At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
When travelling with children, you need to be able to whip up a meal when it suits you best. Have your own kitchen and plenty of space to play outside in nature. We will ensure your accommodation has all the comforts of home.
A farm-stay with quirky animals. A cottage nestled in nature. Stay lakeside in a villa surrounded by towering mountains. A classic holiday house with a massive green backyard and a pool. A family holiday where the accommodation leaves a lasting impression on the kids! A place for them to make new discoveries in wide-open spaces.
Discover how small-scale accommodation makes your holiday better
Look inside our very comfortable accommodations for families
Tauranga, New Zealand
A beautiful beachfront accommodation featuring an ocean view
Kapiti Island, New Zealand
A great place to spot unique birds
Abel Tasman, New Zealand
Set in an idyllic garden landscape
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Set in a peaceful setting with impressive mountain views
Catlins, New Zealand
A lodge close to the ocean with beautiful garden views
Whangarei & Tutukaka Coast, New Zealand
An eco-friendly holiday house set on the Whangarei Heads
Franz Josef & Fox, New Zealand
Located in the rainforest of Franz Josef National Park
Punakaiki, New Zealand
A beach front Kiwi bach surrounded by gardens and native bush on the wild West Coast.
Punakaiki, New Zealand
Nestled in the native bush on the South Island's West Coast
Abel Tasman, New Zealand
This beautiful home is nestled on over 20 acres of pristine native bush
"One of my favourite small-scale accommodations is run by Peter and Jenny. They are one of the friendliest couples, I've ever met."
Bart, Travel specialist
View the other types of accommodations
Available for all your questions
Simply contact us for personal advice
No question is too crazy. Our experienced travel experts are available to personally assist you with your dream holiday to New Zealand.
Good to know
At TravelEssence, we almost exclusively book local, small-scale accommodations, run by locals because of their sustainable choices, regional products and care for their environment; but also to support local employment.
Best travel time
Travelling with primary-aged children means you will need to travel during school holidays. And, if you are travelling as far as New Zealand you want to travel for at least three weeks. This makes travelling during your summer holidays (winter in New Zealand) the best option.The winter months in New Zealand are from June to August. Soak up views of snow-capped mountains and enjoy fewer crowds. The perfect time for hikes and bike rides. We have personally travelled with our own children and have experience designing stress-free holidays with a relaxed travel schedule.
In the North Island, winters are mild with average temperatures between 10 and 16 degrees. The South Island is often snowing and has generally colder temperatures. Enjoy the snow and go skiing/snowboarding at Mount Hutt, Cardrona, The Remarkables, Treble Cone and Coronet Peak.
Discover more about travelling with your family
Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.