Christmas by the Sea: Fitzroy Beach Family Holidays

Celebrate Summer with Sand, Surf and Sunshine

When December rolls around in New Zealand, families flock to the coast for sunshine, swimming, and festive cheer. In Taranaki, Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park is the ultimate seaside destination for a Christmas and New Year escape. With cabins, camping sites, and direct access to one of New Plymouth’s most loved beaches, it’s the perfect place for families to relax, play, and create lasting holiday memories.

A Kiwi Christmas by the Sea

Christmas in New Zealand is all about summer traditions. Instead of snow and fireplaces, families gather for barbecues, beach cricket, and long days in the sun. At Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park, the festive season is alive with the sound of children playing, waves crashing, and parents enjoying a well-earned break.

Families decorate their cabins or campervans with fairy lights, and the communal areas often become hubs of celebration. A Christmas morning swim in the surf has become a tradition for many, followed by a relaxed lunch of fresh seafood, pavlova, and summer salads. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with travellers and locals alike sharing in the joy of the season.

Outdoor Adventures for Active Families

Fitzroy Beach is more than just a place to swim — it’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Families staying at the holiday park can enjoy:

• Surfing lessons: Fitzroy is one of New Plymouth’s top surf beaches, with waves suitable for beginners and experienced surfers.
• Kayaking & paddleboarding: Calm days are perfect for exploring the coastline by water.
• Cycling & walking tracks: The Coastal Walkway runs right past the holiday park, offering stunning views and safe paths for biking or strolling.
• Golf & sports: The New Plymouth Golf Club is nearby, and families can also enjoy tennis courts and sports fields within easy reach.
• Fishing & boating: Taranaki’s coast is known for its fishing opportunities, whether from the shore or on a charter boat.

For families who love variety, Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park is a gateway to endless activities. Christmas at the Bowl is a major annual event in the Taranaki community calendar. Set at the iconic Bowl of Brooklands

Camping, Cabins & Glamping

Accommodation at Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park caters to every style of holiday:

• Cabins: Comfortable and family-friendly, perfect for those who want a little more luxury.
• Camping sites: Spacious powered and non-powered sites for tents, caravans, and campervans.
• Glamping options: Stylish and functional setups for families who want the camping experience with added comfort.

Parents appreciate the safe environment, clean facilities, and easy access to the beach. Children love the freedom to run, play, and make new friends.

Food & Festive Flavours

New Plymouth’s food scene adds another layer to the holiday experience. Families can enjoy:

• Local cafés: Perfect for morning coffee and brunch after a sunrise swim.
• Fish & chips by the beach: A classic Kiwi tradition, best enjoyed barefoot in the sand.
• Festive treats: Pavlova, strawberries, and ice cream are staples of a New Zealand Christmas.
• Markets & local produce: Summer markets in New Plymouth offer fresh fruit, artisan goods, and festive crafts.

Cooking together at the holiday park is part of the fun, with barbecues and shared meals bringing families closer.

New Year Celebrations in Taranaki

New Year’s Eve at Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park is relaxed yet festive. Families gather for picnics, games, and music, while older children enjoy the freedom of exploring safely within the park. The nearby Coastal Walkway is a popular spot for evening strolls, with the sound of waves and the glow of city lights creating a magical atmosphere.

For those wanting a bigger celebration, New Plymouth hosts concerts, fireworks, and festivals — all within easy reach of the holiday park. Families can choose between a quiet night under the stars or joining the city’s lively events.

Local Attractions Beyond the Beach

While Fitzroy Beach is the star, New Plymouth offers plenty of family-friendly attractions:

• Pukekura Park: Famous for its Festival of Lights, running through December and January.
• Len Lye Centre: A striking art gallery showcasing kinetic art and local culture.
• Taranaki Maunga: Day trips to Egmont National Park offer hiking, scenery, and adventure.
• Brooklands Zoo: A small but charming zoo perfect for younger children.

These attractions make Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park an ideal base for exploring the wider Taranaki region.

Why Families Love Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park

• Beachfront location: Direct access to one of New Plymouth’s best beaches.
• Family-friendly facilities: Safe, welcoming, and designed for children.
• Variety of accommodation: Cabins, camping, and glamping options.
• Gateway to activities: Surfing, cycling, fishing, and more (& even golf!).
• Close to New Plymouth: Easy access to shops, cafés, and events.

It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a top choice for families this festive season.

Your Water Sports & Activities Haven!

Christmas and New Year at Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park is about more than just a holiday — it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. With sand, surf, and sunshine, families can enjoy the best of New Zealand’s summer traditions while exploring the vibrant Taranaki region.

Book your stay today and discover why Fitzroy Beach is the ultimate destination for a seaside family Christmas.

What’s on over Christmas and Summer:

https://www.taranaki.co.nz/visit/whats-on/

https://allevents.in/new-plymouth-tk/christmas

https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/tours-festivals/2025/christmas-events-2025/in/taranaki