As any parents know, the way to keep kids engaged is to have something interesting for them to do, see or ride. Your best bet is to keep it short, sharp and fun.

New Zealand is blessed with a myriad of outdoor adventures, but there’s also a lot going on in terms of less active attractions.

Hobbiton is a favourite with little kids and big kids (adults!) alike, while caves and glow worms, as in Waitomo and Te Anau, are always good fun.

In Auckland, a ride up the Sky Tower is enthralling, while you’ll find SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium along Tamaki Drive. A ferry ride to Devonport or Waiheke Island is also good fun.

Animals always capture attention. Auckland Zoo is popular, as are the Agrodome, near Rotorua, and the steamship TSS Earnslaw cruise with Walter Peak farm show in Queenstown.

Skyline’s aerial gondola operations in Rotorua and Queenstown offer a number of family friendly activities as well as the gondola.

Don’t miss Puzzling World if you’re in Wanaka.