Thames with Kids: A Family Day Out
Thames is quietly one of the best-value family days out on the Coromandel. There is no big theme park and no queues, just a flat cycle trail even little legs can manage, gold-mining history kids can actually touch, a river to swim in and a market for treats. Here is how to do Thames with kids without spending a fortune or hearing "I’m bored".
Ride the Hauraki Rail Trail
The flat, off-road Hauraki Rail Trail could have been designed for families. No hills, no traffic and plenty of places to stop for a snack. Start with an easy out-and-back from town and simply turn around when small riders have had enough; bike and trailer hire is available locally.
Dig into gold-mining history
Forget dusty glass cases. At the Goldmine Experience kids can feel the ground shake under a working stamper battery, walk into a real mine tunnel and, best of all, pan for actual gold. The hands-on displays at the Thames School of Mines and the Bella Street Pumphouse keep the theme going. It is history that sticks. See our Goldmine Experience guide.
Easy walks and river swimming
The short forest walks in the Kauaeranga Valley are just the right length for little explorers, with plenty to spot along the way. On a hot day, the river swimming holes are pure magic, and there are grassy spots for a picnic. Our walks and tracks guide flags the easy ones.
Market treats and ice cream
Time your visit for a Saturday and the Thames Market delivers street food, baking and buskers that keep kids happy. Pollen Street has ice cream and family-friendly cafes for the inevitable refuel; see where to eat and drink.
A rainy-day plan
Coromandel weather can turn, so keep a wet-weather card up your sleeve: the museums, the School of Mines and the shops along Pollen Street keep everyone busy and dry.
Explore further afield
Thames makes a great base for family day trips north up the Pohutukawa Coast, with calm swimming beaches at Te Puru and Waiomu and picnic spots the whole way. Our beaches guide has the details.
Where to stay with kids
Family-friendly holiday parks and motels make an overnight easy. Compare options in where to stay in Thames, and find more things to do.
Frequently asked questions
Is Thames good for a family day out?
Yes. Thames offers the flat Hauraki Rail Trail, hands-on gold-mining attractions, easy river walks and swimming, and a Saturday market, all family-friendly and low-cost.
What can kids do in Thames?
Kids can ride the rail trail, pan for gold at the Goldmine Experience, explore the School of Mines, swim in the Kauaeranga River and enjoy the Saturday market.
Is the Hauraki Rail Trail safe for children?
Yes. The trail is flat and largely off-road, making it one of the safest cycle trails for families, though young children should still be supervised near road crossings.
Where can kids swim near Thames?
In summer, families swim at the Kauaeranga River swimming holes and Hoffman’s Pool east of town, and at the calm Pohutukawa Coast beaches north of Thames.
What is there to do in Thames with kids when it rains?
On wet days, head to the Thames Museum, the School of Mines, the Goldmine Experience buildings and the shops and cafes along Pollen Street.