New Zealand’s long summer break is the perfect opportunity for families to head overseas together. December to February offers warm weather, school holidays, and a chance to explore cultures, cuisines, and attractions that appeal to all ages. For Kiwi families, the best international destinations tend to share a few key qualities: manageable flight times, family-friendly accommodation, reliable infrastructure, and plenty of activities that keep children entertained while still giving parents room to relax.
Below are five international summer holiday destinations that continue to be popular with New Zealand families. Each offers good value, a strong safety record, and memorable experiences for kids and adults alike.
Australia (Gold Coast, Queensland)
Average flight time from Auckland: Around 3 to 3.5 hours
Cost compared to New Zealand: Similar to slightly cheaper overall
Australia remains the most popular overseas destination for Kiwi families, and the Gold Coast is often the top pick. The short flight time, familiar culture, and abundance of family attractions make it an easy and reassuring choice, especially for families travelling with younger children.
Accommodation ranges from budget apartments to family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs and water parks. Food prices are similar to New Zealand, with casual meals typically costing NZD $18–$25 per person, and family accommodation often comparable or slightly cheaper than major New Zealand cities.
For kids, the Gold Coast is hard to beat. Theme parks such as Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, and Wet’n’Wild can easily fill several days. Outside the parks, families can enjoy safe, patrolled beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and gentle rainforest walks in nearby national parks.
The Gold Coast is considered very safe, particularly in tourist areas, with good healthcare access and excellent emergency services. December to February is hot and sunny, with temperatures typically between 24°C and 30°C. Afternoon storms are common but brief, often offering a welcome break from the heat.
Top foods to try include fresh barramundi or fish and chips by the beach, and Australian-style burgers or BBQ platters that are well suited to family dining.
For more planning inspiration, Tourism and Events Queensland provides detailed family travel guides and attraction information.
Fiji
Average flight time from Auckland: Around 3 hours
Cost compared to New Zealand: Generally cheaper for food, similar for resorts
Fiji has long been a favourite with Kiwi families, thanks to its warm hospitality and relaxed island atmosphere. Many resorts are specifically designed with families in mind, offering kids’ clubs, babysitting services, and activities that allow parents to unwind.
While resort accommodation can be similar in price to New Zealand hotels, food outside resorts is often more affordable, with local meals costing around NZD $10–$15. Family packages and all-inclusive deals can also offer good value during the New Zealand summer.
Children love Fiji’s calm lagoons, snorkelling opportunities, cultural village visits, and hands-on activities such as coconut husking or traditional crafts. Many resorts offer supervised programmes, allowing kids to make friends while learning about Fijian culture.
Fiji is considered very safe for tourists, particularly within resort areas. Locals are welcoming, and family travel is common. December to February is hot and humid, with temperatures around 26°C to 31°C. It is cyclone season, but serious weather events are relatively rare, and resorts are well prepared.
Two must-try foods are kokoda, a Fijian dish made from raw fish marinated in coconut cream and citrus, and lovo-cooked meats and vegetables, traditionally prepared in an underground oven.
For destination inspiration and family-friendly resorts, Tourism Fiji offers helpful planning resources.
Japan (Tokyo and Osaka)
Average flight time from Auckland: Around 11 hours
Cost compared to New Zealand: Food cheaper, accommodation similar to slightly higher
Japan has become increasingly popular with Kiwi families seeking a culturally rich yet surprisingly family-friendly destination. Despite the longer flight, Japan’s efficiency, cleanliness, and safety make it appealing even with children.
Food is one of Japan’s biggest advantages for families on a budget. Meals at casual restaurants often cost NZD $10–$15, and convenience stores offer high-quality, affordable options. Accommodation can be more expensive, but family rooms and apartment hotels help manage costs.
For children, Japan offers theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, interactive museums, animal attractions, and excellent public transport that feels like an adventure in itself. Vending machines, capsule toys, and quirky shops also delight younger travellers.
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with extremely low crime rates. December to February is winter, particularly in Tokyo and Osaka, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C. While cold, the season brings clear skies, fewer crowds, and magical winter illuminations that children often love.
Two iconic foods to try are ramen, with many child-friendly variations, and takoyaki, bite-sized octopus balls popular in Osaka and easy for kids to share.
The Japan National Tourism Organization provides practical advice and family travel itineraries.
Singapore
Average flight time from Auckland: Around 10.5 hours
Cost compared to New Zealand: Food cheaper, accommodation more expensive
Singapore is a compact, clean, and extremely organised destination that works well for families. While hotels can be pricier than in New Zealand, food is very affordable if you eat at hawker centres, where meals often cost NZD $8–$12.
Singapore excels at family attractions. The Singapore Zoo and Night Safari are world-class, Gardens by the Bay feels like a futuristic playground, and Sentosa Island offers beaches, Universal Studios, and adventure parks. Public transport is easy to use with children and stroller-friendly.
Safety is one of Singapore’s strongest selling points. It consistently ranks among the safest countries globally, with strict laws and excellent healthcare. December to February is warm and humid, with temperatures around 25°C to 31°C. Short rain showers are common but rarely disrupt full days.
Top foods to try include chicken rice, a simple and kid-friendly national dish, and roti prata, a flaky flatbread often served with mild curry or sugar.
Family-friendly attraction guides can be found on the Visit Singapore tourism website.
United States (California)
Average flight time from Auckland: Around 12 hours to Los Angeles
Cost compared to New Zealand: More expensive overall
For families willing to travel further, California offers an iconic summer holiday experience. While flights and accommodation can be costly, the variety of attractions often makes it worthwhile, especially for older children and teens.
Food prices vary, but casual dining typically costs NZD $20–$30 per person. Accommodation near major attractions can be expensive, though apartment rentals help reduce costs for families.
Kids are drawn to Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, LEGOLAND California, Pacific Coast beaches, and attractions such as San Diego Zoo. Planning tips and ticket information for families visiting Disneyland can be found via the official Disneyland California site, which is particularly helpful during peak seasons. Road trips are also popular, allowing families to explore at their own pace.
Tourist areas in California are generally safe, though families should stay aware in busy city centres. December to February brings mild winter weather, with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C depending on location, making sightseeing comfortable and theme parks less crowded.
Two classic foods to try are American pancakes or waffles for breakfast, and California-style tacos or burritos, which are easy to share and widely available.
The Visit California tourism website offers destination guides and family itineraries.
Why Travel Insurance Matters for Summer Family Holidays
No matter how carefully you plan, travelling with children always carries extra risks. From unexpected illness and cancelled flights to lost luggage or activity-related injuries, issues can arise quickly and become costly, particularly overseas.
Travel insurance helps protect your family against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unforeseen disruptions, giving you peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your holiday. This is especially important during the busy summer period, when delays and weather-related disruptions are more common.
Before travelling, Kiwi families are encouraged to arrange comprehensive cover that suits their destination, length of stay, and planned activities. You can visit the Go Insurance New Zealand homepage to get started on a free quote and ensure your family is protected before you depart.
With the right planning and insurance in place, an international summer holiday can be one of the most rewarding experiences your family shares, creating memories that last long after the suitcases are unpacked.