Fun Things To Do in Auckland in Winter with Kids

There’s always something happening in our city, no matter what the weather is doing. Enjoy our ideas for things to do in Auckland in winter with kids, and start planning your next family adventure!

 

Art & About

Children deserve exposure to the best culture we can offer, and the Auckland Art Gallery always has something inventive on display. Art inspires conversation and fires the imagination. Powerful exhibitions such as ‘Seeing Moana Oceania’ and ‘Pacific Sisters: He Toa Tāera | Fashion Activists’ tell important stories of people, culture and connection. For a family day out with a difference, put the gallery on your to-do list, and experience the beauty and creative benefits of expert visual storytelling.

 

Escape Underwater

He was a charmer, an inventor, and a visionary. Few people know the story of Kelly Tarlton, except that we have an Aquarium named after him – because he built it! SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium holds a dear place in our hearts, so if you haven’t taken the kids there lately, it’s time to visit and discover what’s new. Escape to where it’s warm and dry, and spend the day mesmerised by seahorses and tropical fish. Penguins and sharks are easy to see, and always thrilling, and you can meet the rescued sea turtles in Turtle Bay. Discover the mysteries of the remote Southern Ocean, and wander through the shark tunnels – Kelly Tarlton’s original creation! For the littlies, the Shipwreck Shores indoor playground features a splash table for hours of fun.

 

Cold Winter, Hot Spring

When the temperature drops, lower yourself into the warm, inviting waters of one of New Zealand’s famous hot springs. There are plenty to choose from. After all, we live in a geothermal wonderland. Just 40 minutes from Auckland you’ll find Parakai Springs. There are indoor and outdoor pool options, along with thrilling water slides. Another hot option is the indoor Tepid Baths; known locally as ‘The Teps,’ take your pick from two pools, a spa and a sauna.

 

Don’t Sweat the Big Stuff

If you’re planning a family day out in Auckland, why not conquer a mountain? Choose the biggest hillside you can handle, and, thanks to the colder weather, sweat less as you ascend. A great place to start is Māngere Mountain, an ancient volcanic cone. At 106 metres above sea level, it’s a decent climb without being too hard for kids. Choose your level of adventure, and take time to appreciate the (literally breathtaking) views. Remember to dress well for the weather, because it will be much colder at the top!

 

Winter Festival

The ‘Elemental AKL Festival’ is Auckland’s highly-anticipated winter festival, happening for the very first time in 2019. Over 31 spectacular days and nights, the event will summon the four elements: fire, water, air and earth. Take in brightly-lit installations across the waterfront, and engaging cultural displays. There’ll be an abundance of art and performance – including illuminated puppet shows for children – and superb cuisine. The festival will be spread across many locations, including the Auckland Town Hall and Silo Park, so check online to see what’s happening, and where.