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Looking for an easy family getaway these school holidays? Horowhenua is closer than you think – and packed with adventures that keep kids (and parents) happy from sunrise to sunset. From forest walks to foodie treats, beach days to cultural gems, here’s how to spend 48 hours exploring our backyard.
Day one – nature & adventure
Morning: forest magic at Waitārere Beach
Kick off your holiday with fresh sea air at Waitārere Beach. Let the kids run wild on the wide sandy beach, hunt for driftwood treasures, or build sandcastles. Afterwards, wander into the towering pines of Waitārere Forest. The main trails are stroller-friendly, and older kids will love biking the forest tracks. For little adventurers, the Fairy Garden is a must – hidden gems, painted stones, and whimsical surprises bring a sense of magic to the walk. Round things out at the Middle Earth Playground, where climbing adventures spark the imagination and burn off that last bit of energy before lunch.
Afternoon: picnic & play
Head to Levin Adventure Park – a local favourite with giant slides, a flying fox, and plenty of space for a picnic lunch. Parents can grab a coffee nearby while the kids burn energy.
Evening: cosy dining
Round off the day with wood-fired pizza, craft burgers or Mexican fare from Cambridge Lane in Levin – perfect for sharing and guaranteed to keep everyone smiling.
Day two – culture & treats
Morning: discover Te Awahou Foxton
Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom is a must-visit for families. Inside, the Oranjehof Dutch Connection Centre and Piriharakeke Generation Inspiration Centre bring stories to life through interactive displays – kids can push, pull, and play their way through history, language, and culture. It’s hands-on learning that feels more like adventure than education.
When you’re ready for a change of pace, stroll next door to De Molen, the towering Dutch windmill, where you can see flour being milled the traditional way and pick up a bag to take home. From there, wander down Foxton’s main street to Mewington’s Bookshoppe, a treasure trove of quirky finds!
Afternoon: sweet stops & scenic walks
Pick up something delicious at Lewis Farms – their real fruit ice creams are a school holiday rite of passage. Once everyone’s recharged, head to the Queen Street East Walkway, a flat, family-friendly trail perfect for a relaxed stroll. If you’re up for a little extra exploring, duck off the path into the Waiopehu Scenic Reserve for an easy loop through lush native forest, where birdsong and greenery make it feel like a hidden world just minutes from town.
Evening: sunset by the Coast
Wrap up your 48 hours with fish and chips on Foxton Beach. Watch the sun sink into the Tasman while the kids race the waves – the perfect full-circle ending to a school holiday escape.
Where to stay
Whether you’re into camping under the stars, glamping with a touch of luxury, or settling into a cosy bach, Horowhenua has plenty of family-friendly stays to choose from:
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- Foxton Beach Holiday Park – A favourite with families, complete with a playground, giant jumping pillow, glamping tents, and the golden sands of Foxton Beach just a short stroll away.
- Levin Top 10 Holiday Park – Spacious grounds where kids can roam, paired with stunning views of the Tararua Range that make evenings feel extra special.
Or, for a home-away-from-home vibe, browse the many family-friendly holiday houses dotted throughout the district – perfect for spreading out, self-catering, and making memories together.