Winter doesn’t mean the fun has to stop—in fact, Auckland has plenty of cool (and cosy) ways to keep the whole whānau entertained these school holidays. Whether you’re staying with us at Edit Hotels or just looking for fresh ideas, we’ve rounded up our favourite family-friendly activities to keep the kids busy and the adults sane.
Here’s your Edit-approved hit list of things to do these school holidays in Auckland:
Explore the Wintergardens at Auckland Domain
Perfect for a crisp winter’s day, the Wintergardens feel like a hidden wonderland in the heart of the city. The Victorian-style glasshouses are filled with tropical and seasonal flowers, warm air, and plenty of photo ops. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and surprisingly fun for kids to explore.
📍 Auckland Domain – 10 mins from Edit Auckland
💸 Free
Get Hands-On at MOTAT
The Museum of Transport and Technology is always a winner during the holidays. With interactive exhibits, vintage planes and trains, and special winter programming, it’s a fun way to sneak a little learning into your holiday.
Pro tip: grab a hot chocolate at the café before hopping aboard the vintage tram!
📍 Western Springs
💸 Kids under 5 free, family passes available
Ice Skating at Paradice Avondale or Botany
What’s winter without a bit of ice? Paradice Ice Skating is a hit with kids of all ages. Whether they’re wobbly beginners or mini pros, it’s all about the laughs (and the occasional fall). For something extra, check if their themed disco nights are on during your stay!
📍 Avondale or Botany Downs
💸 Entry + skate hire from $20
Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium
Dive into an underwater world without getting wet. From penguins and sharks to giant turtles and glowing jellyfish, Kelly Tarlton’s is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Bonus: it’s indoors and warm—great for rainy days.
📍 Orakei – 15 mins from Edit Auckland
💸 Discounts often available online
Wētā Workshop Unleashed
A must for older kids and movie buffs! Wētā Workshop Unleashed is part film set, part behind-the-scenes magic, with monsters, miniatures and special effects galore. It’s creative, slightly spooky (in a fun way), and completely unique to Auckland.
📍 Federal Street – walking distance from Edit Auckland
💸 Book ahead—tours fill fast
Rainy Day Bonus: Indoor Playgrounds & Trampoline Parks
Need to burn off energy indoors? Auckland’s got you. Try Jump Trampoline Park in Avondale or Chipmunks indoor playgrounds for younger kids. Ideal when the weather says “no thanks” but the kids say “go go go!”