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When you think of travelling New Zealand with kids, a few names usually spring to mind: Rotorua with its bubbling mud pools, Queenstown with its alpine adventures, or Hobbiton for a touch of movie magic. But tucked away in the heart of the North Island lies a hidden gem where families can slow down, connect, and experience Kiwi life at its most authentic: Awastone, Mangaweka.
Set beside the stunning Rangitīkei River, Awastone is more than just a stopover — it’s a riverside haven designed with families in mind. From kayaking to camping under the stars, fresh coffee to friendly faces, here’s why international families love making Awastone part of their New Zealand journey.
Parents often worry about safety when introducing their kids to river activities — and rightly so. At Awastone, the river becomes a playground that’s fun but family-friendly.
There’s something magical about camping in New Zealand — the sound of the river at night, native birds calling in the morning, and endless space for kids to run free. At Awastone, families can choose from:
Travelling with little ones can be tiring — sometimes you just want good coffee and food without firing up the camp stove. That’s where our Riverside Café comes in.
Evenings often bring live music or quiz nights, turning dinner into a family memory rather than a chore.
Awastone makes the perfect base camp for exploring the Rangitīkei region. Within a short drive, you’ll find:
We’ve hosted families from Germany, the US, and Australia who’ve all said the same thing: Awastone felt like “real New Zealand.” It’s not crowded, commercial, or hurried — just a welcoming riverside spot where kids can explore and parents can finally take a breath.
“It was our kids’ favourite stop in New Zealand — they still talk about paddling the Rangitīkei and the quiz night at the café!” – The Miller Family, Canada
Add Awastone to Your Family Itinerary
New Zealand is full of big-ticket attractions, but sometimes it’s the smaller, hidden places that create the most lasting family memories. At Awastone, your kids can paddle a kayak for the first time, roast marshmallows under the stars, or join locals for live music at the café — all in one riverside stop.
So next time you’re planning your Kiwi family adventure, remember: stay and play at Awastone. You’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll leave with stories your family will share for years.
