Finding family fun

• Published date: 17 October 2023
• Publication title: Ensign, The

WE all know gathering the troops for a family getaway can be a tricky task. Hunting down kid-friendly outdoor excursions or all-ages entertainment at a theme park or museum can be no mean feat. But when it comes to endless options for the whole whānau, you can’t beat a jaunt across the Tasman. Whether you’re a sporty bunch, prefer the city scene, looking for off-track adventures or want a bit of everything, here are some of Australia’s best family activities

Nature’s playground

If you’re headed for Perth/Boorloo, be sure to take an adventure to the other-worldly Pinnacles at Nambung National Park. Located near the coastal town of Cervantes, the park features desert sands as far as the eye can see and a slew of large limestone spires. Let the kids loose to burn off steam and explore the rocks up close, and get a fun history lesson on the area through the interactive displays at the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre. The park is about 2.5 hours’ drive from Perth along the scenic Indian Ocean Drive, or you can join a coach tour and let someone else do the driving. While you’re there, call in at nearby Jurien Bay for a splash in the turquoise waters and the chance to spot the town’s friendly resident seals. turquoisesafaris.com.au

Down in Tasmania, get underground at the magical Hastings Caves. Hidden beneath dense rainforest, the enormous subterranean labyrinth includes the country’s largest dolomite cave accessible to visitors; spiky stalactites at every turn and a vast system of echoey chambers to explore. The kid-friendly guided tours bring fascinating details about the history of the caves to life and most of the walking trails are accessible for prams or small legs. Above ground, relax in the swimming pool fed by the nearby thermal springs or venture further into Hastings Caves State Reserve for easy walking tracks and a picnic among the trees. parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/hastings-caves-state-reserve

Fishy friends

A mere 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane, Moreton Island is a sandy spot known for its steep dunes, pristine beaches and snorkel-friendly shipwrecks close to shore. It’s ideal for a day trip with the whānau, but a stay at the Tangalooma Island Resort lets you take part in the dolphin feeding programme with some of the island’s most memorable inhabitants. Here, a family of bottlenose dolphins are regular visitors, and in the right weather, resort guests can book small group night tours to hand feed the flippered friends. Best suited for...