Activities for the whole family in Whangārei these summer holidays

Finding things to do to keep the kids busy during the summer holidays can be difficult. I was.

See 500-year-old Kauri trees at AH Reed Memorial Kauri Park

There are several ways to enjoy this famous Whangarei site, some of which are over 500 years old.

Walk along Faleola Road from Mare Park to join the infamous promenade or simply depart from the AH Reed car park.

Read the informational sign at the beginning of the trail and get inspired by Alfred Hamish Reed, who at the age of 85 walked from the North Cape to Bluff, for whom the land is named.

There are 3 different trails to choose from. Enjoy suspension bridges, high treetops, snap precious kauri photos and, if you prefer, walk to Whangarei Falls (Otuihau).

AH Reed has an additional waterfall called Paranui Falls, hidden along a treetop path.

If you don’t want to walk all the way to Whangarei Falls, soak up the natural splendor of the 24-metre waterfall. If you want a bit of a challenge, you can climb the stairs to the observation deck.

No dogs allowed here.

circle the playground

There are four playgrounds to enjoy along the Hatea Loop, providing great incentives for children to be active.

These are Pocket Park by the footbridge, the recently improved Town Basin playground, the soon-to-open Pohe Island Adventure Park, and several monkey bars next to cafes where parents can stop for a cup of tea or coffee. .

Children of all ages enjoy watching the boats. The loop is stroller-, wheelchair-, scooter-, roller-skate-, longboard-, and bicycle-friendly, so everyone can participate. In addition, there is a cafe on the way to check out.

Explore industrial heritage at Whangarei Quarry Gardens

The spot has four different gardens run by dedicated volunteers. In addition to gardens that stimulate the senses, there is also a garden full of bromeliads and a garden dedicated to camellias.

The site is also a historic site as it still retains remnants of a fully functioning quarry. There is a tunnel for children to play in, and other concrete bases can be seen along the hillside walkway.

There are three different walks for each fitness type. We recommend allowing at least an hour to explore the Garden Trail.

Quail Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing drink and delicious snacks on a hot day. Plant lovers will find a variety of tropical plants at the entrance to the award-winning gardens.

This spot requires a gold coin donation, but it’s worth it.

Dogs are not allowed.

Feed the ducks at Mare Park

Playgrounds, picnic spots and a river where you can feed ducks – heaven for toddlers.

Bring a bag of frozen peas to feed the ducks (do not feed the ducks bread – bad for the ducks!).

With plenty of shade and space for the kids to roam, it’s a great place to spend a hot day.

Take the train in Kiwi North

On open days, Kiwi North has trains as well as steam and tractor rides.

You can also visit the museum, which currently has an exhibition about Mount Manaia and Palihaka.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch Kiwi disco dancing in her dark room. However, it has to be quiet and no photos are allowed.

Adventuring with Heads Up

Heads Up Adventures is just outside Onerahi and is great for a wide range of ages. There are mountain bike trails, monster scooter trails, and forest paintball.

There is also a café at the top of the hill with great views, where parents can relax while the kids work off their energy.

Check out their website here: https://headsupadventures.co.nz/.

become a mermaid

Sacha Williamson has been diving for many years and offers a wide variety of courses, including water safety workshops, a variety of freediving courses from beginner to advanced, and mermaid courses.

Mermaid is one of her favorite courses. A one-day course starts at $90 for her and can learn to be a mermaid from the age of 6.

Information can be found here.

Glide through the trees on a flying fox

Just outside Glenbarbie Forest, 10 minutes from Whangarei CBD, Adventure Forest is suitable for all ages and fitness types.

There is a good range of heights and there are 12 circuits and 30 ziplines to choose from.

The first four courses are designed for kids starting at age 6, and the remaining eight courses are designed for daredevils looking for more of a challenge.

Fees: Children (ages 6-15) $32. Students (ages 16-26, student ID required) $38; adults (ages 16 and up) $42.

Passes are valid for up to 3 hours.

You can check it here: https://adventureforest.co.nz/.

do some flips

Flip out Whangarei is a popular way to spend a few hours. If you have some extra cash, there are plenty of arcade games out there too.

Prices start at $12 for under 8s and $18 for over 8s.

Suitable for all ages.

create art

The Quarry Arts Center in Whangarei offers a variety of art classes and holiday programs.

The School Holiday Arts Program runs January 16-27.

Painting, clay, glaze, and many other fun creative activities.

Half-day workshops or full-day sessions are available. Classes range from $15 to $55 (all day).

Reservations are required. You can make a reservation here.