Kiwi kids are blessed with an amazing country to grow up in and lots of great things to do and especially here on the Coast summer holidays are the best with our great beaches, parks, playgrounds and lots of fun activities.
Tell us in one sentence why -
"Summer on the Coast is best because ..."
and go in the draw to win a $25 voucher to any Coastie place of your choice.
The competition is open until 5 pm on 20 January when we will randomly select a winner.
Also check out "School's Out! Discover 12 North Auckland Favourites for Family Fun" plus enter the kids now in our "Summer School Holiday prize draw".
Competition Rules:
Note entries are open to all kids up to 16 years and you must be a resident of the Hibiscus Coast, North Shore or Rodney district regions.
School holidays are on the way and there’s no need to travel far for fun! With over 60 family-friendly options across North Auckland, there’s something for every age and budget. Here are 12 top picks to keep the kids busy and happy these holidays...
With plenty of lego fun sessions available all holidays there are Christmas themed holiday fun sessions up to 23 December and then summer fun throughout January. Check out Bricks 4 Kidz holiday programme, now in both Orewa and Albany (and across Auckland), and book the kids in! Whilst the kids only see fun sessions they are in fact subject to a STEAM education programme empowering them with essential, future-ready skills.
Get out of that summer heat these holidays and into the cool when you challenge your family or friends to a game of glow-in-the-dark minigolf fun. Gloputt Minigolf brings a twist to mini golf with glowing courses, neon plants, and radiant golf balls. It’s quirky, colourful, and perfect for all ages - rain or shine! Who's the champion in your family!?!
Never failing to disappoint those budding performers, let their imaginations soar again this January at Artz on Show’s Mufasa Workshop (19 to 23 January). The kids will enjoy the story of the origins of Mufasa with great characters including the hilarious characters of Timon and Pumbaa and budding performers will enjoy being part of the story as well as being able to participate in all facets of the arts.
Snowplanet's holiday programs help kids build skills and confidence on the snow. With expert instructors and indoor slopes, it’s a great way to prep for real mountains. All-inclusive packages allow the kids to make new friends, stay active and entertained. Programs are tailored to different ages and skill levels to ensure a great holiday time for all and with programs available in both December and January there are plenty of opportunities for the kids to get out of the heat and onto the cool snowy slopes!
With so many fantastic beaches to enjoy both around the Hibiscus Coast and North Shore you could take up our beach hopping challenge (see No 10 below) but it is imperative to stay safe. So far this holiday season (as of December 21, 2025) and there have been many more since, volunteer surf lifeguards in New Zealand had performed 240 sea rescues for the 2025-26 summer season. This number is more than twice the amount recorded during the same period the previous year.
To help you understand how to stay safe we have compiled a list of Water Safety, Services and Activities including swimsafe links and our blog post on "Recognising and Managing Dangerous Ocean Currents: Rip Currents, Undertows, and Rip Tides".
Take a read then head out to the beach and have great, but safe, summer fun!!
Also at Snowplanet - get ready for tubing, tobogganing, snowball fights, and snowman building in their Winter Wonderland! Then warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or treat the family to a delicious cheese fondue at the alpine-themed 7 Summits restaurant.
Mix retail therapy with a beach walk in Orewa. Great cafes, boutique shops, ice creams, and a wide, golden beach - it’s a relaxed local holiday must-do. Or explore heritage-rich towns such as Devonport, Northcote Point, or Albany Old Village - complete with markets, historic homes, and quirky charm.
If you're looking for great cool water fun for the kids why not head along to Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre's splash pad. With the beach also on the doorstep, free swimming in the pool for tamariki 16 years and under and an on-site cafe it's the perfect place to keep the kids happy for a day out on the Coast - and yes, it's free!! Plus check out lots more great splash pads across Auckland for the kids to enjoy.
Visit Silverdale Pioneer Village (weekends 10am–3pm). The Village is an ideal place for a family visit where you can wander through the buildings or enjoy the gardens or relax in the shade of the magnificent old oak trees. Check out details online.
North Auckland has 25+ beautiful beaches, from Devonport to Tāwharanui. Hit a new one each day - Orewa, Long Bay, Stanmore Bay, Cheltenham, Big Manly… Why not set a holiday challenge to visit a new beach each day? Share your favourites in the comments!
Check out Hibiscus Coast beaches and North Shore beaches.
Explore scenic walks and cycleways on the Hibiscus Coast or further afield through the AT and AC links. Try coastal paths, bush trails or family-friendly rides. Perfect for burning off energy and spotting local wildlife. Again, let us know your favourite for family fun!
Remember if you're looking for indoor activities for the kids that are free the kids will love family fun at your local library! From craft sessions and storytimes to school holiday programs, Hibiscus Coast and North Shore libraries have plenty to offer.
Looking for even more ways to keep the kids happy (and your sanity intact)?
Check out our full Linku2 School Holidays – North Auckland listings and our online local events calendar, packed with local attractions, events, and school holiday programs.
No need for bored kids these holidays! Let the adventures begin!
What's your favourite local thing to do with the kids or holiday programme? Let us know in the comments below and be in to WIN a $25 voucher to your choice to enjoy these holidays (closes Friday 30 January)?
Enter our great holiday prize draw today and see below for more great chances to win this summer with the SPCA Animal Book Review Competition!!
Enter now to be in to WIN great prizes this Sept/Oct school holidays!
Enter now as we have 5 prizes up for grabs as follows -
Please note vouchers need to be purchased from a place that will issue online vouchers as NZ Post no longer allow active vouchers to be posted. Note Linku2 holiday giveaways are open to entries across New Zealand
Draw closes 01 February 2026 at 11 pm and is drawn 02 February - winners will be notified directly by email.
Plus enter today in the SPCA summer book review competition. See details and entry below -
Have you got a favourite animal book? Tell us about it and go in the draw to win some awesome books and more!
Choose a book about animals (it could be a picture book, short story or even non-fiction/fact book), download the entry form below and tell us what you think! Complete the book review form and don't forget to add lots of detail!
Download the entry form below, complete it, scan it or take a photo and enter on the form below the review information online.
For more information, summer holiday activities and our kids’ newsletter visit www.spca.nz/kids
When the rain’s pouring down and outdoor adventures are off the table, keeping the kids entertained indoors can feel like a challenge. But with a little planning (and a dash of imagination), you can turn a dreary day into a memory-making one!
Here are some fun, screen-free ideas to keep everyone happy when you’re stuck inside:
Pull out the couch cushions, blankets, and pegs—and let the fort-building begin! Add fairy lights and books for extra magic. Bonus: it makes a great spot for an indoor picnic or movie session.
Nothing says cosy like the smell of cookies or muffins in the oven. Let the kids help with measuring, mixing, and decorating. If you’re not keen on baking from scratch, a ready-made mix does the trick just fine.
Create a simple treasure map or write clues to lead kids around the house. Hide small toys, snacks, or puzzle pieces that lead to a final “treasure.” It’s exciting, keeps them moving, and works for all ages.
Bring out the paints, paper, scissors, and glue. From paper plate animals to cardboard castles, there are endless craft ideas online—or let the kids freestyle and see what they create! Don’t forget to display their masterpieces.
Make a volcano with baking soda and vinegar, grow crystals, or try a floating egg experiment. These mini science activities are hands-on fun and sneak a little learning into the day too.
Turn up the music and get everyone moving! Add dress-ups and glow sticks for extra fun. Let the kids be the DJs or choreograph their own dance routines.
Close the curtains, make popcorn, and set up a “cinema” with tickets and a snack bar. Let the kids pick the movie and enjoy a chilled-out afternoon in full movie mode.
Curl up with a pile of picture books or dive into a new chapter book as a family. Rainy days are perfect for slowing down and getting lost in a story.
Old-school games like hide-and-seek, charades, “the floor is lava,” or even a mini obstacle course can burn off energy and laughs. Board games and card games are also great for older kids.
Grab a box or jar and fill it with drawings, letters, small toys, or anything that captures what your family is into right now. Hide it away to open in a year—or five!
Make Rainy Days Magical
While the weather may keep you indoors, it doesn’t have to dampen the fun. These simple activities help kids stay busy, get creative, and make the most of time together—whatever the forecast.
Big Fun in Small Spaces
Not every family has a sprawling backyard - but that doesn’t mean your kids have to miss out on outdoor fun. With a little creativity and the right play equipment, even the smallest garden can become an exciting, safe, and engaging space for your little ones.
Here are some of the best play items to consider when working with a compact outdoor area:
Look for play items that can be easily folded away or stacked when not in use. Foldable slides, collapsible tunnels, or pop-up tents are perfect for smaller spaces and can be packed down to give you room when needed. They're also great for switching up the play setup regularly.
These are compact, versatile, and ideal for sensory play. Many come with lids, keeping things tidy and weatherproof. Bonus: kids can spend hours pouring, scooping, and splashing—without needing much room at all.
Instead of a full jungle gym, go for a smaller-scale version suitable for toddlers and young children. A wooden triangle climber (like a Pikler triangle) or low climbing dome offers lots of motor skill development in a small footprint.
Encourage creativity with a weather-resistant easel or a section of garden fence painted with blackboard paint. These take up minimal space and give kids a fun way to draw, paint, and play games like tic-tac-toe outside.
Use vertical space! Hanging sensory boards, small swings from pergolas, or wall-mounted ball runs can keep kids entertained without cluttering the ground. You could even install a low trellis wall with climbing grips for adventurous little ones.
Let your kids dig, plant, and water with their own raised planter box or potting bench. This is a great way to introduce them to gardening, nature, and responsibility—without needing much space.
Create a simple obstacle course using low balance beams or rubber stepping stones. These can be moved or stored easily and provide great physical play in a limited area.
A mini trampoline (with safety enclosure if needed) can fit nicely into a corner and provides excellent energy-burning fun. Look for models designed for small children that are safe and stable.
These pint-sized play kitchens are a hit with preschoolers and only require a small patch of space. Kids can mix up mud pies, water potions, and leaf soup—messy fun that’s worth every minute!
To keep the space clutter-free, invest in a weatherproof outdoor bench with built-in storage. It doubles as seating for you or the kids while keeping toys tucked away when not in use.
Make Every Square Metre Count
When space is limited, it’s all about choosing items that are multi-functional, storable, and scaled for little bodies. With a few thoughtful additions, your small garden can be transformed into a magical outdoor retreat where your kids can play, learn, and explore—right outside the back door.
For some children, school can feel overwhelming, particularly for those with special needs. They may struggle with understanding expectations, face social exclusion, or find schoolwork stressful. As a parent, your instinct might be to swoop in and fix everything, but sometimes the best support comes from simply listening, offering reassurance, and providing comfort.
Here are some practical tips to help your child manage back-to-school stress and anxiety:
1. Acknowledge Their Feelings
Saying “Don’t worry!” may not provide much comfort when your child is feeling anxious. The most helpful thing you can do is to validate their feelings. Acknowledge that their worries are real and let them know you understand. This creates a safe space for them to open up and share their concerns with you.
2. Ask, “What are the three things you’re most worried about?”
Instead of asking broad questions, encourage your child to pinpoint their worries. Asking them to name three specific things they’re anxious about helps break down their fears into manageable parts. If they can’t think of anything, have them list the most recent things that have caused them stress.
3. Ask, “What are the three things you’re most excited about?”
Help your child focus on the positive aspects of school, even if they seem small. Whether it’s a fun activity, seeing friends, or the thought of coming home at the end of the day, reminding them of what they look forward to can help balance their fears.
4. Practice Role-Playing
Once you understand what triggers your child’s anxiety, use role-playing to help them practice responses to those situations. For example, role-play how they could handle a difficult teacher or a peer who is bullying them. Modeling coping strategies will give your child practical tools for managing stress in real-life situations.
5. Keep Communication Open
Make it clear to your child that they can always talk to you about their worries. Sometimes, you don’t need to have a solution—just listening and talking through their concerns can help them feel less overwhelmed. Stay connected, and if the situation worsens, you’ll be ready to step in and help.
6. Understand the Healing Power of Tears
Crying is a natural way to relieve stress. While it’s tough to see your child upset, allow them to express their emotions. After they’ve calmed down, they may be more open to talking about what’s bothering them. Provide comfort and understanding while letting the tears run their course.
7. Resist the Urge to Fix Everything
Sometimes, parents need to intervene, especially when a child is in a difficult class or an IEP isn’t being followed. However, teach your child that not everything can be fixed right away. Some challenges are a part of life and must be faced head-on. Focus on addressing the issues that are truly urgent or harmful.
8. Know When to Seek Professional Help
It’s common for kids to experience some anxiety about school, but when that anxiety becomes disruptive, professional help may be needed. Watch for signs such as drastic changes in behavior, social withdrawal, shifts in eating or sleeping habits, or reluctance to talk. If you notice these signs, consider seeking help from a counselor or therapist.
Additional Tips:
What You Need:
By approaching your child’s back-to-school anxiety with patience, empathy, and open communication, you can help them navigate this challenging time with greater confidence and resilience.
Get kids moving and keep cool on a warm day with these easy, affordable water play activities! They're even simpler than heading to the pool (just don’t forget the sunscreen!).
Get kids moving and keep cool on a warm day with these easy, affordable water play activities! They're even simpler than heading to the pool (just don’t forget the sunscreen!).
Hose Fun
Grab the garden hose and let the kids help water the plants. Then kick off the fun! Try games like water limbo or high-jump by making a water "bar" for kids to go under or over. You can also set up target practice on the driveway, fence, or a tree using chalk to create a target—or have a classic water fight with hoses, water guns, buckets, or water balloons.
Car Wash
Bring out the buckets, sponges, and some soapy water for a kid-powered car wash. Let them scrub down the car, bikes, ride-on toys, and other outdoor gear. When everything’s clean, turn the sponge into a game of “sponge tag”!
Splash Pad Outing
Take the kids to a local splashpad, like the one at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre! Open during summer from late November/December to April/May, it’s a free, daily activity (weather permitting) and a great way to cool off.
Wet “Painting”
Give kids a bucket of water and some big paintbrushes or rollers, and let them "paint" on fences, porches, playsets, driveways, or sidewalks. It’s all the fun of painting without any mess!
Creek Adventure
Take a walk to a nearby creek for a refreshing nature day. Bring along toy boats or make your own using natural materials. Why not make up a story around your boats and their adventures!
Dribble, Dribble, Drench
Try this twist on Duck, Duck, Goose! Have everyone sit in a circle, and give the person who’s “It” a cup or watering can. They dribble a few drops on each person’s head, choosing one to douse completely. The soaked player then chases “It” around the circle, trying to tag them before they get back to the empty spot.
Outdoor Bath
Fill a kiddie pool with water, and add bath toys along with lightweight containers like pitchers, cups, sieves, funnels, and short PVC pipes. Let kids’ imaginations run wild with ways to splash, pour, and play.
Ice Block Building
With a little prep, freeze water in large containers like milk cartons, adding food coloring if you like. Let the kids build with the ice blocks, using a little salt to help pieces stick together. Take a picture of their creations before they melt!
Whether short on cash or you simply just don't want to have to fork out everytime you go out as a family, there are always lots of free or fun things to do including -
Get the bikes out and go for a family bike ride. A quick lap around the neighborhood or park can be fun, if you're looking for local walks and cycles check our Hibiscus Coast Walks and Cycleways page or looking further afield around Auckland check out the Auckland Council Wheely Good Time Family Fun article.
Make a list of free museums and attractions in your area. Then work your way through the list until you've visited them all. Art museums, history museums, monuments-there's sure to be something worth checking out at each one. Locally a couple of great options to visit are the Silverdale Pioneer Village, Warkworth Museum and Bohemian Settlers Museum in Puhoi.
A great source for free books, movies and magazines, and it can also be a good source for other types of free entertainment. Check with your library to see if there are any upcoming story hours, concerts or educational programs that may be of interest to your family. Then be sure to take advantage of them. We have two great libraries here on the Coast and you can find details and information on our Linku2 Libraries page. (Please note at July 2024 the Orewa library is currently closed for renovation, library services are being offered out of the Orewa CAB).
Head out after dark for a night of stargazing fun. You can use a telescope and an astronomy guide to help you locate the constellations and planets or just wing it as you stretch out on a big blanket and stare at the sky. Either way, the evening promises to be as enjoyable as it is educational.
Play a few shorter games or one long one. Eitherway add a bit of spice by having prizes for the winners!
Add in some personalised charades - make one up each and get the others to act out - there are plenty of charade ideas on the internet too if you get stuck for ideas.
Depending on the time of year fruit picking may not be available. Head out catch a fish, pick some fruit and then back at home make something with your fresh produce! Whilst there are no local options there are a number of opportunities you will find in West and South Auckland so head out and make a day of it (check the picking season though!).
Cooking is an important life skill, and it can be a lot of fun to teach. Pick out an interesting cookbook and each pick a dish to make up a full meal - help each other with the courses and then sit down for a sumptuous but potentially unusual or unexpected meal!
Camping is the ultimate family adventure. Grab a tent, some sleeping bags and torch and head down the garden for a fun, family bonding night. You can sing camp songs, tell ghost stories, nibble on snacks and play games all without leaving home. We have lots of local options including Shakespear Regional Park, other nearby regional parks and an excellent campsite on the water's edge in Orewa.
Don't just pick the movies together but prepare together. Pop the popcorn, make up lolly bags, rearrange the room with pillows and cushions and set the stage for a fun family time.
These are just a few suggestions - there are so many things you can do together but just make sure you find the time to do them all!
Let us know in the comments below you're favourite family activity and any new ones we can add to this post! Thanks!
The start of preschool is a significant milestone, often met with a blend of excitement, joy, and some inevitable tears and uncertainty from both children and parents! Preschool is designed to ease the transition from family life or a childcare center to school. These programs help develop children's communication, problem-solving, and thinking skills while familiarizing them with school routines and rhythms.
Talk About Preschool: Discuss with your child the exciting adventure that preschool will be. Speak with their future teacher and principal to gather detailed information about daily activities, bathroom routines, and meal times. This will help you address any questions your child might have, easing their concerns.
Plan a Celebratory Breakfast: Make the morning special with a celebratory breakfast and a small gift, like a new bag or a Starting Preschool Certificate. This can help your child feel important and excited about their new role.
Tip 1: Don’t Rush Through the Morning
A rushed morning is stressful for everyone, especially on the first day. Wake up early enough to enjoy a calm, unhurried breakfast, which helps avoid last-minute tantrums and ensures you arrive on time.
Tip 2: Arrive Early
Arriving early gives your child time to settle in before the crowd arrives. This also provides extra face time with the teacher, offering additional reassurance.
Tip 3: Bring a Comfort Object
If allowed, let your child bring a favorite stuffed animal or blanket. This can make the new environment feel less intimidating. As they become more comfortable, they can gradually leave the comfort object in their cubby.
Tip 4: Put on a Happy Face
Even if you’re anxious, try to stay positive. Your child will pick up on your mood, so if you seem confident and upbeat, they’re more likely to feel the same way.
Tip 5: Hang Around, But Don’t Hover
Many preschools encourage parents to stay for part of the first few days. If possible, stick around to give your child the courage to explore. Gradually step back as they become more secure, letting the teacher take over.
Tip 6: Keep Goodbyes Short and Sweet
When it’s time to leave, keep your good-byes brief and positive. Smile, give a hug, and let your child know when you’ll be back (“I’ll pick you up after lunch”). Avoid sneaking out, as this can make your child feel insecure.
Remember, it’s normal for kids to have a meltdown when separating. Even if your child is upset, they’ll likely calm down shortly after you leave. If the adjustment takes longer, don’t worry - preschool teachers are experienced in handling these situations. And don’t be surprised if your child is too happy and busy to let you know everything they've been doing when you pick them up!
