We're pretty blessed in New Zealand: no other country in the world has access to the South Pacific like us; we have a tropical playground that's the envy of the world.

We have regular flights to Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Rarotonga, Niue, French Polynesia, Vanuatu, Norfolk Island and New Caledonia. No other country has access like that.

With choice often comes confusion; a family holiday is a significant investment. So, we've narrowed down four of the best places to consider.

Fiji

RADISSON BLU

Radisson Blu is a popular choice in Port Denarau.

Fiji is the first option for many considering a family escape - and for a good reason. Port Denarau, just 20 minutes from the airport, is a sprawling artificial island packed with family-friendly resorts. One of the best options is Radisson Blu, which has a pool of Disneyland proportions weaving through its public areas - and the kids will love it.

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The vital thing to know about Denarau is the island isn't full of white sandy beaches; you need to head out on a day trip to the nearby Mamanuca Islands to experience that.

However, it's easy - with more than a dozen day trips to pick from. You can relax at a private island such as Malamala Beach Club, or explore the uninhabited Modriki Island - the place where blockbuster Castaway was filmed.

CASTAWAY ISLAND

Castaway Island has a large pool and beach that the kids will love.

If you prefer to stay on a family-friendly tropical island, there are more than 20 to pick from within 45 minutes of the airport. Castaway Island is a popular choice, with family-sized bures right on the beach and a free Castaway Kids Club that runs from 9am until 10pm, with a small evening break.

Cook Islands

SUPPLIED

Rarotonga may be small, but it's perfect for a family break.

One of the advantages of Rarotonga is its size; you can drive around the entire island in less than an hour.

While it doesn't have the scale of family-friendly resorts that you'll find in Fiji, it does have a good selection including Club Raro, Little Polynesian Resort, and the Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium. Prices vary from less than $200 a night, right up to around $700.

You'll find fantastic snorkelling right out in front of most resorts, with Rarotonga's lagoon providing shelter from ocean swells. Depending on the time of year, the breeze can get up, causing lagoon waves - which isn't desirable for small kids.

But all resorts have fabulous pools to enjoy, whatever the weather.

Samoa

BROOK SABIN

Saletoga Sands is one of Samoa's top family-friendly resorts.

Samoa is a little more off-the-beaten-path for families, partly because it requires more effort.

The best resorts, with white sandy beaches, are on the Southern Coast, such as Saletoga Sands and Sinalei Reef Resort. On the downside, you do require a drive of at least 50 minutes from the airport.

The resorts offer a more authentic experience; local laws prohibit big offshore multinationals buying up and running accommodation. So, don't expect giant pools with slides, it's a more low-key affair with an emphasis on relaxing.

Samoa has been the scene of a recent measles crisis, although the state of emergency ended late December. Our Government recommends all travellers to Samoa to be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before travel. Infants and children also need to take precautions - the latest advice can be found on safetravel.govt.nz

French Polynesia

BROOK SABIN

Bora Bora isn't just for couples - it's an excellent place to take the kids.

If you're willing to splash a considerable amount of cash into a South Pacific family escape, the jewel in the crown is undoubtedly French Polynesia's Bora Bora.

Yes, its emerald waters are an overwater adults-only paradise, but many resorts also treat families with the same reverence as newlyweds, like Conrad Bora Bora Niu. Activities at the kids club include treasure hunts, Tahitian dancing and creating flower crowns.

An increasingly popular alternative to Bora Bora is nearby Moorea. Instead of having to take a plane, it's reachable with a 30 minute ferry trip - and offers overwater villas and kids clubs, without the Bora Bora price tag.

Carbon footprint: Flying generates carbon emissions. If you're booking with Air New Zealand, tick the box to offset your emissions during the booking process. If you've already flown, or are booked onto another airline, you can still work out your emissions by starting to go through the Air NZ booking process and clicking the "offset your emissions" box. Read more at airnewzealand.co.nz/sustainability-customer-carbon-offset.

The author was supported by the Tourism Boards of the respective places listed, although this list was compiled on merit.This article was produced as part of a partnershipwithHouse of Travel.Read more about our partnership content here.

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Family escapes: Which tropical island is best? - Stuff.co.nz