Parents: These Activities Will Help You Survive The School Holidays

The school holidays are just around the corner, running from Saturday, April 12 to Sunday, April 27, and if you’re a parent in Auckland, you’re probably already wondering how to keep the kids entertained. With autumn in full swing—think mild days averaging 14°C to 20°C, occasional rain, and golden leaves everywhere—Auckland transforms into a playground of possibilities.

Whether your little ones crave outdoor adventures, creative outlets, or just a chance to burn off energy, we’ve rounded up some top-notch activities to help you survive (and maybe even enjoy) the break. No more “I’m bored” meltdowns—these ideas have you covered!

Nothing says April like a trip to the farm, and ZaberriWorld in Pukekohe, just a 45-minute drive from Auckland’s CBD, is rolling out its Autumn Harvest Festival. Kids can dive into pumpkin picking, bounce around on hayrides, and get their hands dirty in the fresh air.

The farm’s wide-open spaces are perfect for letting them run wild while you soak in the rustic vibes. Pack a picnic to enjoy under the autumn sun, and don’t forget to book early—family weekends here fill up fast. It’s a wholesome day out that’ll tire them out (and give you a breather)!

With shorter days and clearer night skies, April’s a stellar time to spark some cosmic curiosity. The Auckland Stardome in Cornwall Park is hosting school holiday sessions, complete with planetarium shows tailored for kids.

Think interactive stories about constellations and hands-on telescope fun—perfect for ages 5 and up. Entry’s free for kids under 16 with a paying adult (around $15), and they’ll leave buzzing about the universe. Pair it with a twilight picnic in the park to round out the evening—fingers crossed the rain holds off!

For families craving nature, the Hunua Ranges offer an easy escape less than an hour from the city. The Cossey-Massey Loop is a kid-friendly trail with gentle paths, waterfall views, and plenty of spots to pause for snacks.

Autumn turns the forest into a golden wonderland, and the cooler temps make it ideal for little legs to explore without overheating. Pack some binoculars—tūī and kererū sightings are a bonus! It’s free, it’s active, and it’s a sanity-saver for parents needing to tire out high-energy crews.

Rainy days? No problem. The Auckland Art Gallery in the CBD is running free holiday workshops for kids during the break. Expect hands-on fun like painting, collage-making, and storytelling sessions inspired by the gallery’s exhibits. It’s aimed at ages 4–12, and entry’s free for kids (adults too, if you’re just browsing). The vibe’s relaxed yet engaging—perfect for sparking creativity while you sip a coffee nearby. Check their website closer to April for the full schedule; these tend to book up quick!

If indoor chaos is more your speed, Westfield Malls (think Albany, Newmarket, or St Lukes) are hosting LEGO® workshops throughout the holidays. Kids can build mini masterpieces, join group challenges, or just free-build to their heart’s content—all for free. It’s a drop-in setup, so no need to plan ahead, and the malls have plenty of food courts for a post-build refuel. Bonus: you might sneak in some shopping while they’re distracted. Perfect for ages 6–12, and a total win when the weather turns soggy.

Auckland’s April holidays overlap with public holidays like Good Friday (April 3), Easter Monday (April 6), and Easter Tuesday (April 7—a school-specific day off), so expect some crowds at popular spots. Book ahead where you can, and keep an eye on the forecast—autumn’s moody weather calls for a Plan B. For last-minute deals, apps like Bookme NZ often drop discounted activity vouchers, saving you cash and stress.

From farmyard fun to starry nights, these activities blend outdoor thrills with indoor chill, ensuring your kids stay busy and you stay sane. Subscribe to Citygoss—“Stay in the Know, Wherever You Go!”—for more insider tips on Auckland’s holiday gems. Which one’s your family tackling first? Let the countdown to April 12 begin!