School Holidays is just around the corner!

Looking for things to do with the kids these school holidays? Whether you’re visiting Taranaki or looking for local family fun, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite activities to help keep the little ones entertained this winter.

Free Family Activities

Brooklands Zoo

A favourite for local families, Brooklands Zoo offers a free day out where children can get up close to a range of animals. Pair your visit with a walk through nearby Pukekura Park to make a full day of it.

https://www.npdc.govt.nz/brooklands-zoo/

Pukekura Park

One of New Plymouth’s most iconic attractions, Pukekura Park is perfect for exploring, feeding the ducks, enjoying a picnic, or simply burning off some energy outdoors.

https://www.npdc.govt.nz/leisure-and-culture/pukekura-park/

Outdoor Adventures

Hillsborough Mini Putt & Luge

Open throughout the school holidays, Hillsborough offers mini golf and luge rides for the whole family. A great way to spend a sunny winter afternoon.

https://www.hillsboroughholdenmuseum.co.nz/minigolf

Rainy Day Activities

Kidz Korner

When the weather isn’t cooperating, Kidz Korner provides a safe indoor space for children aged 0 to 12 years to climb, slide and play.

https://kidzkorner.co.nz/

Bowlarama Family Entertainment Centre

Enjoy ten pin bowling, arcade games and family friendly entertainment suitable for all ages.

https://www.bowlaramanp.co.nz/

Arts, Crafts and Creative Activities

Taranaki has plenty of creative events taking place during the holidays, including:

• Matariki Family Art Special • TUKU Artist Workshops • Story Time Sessions • Craft Workshops • Star Makers Activities • Library Events Across Taranaki

Check with participating venues for dates and booking requirements. Click here for all the details.

School Holiday Programmes

YMCA Taranaki

Offering sports, arts, crafts, games and activities for children aged 5 to 13 years.

https://ymcataranaki.org.nz/school-holiday-programmes

Edventure Taranaki

Outdoor adventures, themed activity days and workshops designed to keep children active and engaged throughout the holidays.

https://www.edventure.co.nz/taranaki

Family Friendly Food Stops

Urban Scoop

Don’t let the winter weather fool you. Urban Scoop continues to serve ice creams, desserts, thickshakes and sweet treats throughout the holidays.

Urban Scoop

Knead Donuts

More than just donuts, Knead also serves barista made coffee and freshly made sandwiches, making it a great stop for lunch or an afternoon treat.

https://kneaddonuts.co.nz/

Kids Eat Free at Haukai Bistro & Bar

Make dining out easy these school holidays. For a limited time, children can enjoy a complimentary meal when dining with a paying adult at Haukai Bistro & Bar.

Whether you’re stopping in after a day of adventures or looking for a family dinner option, Haukai offers a welcoming atmosphere and menu options the whole family will enjoy.

Find our more here!

Staying in New Plymouth?

If you’re planning a family getaway to Taranaki these school holidays, Novotel New Plymouth Taranaki is centrally located and within easy reach of many of the region’s top family attractions.

With our special Novotel family deal in a twin room including breakfast for $265 or our Accor family deal with 50% off the second room, it’s the perfect place to bring the whole family!