We’ve found all the fun stuff to do for kids
If you’re visiting Auckland with children or just trying to keep your kids entertained during the school holidays then try one of these fun activities for kids.
Auckland Zoo
What kid doesn’t love a day at the zoo? Auckland Zoo is world class, with a wide variety of animals from New Zealand and around the world. See kiwi, tuatara and kea. Plus lions, tigers, giraffes, hippos, zebras, rhinos, elephants and more. Easily one of Auckland’s best activities for young kids.
Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari
Every kid should see a whale at least once. Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf has a year round population of bryde’s whales, there’s also dolphins, sometimes migrating humpback whales, pygmy blue whales, orca and the occasional sperm whale. Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari is not cheap but it is totally worth the money. If you’ve never seen a whale before it is an unforgettable experience. Do not let your kids miss this activity while you are in Auckland.
Kelly Tarltons
Swim with the sharks at Kelly Tarltons Aquarium on Auckland’s waterfront. Kids will be mesmerised by the playful penguins. Kelly Tarltons aquarium is one of Auckland’s top activities, popular with tourists, school groups, local families and kids of all ages.
Rainbows End
All kids love Rainbows End. It’ is a Theme Park with over 20 rides and attractions. The kids kingdom offers plenty of rides for little kids while the main theme park offers thrills for teenagers and adults. You’ll have as much fun as the kids to at this activity.
Snowplanet
If your kids have never been on snow before then do not miss this activity while you are in Auckland. Snowplanet is an indoor ski slope in Silverdale 20 minutes drive from downtown. Try skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing. Ski clothing and all ski equipment is available to rent so don’t worry if you didn’t pack your gloves. A fun activity on a rainy day.
MOTAT
The Museum of Transport and Technology is a love it or hate it attraction. It’s a little bit to educational to be really fun for most people. But transport enthusiasts will love it. It’s next to the zoo so you can easily do both in a day.
Wero White Water Park
This one is fun for Kids and adults alike. Wero White Water Park is man made whitewater rafting and kayaking at it’s best. It’s fast become one of South Auckland’s most popular activities. You’re going to get wet if you come here so be prepared with warm clothing for afterwards.
Butterfly Creek
Butterfly Creek is great fun for under 5s. Conveniently located close to Auckland Airport. It’s grown to include a lot more than butterflies. Attractions now include crocodiles and kiwi, as well as a dinosaur exhibit. This activity is perfect for families with preschool age kids. If your kids are a bit to old for that try our activities for teenagers instead.
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum
The Navy Museum is located in Torpedo Bay. A short walk from the Devonport wharf. It’s a small museum with some interesting stuff. Entry is free which is great if you’re on a budget. There’s a cafe with incredible views of the city across the harbour.
The museum itself will take 1/2 an hour to 1 hour depending on your interest level. Super enthusiasts may be able to make a day of it, but there is a lot to see and do in area in walking distance. While your here make sure you bring a torch (flashlight) and check out the nearby tunnels in North Head. Given the price (free) this is an incredible family outing.
Take the ferry across from Auckland, stop for lunch in Devonport. Climb Mt Victoria and North Head. Have some fish and chips in the park or a swim at Cheltenham beach. There is a full day of cheap but fun activities to be had here.
Silverdale Adventure Park
Silverdale Adventure Park offers activities suitable for families with kids up to about 12 years old. Teenagers may have fun too but there are probably other activities better suited like nearby Snowplanet.
Lock’n Load Adventures
Are the kids driving you crazy? If so lock’n load adventures is the place for you. This activity is more fun for families with older kids or teenagers. They offer laser tag, paintball, and arrow tag. Located next to Auckland Airport.
Sheep World
Sheep World is located in Warkworth just north of Auckland. It’s a rural farm experience for kids who’ve never been on a farm. You can see sheep being sheared, or watch sheep dogs round up sheep and herd them into a pen. It’s good fun for younger kids and people who have an interest in animals.
Treasure Island Adventure Mini Golf
This is a large well maintained mini golf course near the Auckland Airport. They have two separate courses, both with a kid friendly pirate theme. It’s fun if you like mini golf. This is great for older kids or if you’re in a hotel near Auckland Airport.
Lilliput Mini Golf
Fun, dinosaur themed mini golf on Auckland’s waterfront. The kids will love it. If not you can cheer them up with an ice cream at Mission Bay.
Sky Tower
This is a firm favorite with my kids even after visiting many times. Kids love stomping on the glass floor. The view’s amazing. It’s really not to be missed especially if your staying at the SkyCity Grand 5 star hotel.
Auckland Museum
Auckland Museum is a world class, with constantly changing exhibits housed in the stunning Auckland Domain. There is plenty of fun activities for younger kids and lots of great stuff for adults too. If you love Museums this is a good one. If your not that fussed with history this museum is good enough you’ll probably enjoy it anyway. This is a perfect activity for a rainy day.
New Zealand Maritime Museum
This Museum is in a great location in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. It’s great fun if you like boats. Young kids seem to enjoy it too. If you go make sure you go out on the water as well. It’s an optional extra but it’s the best part and well worth it if you haven’t been sailing in Auckland already.
Kates 5 favourite Kids Activities in Auckland
I’m Kate, I’m 10 years old, my pronouns are she/her, and my favorite activities in Auckland are;
- Rainbows End
- Whale Watching
- Kelly Tarltons
- Auckland Zoo
- Snowplanet
Find a family friendly hotel for your stay in Auckland.