Scenic Drives with Plenty of Kid Friendly Stops along the Way

Whether you’re picking up your Dollar rental car on the North or South Island, a host of sensational scenic drives await. We’ve rounded up the best family-friendly routes, so all you need to do is follow this guide, sit back, and enjoy the ride.

Embrace the Picturesque Landscape on the Southern Scenic Route 

Nestled into the south-eastern edge of the South Island, Dunedin is a bustling city with plenty to explore. Once you’ve picked up your rental car from Dunedin airport, you can get on your way to the swathes of nature surrounding the city. You’ll be delighted by the bucketload of epic adventures on offer on the Southern Scenic Route, a beautiful stretch of road that connects Dunedin with the southern part of the South Island. Start in Dunedin and make your way to Invercargill to discover the beauty of New Zealand’s southern tip. As you leave Dunedin, stop at Nugget Point lighthouse - a spectacular building that sits at the point of what feels like the edge of the world. Watch as the waves crash against the shores and the ocean stretches out to the horizon. Fur seals are even known to frequent this area, so make sure the kids are keeping their eyes peeled for these curious creatures. As you wind your way to Invercargill, stop off at Balcultha, home of the Blair Athol Walkway. This makes for a scenic spot to stop and stretch your legs in between drives. Next, as you enter Invercargill, watch as the greenery makes way for the ocean as you thread your way to one of the island’s southernmost points. Invercargill is great for family adventures, boasting everything from the mountain bike trails to the Bill Richardson Transport world - a museum of vintage motors and old fashioned petrol pumps perfect for motor-obsessed little ones. 

Swim with Dolphins on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route 

Combine sensational landscape with thrilling family friendly activities on the Alpine Pacific Route in the heart of the South Island. Beginning in Christchurch, pick up your vehicle from Christchurch airport and head along the Kaikōura coastline. You’ll pass a network of surf beaches, wineries and fruitful farmland, before ending up on the spectacular coastline. The best way to explore the Kaikōura region is by embarking on a water cruise tour that will weave you through the soothing waves and past pockets of curious sea creatures. Watch out for whales as you cruise through the open ocean - these majestic animals are known to saunter through these waters. Take your adventure one step further by swimming with the dusky dolphins - an experience that the kids will remember forever. The dolphins are known to visit this area all year round, meaning that you can experience anything from 100 to 1000 of the magnificent sea creatures showing you the way as you float through the current of the ocean waves. 

Explore a Geothermal Wonderland in the North Island 

If you’re travelling in the North Island, one of the must-do scenic drives for families is the Thermal Explorer Highway. Beginning in Auckland, pick up your rental vehicle from the Auckland airport to get on your way. If you have some time to spare, make sure to explore the hustle and bustle of Auckland city, as well as the stunning West Coast beaches that surround this spectacular region. Next, venture to Rotorua to discover a playground of geothermal wonder. From bubbling pools at Waimangu Volcanic Valley to magical geysers that explode from the earth at Whakarewarewa Valley, including the magnificent 30 metre high Pohutu Geyser, Rotorua will no doubt stay with you long after your travels are over. Take in the epic scenery on a luge ride at Skyline Rotorua and cruise through ancient forests and down a dramatic slope. This is perfect for families seeking a thrill in between drives. There are also plenty of mountain bike trails that weave their way through the Redwood Forest of Rotorua if you’re looking for a way to experience all that this region has to offer. 

Whether you’re adventuring around the coast of the South Island or through the ancient geothermal wonders of the North Island, there are limitless adventures to be found in your Dollar rental car as you follow these scenic routes. The kids will love the activities awaiting them in all of these stunning locations, although there’s no denying that the beautiful drives are half the delight of these wonderful adventures.