Family-friendly things to do in and around Naseby
A town that moves at your pace
Naseby is big enough to keep everyone entertained, but small enough that you do not spend half the day in the car. From the apartments it is a short walk or drive to the forest, reservoirs and a large playground directly across the road, as well as the local pub, so you can plan your days around energy levels and the weather.
The historic buildings, old water races and other relics from the gold era turn even a simple walk into a mini adventure, with plenty for kids to notice along the way.
- Quiet streets and a relaxed pace, even in school holidays
- Forest, dams and trails within a few minutes of your apartment
- Plenty of space to burn off energy in the fresh mountain air
Summer days at the Naseby Swimming Dam
On warm summer days the Naseby Swimming Dam is a natural magnet for families. The water is usually calm, the surroundings are sheltered by trees and there are shallow edges where smaller children can splash close to shore while older kids swim further out or jump off the diving board when conditions allow.
Bring towels, snacks, inflatables or a stand up paddle board and make an afternoon of it. There are picnic spots around the water and flat space for a blanket, simple games or a quiet lie in the sun after a swim.
- Calm water swimming in a sheltered forest setting
- Easy access for families with gear, chilly bins and toys
- Remember to supervise children closely and check local conditions before swimming
Short loops and treasure hunts
The tracks around the main reservoir and nearby dams are ideal for shorter legs, and several of the wider gravel paths are suitable for sport strollers as well. Many routes can be turned into simple loops that start and finish at the car, with plenty of points along the way to stop for snacks, skim stones or look for trout and native birds.
The combination of forest, water and gold mining history makes it easy to turn a walk into a treasure hunt. Kids can look out for old water races, stone walls and rusted relics amongst the trees while adults enjoy the peace and the fresh air.
- Choose short circuits that can be finished in 30-60 minutes
- Mix walking with time spent playing by the water
- Pack layers - even on hot days the forest can feel cool in the shade
Confidence-building rides in the forest
Naseby Forest has a network of flat or gently rolling forestry roads that are perfect for younger riders. You can keep things very simple with an out-and-back ride to one of the dams, or link a few roads together to create your own loop, returning to town or your apartment.
More confident kids and teenagers can try selected beginner friendly singletrack, while adults who ride regularly will find plenty of more technical options. For a deeper dive into biking around Naseby, see the dedicated Outdoor adventures page.
- Flat gravel roads ideal for balance bikes and first gears
- Short circuits that can start directly from Naseby Apartments
- Option to split the group so everyone rides at their own level
Thrills at Maniototo Adventure Park
Just a few minutes from Naseby Apartments, Maniototo Adventure Park is home to the Gold Rush summer luge - a purpose built downhill cart track that winds through the pine forest. It is suitable for kids and adults, with full equipment and tuition provided so you can build confidence at your own pace.
In winter the same park becomes a hub for ice skating, indoor curling and the ice luge. Curling is suitable for children when supervised by adults, and the indoor rink makes it an easy all weather option. Either way, Maniototo Adventure Park is a genuine highlight for many families staying in Naseby.
- Book a family luge session and share runs between adults and kids
- Combine a luge session with a walk, bike ride or picnic in the forest
- Check the adventure park website for current opening dates, age limits and pricing
Space to breathe: Why families love our apartments
Where you stay can make or break a family holiday. Instead of being cramped in a single hotel room, our Naseby Apartments offer the space of a real home. With separate bedrooms, comfortable living areas and full kitchens, you can spread out, relax and find your own rhythm.
Flexible bedding setups work perfectly for siblings or extended family, and having a kitchen means easy breakfasts and stress-free dinners. It’s the perfect balance of holiday adventure and home comfort.
- Separate bedrooms mean better sleep for everyone
- Full kitchens for easy meals without the restaurant price tag
- Plenty of room for toys, drying gear and quiet downtime
For full details of layouts, bedding and facilities, see the Apartments page.
Explore more Naseby themes
Many families combine a stay in Naseby with other interests - from more adventurous biking and 4WD trips to dark sky stargazing and winter sports. Each of these themes has its own short guide so you can plan a visit that suits everyone.
See all themes on the main Things to do in Naseby page.
Ready for a stress-free family break?
Naseby is the easy choice for family time. Swimming, walks and biking are right on your doorstep, and our spacious apartments give you the flexibility to enjoy it all at your own pace.
Most families find that 2-3 nights gives them enough time to explore, relax and make memories without rushing.