School holidays can be a bit stressful, especially when everybody is cooped up inside to avoid the cold. Luckily, there are heaps of fun, local activities that will get everyone out of the house (and each other's hair).

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

If you're looking for something to do with your little humans during the July school holidays, then this might be an idea. Brick Bay Sculpture Trail is offering free entry for up to three children with every paying adult, weekdays throughout the July school holidays. Get out and explore this beautiful walk combining nature and art. They are open from 10.00 a.m.–4.00 p.m. weekdays and to 5.00 p.m. on weekends.

Matakana Cinemas

Matakana Cinemas is a great go-to for a rainy day. They have plenty of great kids’ films to choose from over the holidays, including special advanced screenings of Space Jam; New Legacy. 

Dinner at The Matakana Village Pub

Did you know that every Monday and Tuesday from 4:00 p.m., kids eat free at the Village Pub. With any dining adult, one kid’s meal - from the Kids’ Menu – is free for children up to 12 years old. There's no need to spend the evening in the kitchen. To book, head to www.thematakana.co.nz or call 09 422 7518..

Warkworth Museum

Drop into the Warkworth Museum on 15th July or 20th July to enjoy some hands-on activities with museum volunteers. Kids will be able to polish and take home their own piece of kauri gum, have a go at the touch and guess mystery box challenge, learn about old school technology, and so much more.

Local Libraries

Warkworth and Mahurangi East Libraries have heaps of awesome events over the holidays to keep the little ones entertained. With bike days, astronomy nights, and plenty of educational workshops, local kids will be having fun and learning at the same time. 

Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights

The Mahurangi Winter Festival Of Lights will continue over the holidays, with the famous Gull Laser Light Show making its return this Saturday, July 17th. Join the community on Baxter Street to enjoy all the fun, rain or shine. Activities include laser light show (sponsored by Gull Matakana & Snells), ice skating rink, foam cannon, snow pit, food stalls, music and more. 

Later on in the month there will be the Glow Show, a ‘Kiwified’ interpretation of the classic ‘Alice in Wonderland' tale for tamariki, educators and whanau. Let your imagination soar as you're transported by the magic of giant scale glow-in-the-dark puppetry. The mega edu-taining Wonderland Glow Show promotes literacy and Te Reo Mãori, celebrates the exquisite art of ultraviolet puppetry, and demonstrates ‘Being your most creative self’.