Our guide to a perfect family holiday in Auckland

If there’s one destination that truly delivers a choose-your-own-adventure holiday, it’s Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Imagine visiting wild black-sand beaches, exploring art trails or kayaking to an island, all in the same weekend.

With stays designed for all lengths, this guide will help you mix and match to build the perfect Auckland itinerary, come rain or shine.

For the adventurous family

Get the adrenaline pumping at Vector Wero Whitewater Park in Manukau, where you can experience the rush of white-water rafting and kayaking within a man-made lake.

The park features two expertly designed courses: the gentle Tamariki River, perfect for beginners and children, and the more challenging River Rush, for those craving a bit more of a challenge. For the ultimate thrill, take on the Pump Waterfall, the tallest artificial rafted waterfall in the world.

​​If exploring the open waters appeals to your family, Auckland Sea Kayaks offers guided tours that showcase the city's stunning coastline and nearby islands. Take a sunset tour to Rangitoto Island, where you’ll hike to the summit for unbeatable views over the Hauraki Gulf.

Over on Waiheke Island, EcoZip Adventures will send you soaring above native bush. Take in breathtaking views of the island and beyond, as you glide side-by-side on dual zip lines through the forest canopy. With your feet back on solid ground, there’s still more to explore, with an immersive forest walk where you’ll learn about the island's flora and fauna.

When the weather isn't cooperating, Auckland still has plenty to offer. Head indoors to Thrillzone in Takapuna, where you’ll find everything from virtual reality experiences and laser tag to escape rooms that will test your family’s teamwork.

Or, for a memorable undercover adventure, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium offers a shark cage dive, where you can come face-to-face with massive sharks in a safe, controlled environment - no diving experience required.

If you’re craving excitement but prefer to stay dry, head to the ocean’s depths and explore a whole new world with the Undersea Explorer Virtual Reality Experience.

For the relaxers

Not every holiday must be go-go-go. If your family prefers a holiday that’s all about slow mornings, beautiful scenery, and stress-free exploring, Auckland ticks that box too.

Start by checking in to Cordis Auckland, a hotel that takes relaxation to another level. With spacious family-friendly rooms, a rooftop pool, and a luxurious day spa, Chuan Spa, it’s the perfect base for a laid-back Auckland getaway. Their signature High Tea in The Chandelier Lounge can also cater to kids with beautiful treats your young travellers will enjoy.

If unwinding with great food is high on your list, take a short ferry ride to Waiheke Island and settle in at The Heke, a relaxed, family-friendly spot that serves up delicious craft beer, locally distilled spirits, and hearty Kiwi-inspired meals. Plus, there is plenty of space for the kids to run around while you sit back and take in the view.

For a leisurely way to explore the city, let someone else do the navigating with GoGuided. This self-drive tour experience comes with a GPS-guided app that leads you to Auckland’s best spots at your own pace, no need to stress about maps or directions. Simply follow the route, soak up the views, and stop whenever something catches your eye.

Mission Bay is a must-visit for a relaxed day by the water. Take a slow stroll along the promenade, grab an ice cream and let the kids play at the beach. Enjoy a laidback dinner at one of the local eateries, or take a blanket and enjoy fish and chips by the beach, while taking in the views of Rangitoto Island and watching the evening activity on the water. 

For the foodie family

If your family’s idea of the perfect holiday revolves around discovering delicious food, Auckland has a smorgasbord of flavours waiting to be explored. 

Kick off your culinary adventure at SkyCity, home to some of the city’s best family-friendly eateries. For a dining experience the kids will love, head to Andy’s Burgers & Bar, where robot waiters deliver mouth-watering burgers and shakes straight to your table.

Fortuna Buffet Restaurant caters to every taste, with an extensive spread of fresh salads, live carvery, classic Kiwi dishes and international flavours, perfect for both fussy eaters and adventurous foodies alike.

The Big Foody Food Tours offers an unforgettable guided experience through Auckland’s best eats. Whether you’re into artisanal cheeses, local seafood, or hidden-gem cafes, these tours take you behind the scenes of the city’s vibrant food scene with plenty of tastings along the way.

No foodie trip to Auckland is complete without a visit to Giapo, where ice cream is transformed into edible art. This isn’t your average scoop-on-a-cone experience; think ice cream decorated with incredible baked goods, chocolate-dipped creations, and towering, sculptural masterpieces. 

Can’t see quite what you’re looking for? From laid back outdoor venues and kid-friendly cafes to spacious restaurants, Auckland has many more family-friendly restaurants to choose from.

For the budget conscious

Auckland might be New Zealand’s biggest city, but that doesn’t mean you need a big budget to have a great time; there are plenty of family-friendly activities that won’t break the bank. 

Start with a visit to Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum, where kids can explore everything from dinosaur skeletons to Māori cultural exhibits. (Bonus: Auckland residents get free entry). 

If the sun’s shining, pack a picnic and head to Silo Park at Wynyard Quarter. Kids can enjoy the playground, splash in the water play area, check out the superyachts or watch free outdoor movies in summer. 

For an all-weather family activity, visit Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. This vibrant, carnival-style arcade is packed with classic and modern games, virtual reality experiences and even a bowling alley. Entry is free, then you top up a game card with your desired amount of money and play at your own pace.

Need more time in nature? Take a drive to Cheltenham Beach, where the calm waters make for a perfect budget-friendly beach day. The nearby village of Devonport has quaint cafes, shops, and art galleries to explore, as well as the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum.

For the nature lovers

Start your journey at Auckland Botanic Gardens, where you can wander through themed gardens filled with native and exotic plants. The Potter Children’s Garden is a local favourite, with interactive elements designed to inspire curiosity and play.

For something a little more tucked away, visit Eden Garden Society, a lush, peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a quiet stroll among vibrant flowers and plants.

If your family enjoys getting hands-on with nature, Social Nature Movement offers immersive outdoor experiences, from guided rock climbing or snorkeling, to peaceful stargazing or stand-up paddleboarding tours. 

For an expertly guided experience, Bush and Beach provides eco-tours that take you beyond the city and into Auckland’s breathtaking landscapes. Try the Wilderness Experience Nature Tour or the Coast and Rainforest Walking Day Tour to explore the rugged black sand beaches of the west coast, wander through ancient kauri forests, and learn about the region’s rich natural and cultural history along the way.

Closer to the city, Cornwall Park is a must-visit for nature-loving families. With sprawling green spaces, grazing sheep, and stunning views from One Tree Hill, it’s a perfect place for a picnic or a relaxed afternoon walk.

For the creative imaginations

If your family enjoys art, creativity, and storytelling, Auckland has plenty to inspire the imagination. Start at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, home to an impressive collection of New Zealand and international art. With interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops, it’s a great way to engage kids while immersing them in the country’s artistic heritage.

For a truly immersive experience, step into the world of movie magic at Wētā Workshop Unleashed. This behind-the-scenes tour takes you through fantastical film sets, special effects demonstrations, and hands-on activities that bring the world of filmmaking to life. It’s perfect for families who love creativity, design, and storytelling.

Discover a gallery with a twist; head north to Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, where art and landscape come together outdoors. The 2km walk weaves through lush native bush, past striking contemporary sculptures, and opens up to breathtaking vineyard views.

For those who appreciate design and stylish spaces, a stay at QT Auckland makes for a memorable experience. This boutique hotel is an artwork in itself, with bold interiors, eclectic décor, and a vibrant atmosphere that blends luxury with artistic expression. Even if you're not staying overnight, their rooftop bar is a great place to soak in the city skyline while enjoying a creative cocktail (or a mocktail for the kids).