In short
- Guided 4WD tours last 6 to 6.5 hours.
- Child tickets (6-15 years) cost NZ$70.
- Walking the base is a free, shorter alternative.
In this article
Farewell Spit is a highly protected nature reserve. Exploring the full spit means booking a long 4WD bus tour. You will need to decide if your children can handle a six-hour trip focused on birds and dunes.
How long is the Farewell Spit tour?
The guided 4WD bus tours take between 6 and 6.5 hours.
Tours depart from Collingwood. Departure times change daily based on the tides. You will spend a lot of time on a 4WD bus traveling along the sand. The tour stops at the lighthouse and large sand dunes to let passengers stretch their legs.
How much are child tickets for the Farewell Spit tour?
As of late 2026, a child ticket costs NZ$70.
This rate applies to children aged 6 to 15. Adult tickets cost NZ$220. If you have a large family, this can become an expensive day out. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Can you visit Farewell Spit for free with kids?
Yes, you can walk the first four kilometres of the spit for free.
Drive past Collingwood to Triangle Flat to park. From there, you can walk onto Inner Beach. This area has vast mudflats at low tide. It takes one to two hours and allows kids to burn off energy without a 4WD bus tour.
Will children enjoy the nature reserve?
The tours focus heavily on birdwatching and natural history.
Older children interested in wildlife often enjoy seeing the seals and migratory birds. Younger children might get bored during the long bus sections. Climbing the Barchan Sand Dunes is a highlight for most kids. Bring binoculars to keep them engaged with the wildlife.
What should kids wear to Farewell Spit?
Dress children in warm layers and a windproof jacket.
- Sunglasses: Essential to protect eyes from blowing sand.
- Sun protection: Bring high SPF sunblock and a sun hat with a chin strap.
- Footwear: Solid walking shoes are best.
- Supplies: Pack extra snacks and water bottles for the 6.5-hour trip.
Are there shorter family activities nearby?
Yes, Cape Farewell and Fossil Point offer shorter walks.
Cape Farewell is a 30-minute walk from its car park. It features a limestone archway. Fossil Point takes about 45 minutes and has fossilized shells. Kids can also look for New Zealand fur seals playing in the rock pools.
Questions travellers ask
Can I bring my dog to Farewell Spit?
No. Dogs and other pets are strictly forbidden in the Nature Reserve and Pūponga Farm Park.
When is the best time to see birds?
September to April is the best window. Up to 20,000 godwits and 30,000 knots spend the summer here.
Can I drive my own car on the spit?
No. Public vehicles are not allowed on the beach past the Triangle Flat car park.
