expected to be back to its operating levels by early August.

Yarrawonga, which is part of the Moira Shire region, is renowned for the array of festivals and activities held in the area throughout the year and the region welcomes up to 1 million visitors per annum.

Three Incredible Day Trips from Airlie Beach

Check out our top three day trips from Airlie Beach.

At the heart of Queensland’s Whitsundays region, you’ll find the beautiful, tropical, laid-back coastal town of Airlie Beach. There is so much fun to be had here like visiting beautiful tropical beaches, wandering through lush rainforests, and dining out in award-winning restaurants and cafes. But if we had to pick our top three-day trips from Airlie Beach it would have to be the pristine Whitehaven Beach, the incredible Great Barrier Reef, and the natural beauty of Cedar Creek Falls. Read on to find out why.

Whitehaven Beach

Picture this, a bright white sandy beach stretching for seven kilometres with clear swirls of turquoise waters as far as the eye can see. The water is warm, and the sun is out. It’s the perfect place to relax and experience one of Australia’s most iconic and beautiful beaches.

Protected by the Whitsundays Islands National Park, Whitehaven Beach has been voted as the world’s top eco-friendly beach as well as Queensland’s cleanest beach. To get a good look at this pristine beach, make your way to Tongue Point. From here you will be able to see a beautiful tapestry of colours, especially during low tide. Down below on the sandy beach, you may get lucky and spot turtles and dolphins swimming through the water.            

It’s 33km between Airlie and Whitehaven Beach and there are a few ways to get there. For a speedy trip of just under an hour, travel by high-speed boat or for a cruisier option, travel by sailboat which will take about two hours. For something a little more luxurious, you can take a scenic flight on board a helicopter or seaplane and be there in as little as 15 minutes. This is a great option for a birds-eye view of Whitehaven Beach and its surroundings.

Picture this, a bright white sandy beach stretching for seven kilometres with clear swirls of turquoise waters as far as the eye can see.

Great Barrier Reef

You can’t visit Airlie Beach and not spend a day exploring one of Australia’s great natural wonders, The Great Barrier Reef. Made up of the largest collection of coral reefs in the world, it covers an area of 348,000 square kilometres and can even be seen from space.

There are many ways to explore the reef depending on your style and budget. To get a close look down below, join a guided scuba dive or snorkel tour. There are many dive operators in Airlie Beach that will take you out on a day trip by boat. Once under the water, you can expect to see a colourful display of coral, tropical fish, sharks, rays, turtles and more.

To get a look from above, there are many cruising options from catamarans, yachts, and speed boats. You can travel by boat to a pontoon in the middle of the reef where you can spend the day. Here you can laze about the sundeck or use the snorkel equipment provided to get a closer look.

To travel in style, take a scenic flight for a bird’s eye view of the reef. From up above you will be able to see the beautiful colours of the water, islands, and reef. An experience like no other that you will remember for the rest of your life.

The Great Barrier Reef. Made up of the largest collection of coral reefs in the world…

Cedar Creek Falls

Cedar Creek Falls is a natural waterhole with a stunning waterfall. Just 30 kilometres from Airlie Beach, it’s a short drive to spend a day surrounded by natural beauty. It’s the perfect place to escape the tropical heat and do as little or as much as you like.

Trek along the bushwalking track through white cedar trees and spot the local wildlife on your travels. There are plenty of native birds, lizards, and butterflies along the track. After working up a sweat take a dip in the waterhole whilst listening to the water gush down the cliff face. You may even spot a turtle or two taking a swim.

Pack a picnic lunch, plenty of water and sunscreen and spend the day enjoying this tranquil sanctuary of total bliss.

Cedar Creek Falls is a natural waterhole with a stunning waterfall.

Book your trip to Airlie Beach and stay at Tasman Holiday Parks – Airlie Beach. Create beautiful moments exploring the tropical coastline, beaches or getting out to the reef. Then, when you come home there is everything you need to relax, play, and cook up a storm for dinner in this beautiful Airlie Beach caravan park.

Celebrating Culinary Careers Fundraising Cocktail Event

Tasman Holiday Parks is proud to support local communities with our upcoming sponsorship of the Echuca Regional Health Fundraising event.

On Friday the 8th April, the Celebrating Culinary Careers Fundraising Dinner will take place at The Wharf in Echuca. Hosted by Echuca Regional Health (ERH) in conjunction with Kagome Australia, proceeds from the event will go towards the new ERH Cancer and Wellness Centre.

The Cancer and Wellness Centre will help offer better access to cancer care for those in the area, as well as provide support for the patient and family throughout treatment.

The event is a chance to mingle with celebrity chefs and take part in the evening’s auctions, helping raise money for this incredible cause. Enjoy an amazing range of cocktail food prepared by celebrity chefs George Calombaris, Ryan Stevenson, Glenn Austin and Luke Croston.

The event is held at the Echuca Wharf, a historic timber wharf along the Murray River. Experience and learn about the history of the area at the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. The Port of Echuca was built in 1865 and is known as one of Australia’s finest heritage icons. It’s the perfect place to learn and indulge in the history of the area!

Where & When:

The historic Echuca Wharf is known as one of Australia’s finest heritage icons.

When: Friday 8th April 2022, 6.00pm – 11.00pm.

Where: The Wharf, Murray Esplanade, Echuca, Victoria, 3564

You can check out more about this event and purchase your tickets here.

What is there to do in Echuca Moama?

Echuca and Moama are twin towns on either side of the Murray River, with Echuca on the Victorian side and Moama on the NSW side. Both are the perfect place for your next foodie and cultural escape, with plenty of restaurants, activities, and museums to enjoy. It’s a great destination for a romantic couple’s holiday, or fun for the whole family!

The Murray River is Australia’s longest river, flowing 2,530km across southeastern Australia. Enjoy stand up paddleboarding, canoeing, boating, river cruisers and more along the river.

After a long day exploring, check out some of the local eateries and dine on delicious food. Echuca Moama is a haven for adventurous foodies!

What are the best activities to do in Echuca Moama?

Enjoy a dinner cruise or visit the Echuca Chocolate Company.

One of the best activities to enjoy in Echuca Moama is a paddle steamer boat cruise. Echuca Moama has the largest fleet of operating paddle steamers in the world – so your holiday isn’t complete without experiencing a trip on one!

Why not check out a sightseeing cruise, or even a lunch or dinner cruise? It’s the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take in the sights.

Another great way to enjoy the foodie scene in Echuca Moama is with a delicious lunch at a local winery. Echuca Moama is home to a selection of local and regional wineries, breweries and a distillery, so there is something for everyone. Relax with local drinks and cuisine with a long lunch at one of the wineries or breweries in the area.

Chocolate lovers rejoice! Another must-do in Echuca Moama is a visit to the Echuca Chocolate Company. Located in the old Echuca Port precinct, the Echuca Chocolate Company create delicious fresh chocolates by hand and offer an incredible chocolate liqueur collection. Head along for a free liqueur tasting, and don’t forget to take home some chocolate souvenirs!

Where to stay for your next escape?

Looking for the perfect accommodation for your Moama holiday? Tasman Holiday Parks – Moama on the Murray offers the best of nature and luxury. With a resort style swimming pool, gorgeous villas and plenty of activities for the kids, it’s the perfect base for your Echuca Moama holiday. Located right along the iconic Murray River, you’re a stone’s throw from everything that the area has to offer.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Merool on the Murray is another great caravan park and caravan accommodation option for your Echuca Moama holiday. With 25 hectares of land and 1.5 kilometres of Murray River frontage, there’s plenty to explore. Relax by the lagoon style pool, enjoy the community veggie garden, and make the most of the games room. Merool on the Murray has options for every budget, with cabins, caravan sites and powered sites.