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 10 top picks to keep the kids busy and happy these holidays...
This festive season, Santa has set up shop at Snowplanet, but this year, he’s bringing the magical photos and memories indoors to the warmth of the 7 Summits Restaurant in his enchanting Gingerbread Village. Plus step into Santa’s Winter Wonderland Village, a snowy escape filled with glowing lights and snowcapped trees at every turn with games and tubing fun for everyone!
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 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.
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 19 December)?
