Welcome to Auckland, a city that is not only beautiful but also offers a wide range of fun activities for kids of all ages.
Auckland is a perfect place to spend quality time with your family and create unforgettable memories. From exploring volcanic islands to visiting the zoo, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Are you looking for some inspiration for your next family outing? Look no further! In this article, we will explore some of the top fun things to do with kids in Auckland.
From exploring the city’s natural wonders to visiting some of the best family-friendly attractions, we have got you covered.
So, grab your family and get ready for some fun-filled adventures in Auckland!
Outdoor Activities
Exploring the outdoors is a great way to keep kids entertained while in Auckland. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy with your children:
Beaches
Auckland is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand. Here are some of the best beaches to visit with your kids:
| Beach Name | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Piha Beach | West Auckland | Surfing, swimming, hiking |
| Takapuna Beach | North Shore | Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding |
| Mission Bay Beach | Central Auckland | Swimming, sunbathing, picnicking |
Parks and Playgrounds
Auckland has a variety of parks and playgrounds that are perfect for kids of all ages. Here are some of the best parks and playgrounds to visit:
- Auckland Domain – features walking paths, gardens, and a playground
- Western Springs Park – home to a zoo and a large playground
- One Tree Hill Domain – offers hiking trails and a playground
Zoos and Animal Parks
Auckland is home to several zoos and animal parks that provide a fun and educational experience for kids. Here are some of the best zoos and animal parks to visit:
- Auckland Zoo – features over 135 different species of animals
- Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium – offers an up-close look at sea creatures
- Kiwi Valley Farm Park – allows kids to interact with farm animals and ride ponies
Indoor Activities
On rainy days or when the weather is too cold, indoor activities are a great way to keep the kids entertained in Auckland. Here are some of the best indoor activities for kids in Auckland:
Museums and Galleries
Auckland has numerous museums and galleries that are perfect for a family day out. Here are some of the best:
- Auckland Museum – Learn about the history and culture of New Zealand through interactive exhibits and displays.
- Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki – Explore one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of New Zealand and international art in the country.
- New Zealand Maritime Museum – Discover the fascinating maritime history of New Zealand through interactive exhibits, displays and activities.
Indoor Play Centres
Indoor play centres are a great way for kids to burn off energy and have fun. Here are some of the best indoor play centres in Auckland:
| Name | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Junglezone | North Shore | Features a large indoor playground, trampolines, laser tag and arcade games. |
| Inflatable World | Central Auckland | A large indoor inflatable playground with themed bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses and games. |
| Uptown Bounce | Central Auckland | Features a large indoor trampoline park with dodgeball, slam dunk, and foam pits. |
Aquariums
Auckland has some of the best aquariums in New Zealand. Here are some of the best:
- SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium – Explore the underwater world of New Zealand and beyond with over 30 exhibits and 80 different species of marine life.
- Auckland Zoo – Home to over 140 different species of animals, including penguins, lions, tigers, and elephants.
Educational Activities
Planetariums and Observatories
If you want to spark your child’s interest in astronomy, head to one of Auckland’s planetariums or observatories. These educational attractions offer a range of interactive exhibits, shows and stargazing experiences that will fascinate children of all ages.
Stardome Observatory and Planetarium is a great place to start. Located in Auckland’s One Tree Hill Domain, it features a planetarium, interactive exhibits and a telescope viewing platform. The planetarium shows are a highlight, with state-of-the-art technology transporting visitors to the depths of space.
The Auckland Observatory and Planetarium is another popular spot. Located in the Stardome building in Auckland’s CBD, it offers a range of educational shows and astronomy talks, as well as telescope viewing sessions on clear nights.
Botanic Gardens and Nature Reserves
Auckland is home to a range of beautiful botanic gardens and nature reserves, where children can learn about the natural world and get up close to a variety of plants and animals.
The Auckland Botanic Gardens is a must-visit. Spread over 64 hectares, it features a range of themed gardens, including a children’s garden with interactive exhibits and a butterfly house. There are also regular events and workshops for kids, including nature walks and gardening classes.
The Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary is another great option. Located on an island in the Hauraki Gulf, it’s home to a range of native birds and wildlife. Kids will love the guided walks and bird-watching tours, and there’s even a chance to help with conservation work.
Science Centres
For hands-on learning and interactive exhibits, head to one of Auckland’s science centres. These educational attractions offer a range of exhibits and activities that will inspire your child’s curiosity and creativity.
The Auckland Museum’s Science and Technology Gallery is a great place to start. Featuring interactive exhibits on everything from physics to robotics, it’s a fun and engaging way to learn about science.
The MOTAT Science Centre is another popular spot. Located in the Museum of Transport and Technology, it features a range of hands-on exhibits and workshops that will inspire your child’s love of science and technology.
Cultural Activities
Maori Cultural Experiences
Immerse your family in the rich culture of the Maori people with a visit to one of Auckland’s many Maori cultural experiences.
Learn about the history, traditions, and customs of the Maori people through interactive performances, traditional food, and hands-on activities.
Some of the best Maori cultural experiences in Auckland include:
- Tamaki Maori Village
- Auckland Museum
- Marae Visit
Performing Arts
Auckland is home to a vibrant performing arts scene, with many family-friendly shows and performances throughout the year.
Take your kids to see a musical, play, or dance performance and inspire their creativity and imagination.
Some of the best performing arts venues in Auckland include:
- The Civic
- Auckland Town Hall
- ASB Waterfront Theatre
Art and Craft Workshops
Get hands-on and creative with your kids with a visit to one of Auckland’s many art and craft workshops.
From painting and pottery to sewing and knitting, there are plenty of opportunities to learn new skills and make something special together.
Some of the best art and craft workshops in Auckland include:
- Studio One Toi Tū
- Art in Bloom
- Uptown Art
Food and Drink
Family-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants
Auckland has a great selection of kid-friendly cafes and restaurants that make it easy for families to dine out together.
Here are some of the best:
| Name | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Fridge | Kingsland | Indoor playground, kids’ menu, high chairs |
| Mondays Wholefoods | Kingsland | Organic, vegetarian and vegan options, kids’ menu, high chairs |
| The Grounds | Henderson | Outdoor playground, kids’ menu, high chairs |
Food Markets and Festivals
Auckland is home to a variety of food markets and festivals that are perfect for families. Here are a few to check out:
- La Cigale French Market – offers a range of French food and pastries, as well as live music and entertainment for kids.
- Street Eats – a food festival that takes place in various locations around Auckland, featuring a range of food trucks and vendors.
- Silo Park Markets – a weekly market that offers a range of food, drinks, and crafts, as well as live music and entertainment for kids.
Cooking Classes for Kids
Auckland has a number of cooking classes for kids, which are a great way to get them interested in cooking and trying new foods. Here are a few options:
- The Kitchen Collective – offers cooking classes for kids aged 7-14, with a focus on healthy, seasonal ingredients.
- LittleCooks – offers classes for kids aged 3-12, with a focus on simple, healthy recipes that kids can make at home.
- FoodStorm – offers a range of cooking classes for kids and teens, including baking, pasta-making, and international cuisine.
Jessie Wise
Thursday 20th of June 2024
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