Explore Auckland’s top 7 family-friendly attractions

It’s family holiday time, and you need a game plan! Lucky for you, Auckland has plenty to fill an action-packed itinerary, whether you’re here for a weekend or a week. 

With such a diverse range of attractions, outdoor adventures and indoor activities, it’s easy to keep everyone happy!

1. Visit Wētā Workshop Unleashed & All Blacks Experience at SkyCity

Ever wondered how the creepy monsters in movies are made? Or how sci-fi worlds come to life on screen? At Wētā Workshop Unleashed, you’ll step behind the curtain of special effects and filmmaking and see how movie magic is made.

Brought to you by the team behind some of New Zealand’s most legendary blockbuster movies, this hands-on, super immersive tour is packed with wild creatures, epic props, miniature models and mind-blowing animatronics. 

Local tip: While the tour is suitable for all ages, sections of the tour are horror-themed so parental guidance is recommended and the scary bits can be skipped!

Got a young rugby fan in the family? Or just keen to see what all the fuss is about? The All Blacks Experience is part history lesson, part interactive fun, and 100% awesome.

You’ll dive into the stories of New Zealand’s most legendary team, test your rugby skills in hands-on challenges, and, best of all, experience a spine-tingling haka like never before.

Even if you don’t know your scrums from your tries, this place will leave you with an understanding of what connects fans to this iconic sport.

2. Auckland Zoo Te Whare Karare-he O Tāmaki Makaurau

Lions and tigers and kea, oh my! Auckland Zoo is a lush nature space that is home to everything from Sumatran tigers and Galapagos tortoises to Aotearoa New Zealand’s own iconic kiwi. 

Stroll the expansive Africa Safari Track and connect with awe-inspiring animals from the world’s tallest land mammal, the giraffe, to the quill-laden African porcupine. The Zoo’s amazing mixed-species habitats mean you can see animals like rhinoceroses, waterbuck and nyala sharing the same spaces!

Immerse yourself in the Zoo’s sanctuary for New Zealand’s native wildlife at Te Wao Nui and you’ll come close to kākā, tuatara and more. You’ll also learn how the Zoo works with the Department of Conservation to protect these species for generations to come.

Look up high when you’re on the South East Asia Jungle Track and you just might see orangutans and siamangs traversing 25-metre high aerial pathways just over your head!

You can learn more about the animals, the science behind their care and efforts to conserve them in the Zoo’s free keeper talks. Find the schedule at aucklandzoo.co.nz or on the back of your Zoo map.

3. Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

Experience your own real-life nature documentary! Departing from Viaduct Harbour, you’ll cruise out into the Hauraki Gulf aboard a purpose-built marine research catamaran.

With knowledgeable commentary and insights from marine experts, you’ll learn more about Auckland’s coastal landmarks, while keeping an eye out for local marine life known to frequent the harbour, including orca, dolphins, seals, sharks and seabirds.

The safari is a 4.5-hour round trip, so pack some snacks, as you’re welcome to bring your own food on board. There is also a licensed café selling a selection of drinks and snacks.

4. Clip ‘n Climb

Clip ‘n Climb is a giant vertical playground where kids (and brave grown-ups) can scale, leap and conquer epic climbing challenges.

This bright, colourful indoor climbing gym has more than 30 themed climbing walls, as well as extra challenges - the Leap of Faith and Vertical Drop Slide. No experience needed, just clip in and climb your way to the top!

Only closed-toe shoes are allowed (no sandals, flip flops or rock shoes). This is a popular activity on days when the weather outside is lousy, so it’s wise to pre-book.

5. Rainbow’s End Theme Park

Buckle up for a day of twists, turns, and tummy-flipping thrills at Rainbow’s End, Auckland’s biggest theme park. The daring can take on the ‘Big 5’ - the Stratosfear, Invader, Fearfall, Power Surge and the iconic Corkscrew Coaster - featuring the park’s highest drops and fastest speeds. 

Got littlies? No worries. Kidz Kingdom has rides perfect for under-8s. There are also family favourites like the Log Flume, Dodgems, bumper boats and more!

So, whether you’re here for a few fun scares or some wholesome friendly rivalry, this place guarantees a day of laughs and happy memories.

6. Stardome Observatory & Planetarium

Explore a whole galaxy without leaving Auckland. At Stardome Observatory & Planetarium at Maungakiekie One Tree Hill, you can explore the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits, live shows, movies and a visit to the state-of-the-art 360-degree dome Planetarium. 

In the Planetarium theatre, you’ll recline in comfortable seats as you tilt towards the skies above, and learn how to identify stars and planets.

Over the school holidays there are often special kids’ shows; check the schedule on the Stardome website to plan your trip and book ahead.

7. Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq

Step right up to a world of family fun at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, a lively entertainment space with bowling, dodgem cars, virtual reality experiences and classic carnival games all under one roof.

While the kids will love battling for high scores and tickets for prizes, caregivers too will love the nostalgia of some of their favourite childhood games. 

Located within Westfield Newmarket, it’s the perfect spot to spend a few hours of playful chaos, followed by a bite to eat at the food court or rooftop dining precinct.