There’s something special about a Kiwi BBQ. Good food, cold drinks, and a group of mates or family all in one place. But if you’ve ever been to a BBQ where everyone just sits around after eating, you’ll know it can lose a bit of energy.
That’s where backyard games come in.
The right game doesn’t just fill time. It brings people together, sparks a bit of friendly competition, and creates those moments people actually remember. Whether it’s a casual afternoon or a full-blown summer party, adding a few games can completely change the vibe.
Here are 15 backyard games that will instantly upgrade your BBQ.
Classic Backyard Games That Always Deliver
These are the go-to games. Easy to set up, simple to play, and guaranteed to get people involved.
Cornhole
Cornhole has quickly become one of the most popular backyard games in NZ. It’s simple. Throw bean bags into the hole. But it’s surprisingly addictive. You can play one-on-one or in teams, and it works just as well with a drink in hand. Perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Giant Tumbling Tower
A BBQ favourite. Everyone knows how to play, and the tension builds with every block. It’s the kind of game that draws a crowd and gets people laughing.
Giant Connect Four
Super easy to jump into and great for quick matches. It’s competitive without being too intense, which makes it ideal for mixed groups.
Social Games That Get Everyone Involved
These are the games that break the ice and get people interacting straight away.
Kubb
Kubb is a bit more strategic but still easy to learn. Played in teams, it’s perfect for groups and keeps people engaged for longer games.
Backyard Dice
Think Yahtzee, but oversized and played outside. Great for groups and adds a bit of variety to the mix.
Bocce or Petanque
A relaxed, social game that’s perfect for winding things back a bit. Ideal for BBQs that run into the evening.
High Energy Games for Competitive BBQs
If your group is a bit more competitive, these will take things up a notch.
Spikeball
Fast-paced and competitive. Great for younger groups or anyone keen to get moving.
Backyard Cricket
A Kiwi classic. Easy to set up and always a hit, especially with larger groups.
Touch Rugby
If you’ve got the space, this is one of the best ways to bring energy to a BBQ. Quick games, lots of laughs, and everyone can get involved.
Easy Games for Any Space
Not every BBQ has a huge backyard. These games work just as well in smaller spaces.
Ring Toss
Simple, portable, and surprisingly competitive. Great for quick rounds.
Quoits
A classic lawn game that’s easy to learn and perfect for all ages.
Ladder Toss
Another easy-to-set-up game that’s ideal for smaller areas but still brings the competition.
Games That Bring the Fun Factor
These are the ones that create moments. The games people talk about after the BBQ.
Slip and Slide
Perfect for hot days. Not the most competitive, but definitely one of the most fun.
Water Balloon Toss
Simple but effective. Great for families or mixed-age groups.
Obstacle Course Challenge
Set up a quick DIY course using whatever you’ve got. It’s chaotic in the best way and gets everyone involved.
Why Backyard Games Make Every BBQ Better
Backyard games aren’t just about entertainment. They completely change the dynamic of a BBQ.
They give people something to do beyond eating and chatting. They help break the ice, especially when not everyone knows each other. And most importantly, they create shared moments. The kind that turn a good BBQ into a great one.
You’ll notice it straight away. Instead of people sitting around checking their phones, they’re up, moving, laughing, and competing.
How to Choose the Right Games for Your BBQ
Not every game fits every BBQ, so it’s worth thinking about your setup.
If you’ve got a mixed group, go for games that are easy to learn like cornhole or giant connect four. If your crowd is more competitive, bring in something like kubb or spikeball. And if space is tight, stick to compact options like ring toss or ladder toss.
A good mix of two to three games is usually all you need to keep things flowing without overcomplicating it.
Final Thoughts
The best BBQs aren’t just about the food. They’re about the experience.
Adding a few backyard games is one of the easiest ways to elevate your setup and make your event more memorable. Whether it’s a casual Sunday with family or a big summer gathering with mates, the right games will bring energy, connection, and a whole lot more fun.
So next time you fire up the BBQ, don’t just think about what’s on the menu. Think about what people are going to do once they’ve eaten.
Because that’s where the real magic happens.
