Planning a trip to Auckland with kids? Scroll to check out 10 of the most kid-friendly Auckland attractions, activities, and cool things to do.
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Last month, our family flew from Seattle to Auckland, New Zealand, for a big family vacation. It was incredible to witness the beauty of Auckland with kids.
New Zealand is gaining popularity among families because it’s such a friendly and gorgeous city! Auckland is the major city in New Zealand’s North Island. There are many waterfalls, landscapes, and unique wildlife to witness and explore.
You’re in luck if you’re looking for great things to do during your visit. That’s because there are a gazillion exciting things to do in Auckland with kids, and a great way to spend an entire afternoon. From kid-friendly pubs to exciting adventures, Auckland offers it all to families.
I did a ton of research before our trip (anything worth doing is worth OVERdoing, right?) We only had a few days in Auckland, so I had to pick and choose which activities were realistic for this trip. But we’ll definitely be back.
If you have more time, check out this 16-day New Zealand Itinerary my friend wrote for my site last year. It was so helpful when I planned our own trip to Auckland with kids.
10 Incredible Things to Do When Visiting Auckland with Kids
1. Auckland Zoo
One of our favorite family attractions in Auckland, Auckland Zoo has over 135 species of animals, for a combined total of more than 1,400 animals for your family to enjoy.
Pay attention to special dates on upcoming events and keeper talks, where you can learn more about the more unique species at the zoo.
You will learn that the New Zealand Fur Seal, can hold its breath for up to 11 minutes on a single dive. Be sure to visit any day of the year except for Christmas Day.
2. Auckland War Memorial Museum
The Auckland War Memorial Museum has several galleries that reveal and bring to life the rich history of the ancient people of Oceania and New Zealand.
Several hands-on exhibits, including an edible garden exhibit where children can sample several edible greens, will capture their imaginations.
The Pou Kahohi exhibit will help you experience and learn what life was like for the men and women who served in WWII.
Book your Auckland Museum tickets.
3. Explore Butterfly Creek
Butterfly Creek is a hidden gem in Auckland, that provides a neat experience for young and old alike. Located near the Auckland airport, this is a beautiful place where you can walkthrough a giant butterfly house right when many beautiful winged insects are released or get close to a real alligator.
There are even giant dinosaurs that stand tall in the park. Most children’s favorite attraction, the Mythic Creatures Exhibit, has dragons, unicorns, aliens, mermaids, and, let’s not forget, Bigfoot.
You’ll also find a playground for the kids to run around while mom and dad get a break. Their Dinosaur Kingdom is a hit among kids!
4. Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium
Your family will go deep underwater for a close-up encounter with amazing sea creatures at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium. The aquarium has sharks, stingrays, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses.
While visiting the seahorse portion of the aquarium, keep your eyes peeled for the Spiny Sea Dragons. This is one of the few displays of these creatures worldwide.
They even boast the world’s biggest species of stingray and the largest southern hemisphere penguin colony.
Book your Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium tickets.
5. Head to the Top of Sky Tower
As soon as you reach Auckland, the first thing your child will see is Sky Tower. Located in the Auckland CBD, heading to the top of this tower provides a stunning sky-view panorama of the Auckland area. You can even see volcanoes and other landmarks in the distance.
Is your family more of the adventurous type? Sky Tower has a SkyWalk where you can test your footing and fear of heights around the tower. Many daredevils enjoy the rush of SkyJump, where you can leap right off the edge of the tower.
There are also three restaurants and cafes to choose from.
6. Winter Retreat at Snowplanet
Are you visiting the Auckland area and needing some winter activities? If so, you’re in for a cool treat! Snowplanet is located about 20 minutes north of Auckland City and has several snow recreational activities for everyone in your clan.
They offer skiing and snowboarding, tubing, and other games. You can also learn to ski with their skilled instructors, who will have you skiing like a pro in no time.
There’s even a restaurant where you can refuel for more excitement.
7. Find a Pot of Gold at Rainbow’s End
Auckland’s largest theme park, Rainbow’s End, has over 20 ride attractions and 5 high-thrill rides you won’t want to miss. How about twisting and turning on the Corkscrew Coaster, or dare to ride the Stratosfear, the park’s scariest thrill ride?
Is it a hot day during your visit? Rainbow’s End has several water rides that can cool you off in an exciting fashion. If you have children below the age of 8, Kidz Kingdom is a portion of the theme park built for smaller kiddos’ enjoyment.
8. Go Virtual Reality at VR Voom
Auckland’s largest virtual reality theme park, VR Voom, is up your video gaming alley. It offers motorbike racing, shooting, and survival games. There’s even a section suitable for children under 6 years of age.
This theme park provides different packages and experiences depending on your preferences and the amount you’re willing to spend.
9. Explore Silo Park
Silo Park in Auckland is a fantastic place for families to enjoy a variety of activities. Located in North Wharf, this vibrant area offers plenty of open space for kids to run around, as well as regular events and entertainment.
You can enjoy outdoor movies, food markets, and even a scavenger hunt to entertain the whole family. With street performers and delicious food options, Silo Park is a perfect spot for a fun and relaxing day out.
While you’re there, you can also check out the New Zealand Maritime Museum, which is a little over a mile from Silo Park.
10. Kiwi Valley Farm Park
Kiwi Valley Farm Park offers your family a laid-back farming atmosphere, various fun activities, and animals to see on its farm. This marvelous place is located in the Hunua Ranges, a short drive from Auckland.
Be sure to hop on a tractor or pony ride and help hand-feed the farm animals. They even have llamas and ostriches you can visit.
Get lost in their giant maze and then head over to their playground so the kids can wear off some extra energy. It’s also the perfect venue if your child happens to be celebrating a birthday while you are visiting.
These are a handful of neat places and things to do in Auckland while you’re visiting with your family.
Other Family-Friendly Things to Do in Auckland with Kids
- Auckland Art Gallery: The Auckland Art Gallery hosts family-friendly exhibitions and a Creative Learning Centre. It’s a perfect place for kids to engage in art activities and explore creativity.
- Auckland Domain: The Auckland Domain is the city’s oldest park, featuring vast open spaces, walking trails, and the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Kids will enjoy the playgrounds and the beautiful gardens.
- Cornwall Park: Cornwall Park offers extensive picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a great spot for family outings and outdoor adventures.
- Waiheke Island: A short ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and outdoor activities. It’s an excellent destination for a day trip with the family.
- North Head: North Head provides stunning views of the harbor and historical tunnels to explore. It’s an exciting adventure spot for kids interested in history and nature.
Which of these do you think your family will enjoy most? If you’ve visited Auckland with kids in the past, what neat places did you hit up?