Looking for activities the whole whānau can enjoy during the school holidays? Here’s a few play themed ideas across Tāmaki Makaurau to get you inspired. 

Check out the list below for a fun filled holiday for tamariki and adults alike, brought to you by Auckland Council. 

1. Make the most of the Auckland Heritage Festival 

Auckland’s much-loved Heritage Festival returns from 20 September to 5 October 2025, bringing two weeks of free and low-cost events that celebrate the stories, people, and places that define the rich history of Tāmaki Makaurau. This year’s theme, ‘Auckland at Play’ explores the spirit of sport and recreation, including honouring the 75th anniversary of the 1950 Empire Games – a defining moment in New Zealand’s sporting history – when nearly 250,000 Kiwis flocked to see world-class athletes compete right here in Auckland.

Whether you’re a history buff, a sport enthusiast or simply interested in exciting things to do in Auckland, there’s plenty to discover from performances and entertainment to interactive workshops, walks, tours and more.  

2. Explore Pasifika heritage at Auckland Central City Library 

You’ll find a beautiful ode to the cultural treasures of Moana Oceania at Lupe I Vao Ese (doves from different pastures) - a free exhibition opening 17 September 2025 to 06 March 2026 at Auckland Central City Library. Come along and explore the beautiful measina on display and learn more about how these treasures are living expressions of memory, identity, and connection.

Wider activity around the exhibition includes insightful artist talks, artboard pop-up at Wynyard Quarter, lightboxes around Te Komititanga and Darby Street and even interactive workshops that’ll teach you all about weaving, zine and diorama making. 

3. Join in on Celebrating Play around Tāmaki Makaurau 

Originally inspired by Sport NZ’s Play Week, Celebrating Play offers over a month of free or low-cost activities that encourage Aucklanders to do simply that… play!

From 29 Sept - 31 October you’ll have the opportunity to take part in fun events like ‘Back in the Day Play’ in Te Komititanga for a blast from the past, ‘Imaginary Worlds’ at Auckland Art Gallery to let your imagination run wild, The Great Mahjong Showdown at Ellen Melville

Centre that you won’t want to miss, Dungeons and Dragons sessions that’ll take you on epic adventures and much more.

These events are suitable for all ages and strive to highlight the importance of play for all, so don’t miss out and join us in celebrating play! 

4. Play around with these School Holiday Programme options 

Don’t forget to check out the list of School Holiday Programmes via OurAuckland! Consider this your go-to for awesome options like the engaging hands-on activities at MOTAT that will get you exploring automation and technology of the past, present and future.

Visit your local library for cool options from upcycling activities, to obstacle courses even a LEGO challenge to keep your whānau entertained while learning and having fun along the way.

Wanting to get the kids more active these holidays? How about spending your school holidays at your local Auckland Council Pools and Leisure centre? Check out what’s in store this spring, from nature hikes and playground missions to arts and crafts, even big adventures indoors that include movie days and museum trips.  

5. Book a holiday escape right here in Tāmaki Makaurau region 

Consider an affordable getaway with the whānau, right here in Tāmaki Makaurau where you can stay and play! Bookings are available at any one of Auckland Council’s three holiday parks: Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park, Martins Bay Holiday Park and Whangateau Holiday Park.

All Auckland Council holiday parks have a wide range of affordable accommodation options and facilities to suit your needs.

There’s also plenty of extra in and around each holiday park to keep everyone entertained for the duration of your stay, from a wide range of waters sports on offer, to exciting land activities with epic walks and scenery to explore, even local cuisine for the foodies. 

Heaps to choose from! 

Have a play and choose a mix of activities that suit your whānau best over the school holidays. With plenty to choose from, you can ensure everyone’s interests are accounted for, just jump into OurAuckland to start planning your next adventure over the school holiday break.