Julie Lankow, Author at Kidspot

Book Review | Once There Was by Kiyash Monsef

Posted on 23/08/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

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Discover a world of extraordinary beasts and unexpected heroes in Once There Was, the dazzling debut from New York Times bestselling author Kiyash Monsef.

Once was, once wasn’t …

So began the stories Marjan’s father told her as a little girl – tales of mythical beasts that filled her with curiosity and wonder: Griffons. Unicorns. Dragons.

But Marjan is not a little girl anymore. After her father’s sudden death, she is trying to hold it all together: her schoolwork, her friendships and her dad’s struggling veterinary practice. But a mysterious visitor soon reveals that Marjan’s father was no ordinary vet. The creatures from his stories are real – and he travelled the world to care for them.

Stepping into a secret world hidden in plain sight, where magical creatures are bought and sold, treasured and trapped, Marjan must take her father’s place. The deeper in she gets, the closer she comes to a shocking truth that will put both humans and beasts in terrible danger.

Once There Was is perfect for readers aged 9+ and fans of Philip Pullman, Neil Gaiman, J.K. Rowling and A.F. Steadman.

Grab your copy of Once There Was

Be in to win 1 of 3 copies of Once There Was!

We are giving away three copies of this magical novel, perfect for lovers of Skandar and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

To enter, simply name three magical creatures that feature in Once There Was. (Hint: You will find the answer on this page).

Enter now

Read reviews from our Young Readers!

Holly, age 14

Once There Was is a magical novel about Marjan, a girl who discovers that her father was secretly a veterinarian to magical creatures. After his death she finds that she must take up his job, despite the many dangers.

This book was a great page turner and I always had to keep reading. I especially loved all the fantastic magical beasts and Marjan’s fearless nature.

This book is definitely at 10/10. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves fantasy and magic.

Ellen, age 14

Hi my name is Ellen and I had the pleasure of reading Once There Was, the latest book from Kiyash Monsef. The story begins with a fairytale that Marjan, the main character, was told by her father when she was young. The next chapter skips to her at 15 years old, the new owner of her dad’s vet clinic. A role she has had to take on after becoming an orphan as her mother passed from cancer when she was 7, then her father mysteriously dies. The chapters alternate between her father’s tales and her current situation running her father’s struggling vet clinic.

Marjan struggles with the responsibilities of the vet clinic, all while trying to survive high school. Until a peculiar visitor arrives and persuades Marjan to travel to the UK, where she discovers all of her dad’s fairytales were real.

I think that this book would suit readers aged 11 years and above, who are interested in fantasy and make-believe.

I give this book a 7.5/10. Thank You to Kidspot to dive into this mystical and creative story.

Niam, age 13

Hello, My name is Niamh and this is my review on the book Once There Was by Kiyash Monsef.

This story is about a young girl named Marjan, who is coping with the sudden death of her father. She is pulled into the world of her father’s stories after a fateful trip to England.

Now, in her father’s place, as a vet for creatures of the imagination, with a magical room mate and runaway unicorn, Marjan has to save them all from the terrible truth that could alter the future for everyone’s existence.

The author has done an outstanding job at making loveable characters that make the story all the better. The setting is always changing, never the same place twice, it just makes the story so exciting. The story is so moving and capturing it makes you want to keep reading.

I believe this book is aimed at the age group 10-15, because it is quite long and maybe a bit mature for too young of a reader.

I would rate this book a 4.5 out of 5 and would place it in the top 20 of my favourite books. It is an amazing book that everyone should read. Thank you for reading my review!

Zara, age 12

Kia ora. My name is Zara and I’m 12 years old.

A few weeks ago I received a book in the post, called Once There Was, written by Kiyash Monsef. You might already know that mythical creatures aren’t real but this fictional book really made you second guess yourself. Some of my favourite themes in the book were courage, good versus evil, betrayal and revenge.

If I was to recommend this book to a certain age I would recommend it to kids aged 10 onwards because of the size of the book and it had some scary parts that not everyone would enjoy reading about.

Overall the rating for this book would have to be a 4 out of 5, because it was great to read except for when it took a bit too long building suspense for the exciting parts. Other than that it was amazing and cool, plus I would really recommend reading this fictional book.

Reviewers are provided with a copy of the book for the purposes of the review. Views are those of the reviewers. This article contains information provided by HarperCollins.

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Why Fruits & Veggies Are Essential For School Kids Health

Posted on 18/08/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

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One of the most impactful ways to support your child’s well-being during the school-age years is by incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into their daily diet. Packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fibre, these natural wonders offer many benefits that can contribute to your child’s growth, development, and overall vitality.

The school-age years are marked by rapid growth, both physically and mentally. Fruits and vegetables offer a host of benefits that are particularly vital during this developmental phase. By providing a diverse range of nutrient-rich options and using creative strategies to encourage kids to eat them, you can set your child on a path towards a lifetime of healthy eating habits.

Nutritional needs for school kids

Fruits and vegetables are nutritional powerhouses that deliver a wide range of health benefits to growing children. Here’s a closer look at why they are so vital for school kids.

Brain health and cognitive development

The vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, contribute to optimal brain function and cognitive development. These nutrients can aid in memory and concentration.

Energy for activities

As school-age kids become more active, they require energy to fuel their physical activities. Fruits provide natural sugars that supply immediate energy, while the fibre in both fruits and vegetables provides sustained energy release.

Immune support

School environments may expose children to various germs. The vitamins A and C in fruits and vegetables can strengthen the immune system, helping your child to fend off illnesses.

Bone health

Calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health, are found in many vegetables and fruits like broccoli, oranges, and spinach. These nutrients can aid in maintaining strong bones and teeth, crucial for active kids.

Digestive health

Fibre-rich fruits and vegetables promote healthy digestion and can reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort to help your child focus on their studies.

Tips for encouraging schools kids to eat more fruit and veggies

Include colourful options: Vibrantly coloured fruits and vegetables are not only visually appealing but also packed with diverse nutrients. Try blueberries, carrots, strawberries, and bell peppers.
Snack smartly: Replace sugary or processed snacks with sliced fruits, carrot sticks, celery, or snowpeas. Preparing convenient and nutritious snacks makes it easier for your child to choose healthier options.
Lunchbox variety: Pack your child’s lunchbox with a combination of fresh fruits and vegetables. Cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, apple slices, and grapes are easy to include and enjoyable to eat.
Dips and sauces: Provide healthy dips like yogurt-based dressings or hummus to make raw vegetables and fruits more appealing.
Smoothies: Blend fruits and vegetables into delicious smoothies. The natural sweetness of fruits can mask the taste of certain veggies, making it a great way to sneak in nutrients.
Cook together: Involve your child in meal planning and preparation. Let them choose a new fruit or vegetable to try and experiment with simple recipes.
Educational approach: Teach your child about the importance of different nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. This knowledge can empower them to make healthier choices independently.
Grow your own: If possible, start a small vegetable or herb garden. Children often become more interested in trying foods they’ve grown themselves.

Written by Kidspot NZ.

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Lucy And The Dark by Melinda Szymanik | Book Review

Posted on 08/08/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

Promotion for Penguin Books

When Lucy makes friends with the Dark she discovers a new and exciting world! Meanwhile, everyone else discovers what it’s like to live without the Dark! Lucy and the Dark is a delightful bedtime story with a surprise at lights out in the form of a glow-in-the-dark cover.

“I’m Dark,” said the voice. “It’s all right if you don’t like me. Nobody does. Everyone is too afraid. Just close your eyes and by morning I’ll be gone.”

Dark heaved a sigh.

One night Lucy meets the Dark and they zoom away on an adventure to explore all the wonderful things that happen when the Dark is around. But back home, everyone else is realising that they really do miss the Dark after all. Can Lucy and Dark be convinced to return?

From the award-winning creators of My Elephant is Blue comes this gorgeous, funny, and reassuring bedtime story about why we should ALL make friends with the Dark (recommended for children aged 3-7). Lucy’s adventure brings her back home to her mum, extremely ready to go to sleep, and with the hidden glow-in-the-dark pictures on the cover to discover, this is a story that will have the most reluctant child looking forward to turning off the light.

Buy your copy of “Lucy and the Dark”

Reader review from Emmeline

This was a lovely story about a girl overcoming her fear of the dark and learning about all the amazing things that can happen in the dark. It would be a great book for kids who have a fear of the dark/nighttime.

My 4-year-old said, “She is friends with the dark now ay mum?” And Mr 2 said, “They did a high 5!” Both boys were fully engaged and loved the story.

It was also a special surprise to turn the lights off after reading and seeing the cover glow! My boys can’t wait for ‘lights out’ after reading this book! So far we have read the book three nights in a row and once in the morning – so it is safe to say it is a favourite.

The author has a lovely writing style making the book easy to read and I would certainly read more books by this author. Overall, a really nice book with a lovely message – I am sure we will be reading it again and again!

Five stars – myself and the kids really enjoyed it.

Puffin Book of the Month activities

Let little imaginations grow with our Puffin Book Club activities! We have a huge range of fun, printable activities from all your favourite new Puffin books for children.

Go hunting for bugs, colour in some rascally Hairy Maclary friends, learn to count in te reo with Pūkeko, join the Lighthouse Princess on a spot-the-difference adventure, or choose any of the other great activities.

Free and printable – which ones will you choose?

Choose your fun!

Don’t forget to visit Puffin Books for more great kids’ titles.

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Book Review | Batpig: Go Pig or Go Home by Rob Harrell

Posted on 28/07/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

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Batpig: Go Pig or Go Home is the third book in a brilliantly funny young graphic novel series, with two separate stories in each book.

Gary Yorkshire and his friends, Carl the fish and Brooklyn the bat, are facing what might be their piggest mission yet: magical sharks – and summer camp! First, there’s the sudden appearance of Sharkraham Lincoln (half shark! half president!), who sets off a major test cheating scandal. And then, at the worryingly named Camp Whomp-a-Pig, Gary’s hoping to finally get a break from superhero-ing, but a grumpy lake monster isn’t letting this sleeping pig lie.

Will Batpig ever catch a break to just relax and enjoy a tasty sandwich, and not have to save the world?

Brilliantly written and skilfully rendered by Rob Harrell, Batpig: Go Pig or Go Home is ideal reading for ages 7+.

Grab your copy of Batpig: Go Pig or Go Home!

Be in to win 1 of 3 copies of Batpig: Go Pig or Go Home

Superswines assemble! We’re giving away three copies of this hilarious graphic novel.

To be in to win, simply tell us who Batpig’s two friends are that are in the water on the cover of the book.

Competition has now closed.

Enter now

Read the reviews from our Young Readers!

Review from Fin, age 11

Hi, I’m Fin and I am doing a book review on Batpig: Go Pig or Go Home for Kidspot NZ. This book was very entertaining to read. I loved the characters and the humour.

The book is about a pig called Gary and his friends Brook the bat and Carl the cod. I really liked the names the author gave the characters in this book especially.

The book is broken into 2 miniature stories and it was really easy to read because it is a graphic novel. The pictures made the story come to life in my head and I have found myself reading it over and over again as I enjoyed it so much.

I would recommend kids aged about 5 upwards should read Batpig, especially kids that enjoy funny stories and animal characters. I am giving this book a 4.5 star rating.

Review from Kyle, age 8

My name is Kyle and I am 8 years old, I am doing a book review for Kidspot NZ on the book Batpig: Go Pig or Go Home by Rob Harrell.

This book is really cool! It has a comic vibe but in a book style. This has 2 stories in the book. 1st story is about Batpig being lazy with studying for a test and how he used a bit of magic and then all these wierd things started happening! 2nd story was Batpig went with his friends on camp and his identity got discovered, and how they went about to get it back to a secret!

I loved how the book is like a comic, I love the colours of the book. It is so funny and silly, it really makes you feel you reading something silly you and your friends would be doing. I liked how they dealt with Batpig feeling like he was all alone and left out with no friends, I sometimes feel like that. I also wish I had magic when I feel lazy to study!

My favourite characters where Gary, I relate to him, and Carl … he is funny!!!

I give this book 5 out of 5, it really makes you want to read it again and again. It has funny fun adventures that you really see yourself and friends doing 🙂

Review from Reid, age 11

I really enjoyed this book and think it’s a 5 out of 5. It intrigued me and kept me interested the whole time.

I like the pictures as it is enjoyable to read with being interesting to look at.

Loved it.

The reviewers were provided with a copy of the book for the purposes of the review. Views are those of the reviewers. This article contains information provided by HarperCollins.

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There Was An Odd Farmer Who Swallowed A Fly | New Book

Posted on 12/07/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

Promotion for Penguin Books

Peek through the holes in the pages to see what the odd farmer swallows in this favourite nursery rhyme with a pitch-perfect Kiwi twist!

Kiwi kids will love this favourite nursery rhyme with witty words by Peter Millett and hilarious illustrations by Paul Beavis – and a surprise twist at the end!

There was an odd farmer who swallowed a fly.
I dunno why she swallowed a fly —
it’s such weird kai.

Peek through the holes in the pages to see all the creatures inside the odd farmer! And what happens to them all at the end of the tale?

Expect a lot of belly laughs as you read this brilliant rhyming story aloud!

After the belly laughs reading There Was An Odd Farmer Who Swallowed a Fly, have some fun finding the words in this Word Search!

Print the Word Search

Buy your copy of ‘There Was An Odd Farmer Who Swallowed A Fly’

Reader review from Yasmin

There Was An Odd Farmer Who Swallowed A Fly, written by Peter Millett and illustrations by Paul Beavis.

The title is quite revealing about the book’s contents. It is a story about an Odd Farmer who swallowed a fly and all the other things she swallows to try and get rid of this fly. A special feature of this book is the little holes that show us inside her tummy and all the things she has swallowed so far.

My 18 month old daughter was mostly fascinated by these little holes and loved pointing at them and through them with her little fingers. My 6 year old son loved the growing absurdity with each page, the rhymes and the hilarious outcome at the end. There’s even a little bit of discussion that could be had about the ending with older kids too, as I read it to a class of 10 year olds as well. At first they thought it was too kiddy, but as soon as I read the first page, they were hooked.

The incorporation of simple te reo Māori was awesome as well as the Kiwi animals too! When I asked my son what those words meant, he was able to answer me and understood the words in context. We have had the book for about a week and have probably read it 5 times already.

There Was An Odd Farmer Who Swallowed A Fly

Our family really enjoyed this book for a few different reasons. When I asked my son why he enjoyed it, he replied “I like the book because there’s a horse, doggy, a cow AND a kune! It’s funny, every time we don’t know why the farmer swallowed the fly.” My daughter can’t speak yet but the first chance she got, she took the book off to a corner and sat turning the pages and enjoying the pictures. As a parent, I enjoyed reading the book because of the rhyme and the rhythm in it. It was funny and the pages are a very thick cardstock so I am not worried about the kids ripping the pages as they turn them.

Overall I give this book 5 stars and would recommend it as a gift to children or teachers for age groups anywhere from 1 year old up to 10 years old. My children and students enjoyed it and I would read it again.

Don’t forget to visit Puffin Books for more great kids’ titles.

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Barker’s Super Fruit Crush Multipack Pouches

Posted on 11/07/202323/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

Tried and tested by Kidspot parents

Kidspot parents gave Barker’s Super Fruit Crush Multipack Pouches an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5

Wishing for an easy and healthy option for hungry, active kids? It’s Barker’s to the rescue with Super Fruit Crush pouches – now in a pantry-ready multipack! This on-the-go snack is the perfect super food snack for lunch boxes, sports practice, or to CRUSH those afternoon hunger crunches.

Barker’s Super Fruit Crush pouches are the perfect healthy on-the-go snack. They have a health star rating of 4.5, contain over 90% fruit and are a good source of fibre, with no artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives. They are gluten-free and vegan-friendly and contain only natural sugars from fruit.

The new Multipacks are available in two flavours, Mixed Berry & Chia and Mango, Kiwifruit & Passionfruit allowing you to keep the pantry stocked with your favourite Super Fruit Crush flavours. They can even be frozen to become a fruit ice block!

Barker’s Super Fruit Crush pouches:

+90% fruit
source of fibre
contain no refined sugar, only natural sugars from fruit
no artificial colour, flavours, or preservatives
gluten-free
vegan-friendly

For more information visit Barker’s.co.nz.

You can find Barkers products at your local supermarket or buy online from Barker’s.co.nz.

Read the reviews!

We gave 50 families the chance to trial and review Barker’s Super Fruit Crush Multipack pouches. See their photos in the video and read more of the reviews in the comments below.

Popped a couple in the freezer and they loved taking them to school in their lunchboxes and were the envy of their friends who were intrigued by what they were. The portion sizes are so generous and not having a plastic lid is a game changer and makes opening them a breeze and having less rubbish is a win!

bunnyandboo

It was easy for him to open and he could squeeze every last little bit out of the pouch. I sent one in his lunch the next day in addition to his usual fruit, and everything was eaten, so it’s great that the pouches can add that extra bit of vitamins and goodness without cutting back on any of his other fruit in his lunch.

heatherp

We were one of the fortunate whānau that got to trial these and we are hooked! Our favourite was the Mango, the flavours are so intense and are even better frozen. We also tried the Berry and chia flavour with Greek yoghurt and it was delicious.

Leilah Karika

I’ll let my daughter do the review “It is soooo good. Sweet and fruity. I liked it in my school lunchbox. I didn’t have to ask the teacher to open it. I was scared it would have lumpy bits but it didn’t”

callum.irvine

Yum!! The kids loved these. Miss 7 said “these are delicious, they’re like yoghurt but better”. Master 11 & 13 couldn’t decide which flavour they liked more and thought they tasted like fruit smoothies.

April Head

Reviewer notes

If you have received the product for review, please scroll to the bottom of the page and add your feedback as a new comment.
Upload your review photos/videos to this Dropbox folder.
Each selected reviewer will receive:2 x multipacks of Barker’s Super Fruit Crush (1 x Mixed Berry & Chia and 1 x Mango, Kiwifruit & Passionfruit). Each multipack contains 4 pouches.
By registering for this product trial, you agree to the terms and conditions. Please note that comments, images, or videos provided by reviewers may be used by Barker’s on their website and social media channels to promote the product.

Please note

If you are selected to trial, the product will be sent to the address on your profile.
Please check your address now to ensure that it is up to date.
Kidspot Terms and Conditions apply, including: Open to Kidspot members 18+ only. Only available for NZ residents. If you are selected, you will be required to use the product as soon as possible and supply a review, as set out in our review instructions. Your name, email address, and contact phone number will be given to the supplier for the purpose of delivery.

Meet The Newest Member Of The Blistex Family

Posted on 10/07/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

Promotion for Blistex

Since 1947 Blistex has been cheerleading for happy, healthy lips and it’s delighted to introduce you to the newest family member – Agave Rescue. Packed with all the goodness of Agave, Peach, and Kakadu Plum extracts, this powerhouse lip balm will revitalise, soften and moisturise your lips like nothing else.

Compared to other skin on our body, our lips have the thinnest layers of skin along with fewer and different oil glands and no melanin – so it’s no surprise that wind, sun, cold, dry air and even sickness can cause them to dry out.

Introducing Agave Rescue

Agave is a super succulent and an ancient natural remedy, known for its healing properties and for containing vitamins for moisture that holds up in some of the harshest environments on the planet.

That’s why Blistex mobilised the power of more than 50 years of lip care expertise to develop a new lip balm that harnesses these healing and moisturising properties of agave.

Along with agave extract, the new Agave Rescue from Blistex contains Calendula to help soften and smooth chapped lips along with vitamins B1, C, D and K to deliver a burst of moisture.

Juicy fruits like peach and plum extracts are also incorporated to help revitalise the lips’ appearance while Coconut Oil and Natural Beeswax are also included to moisturise and protect lips.

The result is Agave Rescue – a powerhouse balm that moisturises lips for up to 24 hours.

Agave extract and Calendula help soften and soothe chapped lips
Peach and Kakadu plum extract revitalise the appearance
Coconut Oil and Natural Beeswax moisturise and protect lips
Lips are moisturised for up to 24 hours
Dermatologically tested

Blistex cares

It’s good to know, lip care experts Blistex, with over 70 years of experience in keeping your lips feeling smooth and hydrated, is continually innovating to produce a range of products to hydrate, condition and protect, no matter what conditions your lips are dealing with.

Blistex Agave Rescue is available at pharmacies nationwide including Chemist Warehouse and Bargain Chemist.

Grab your Agave Rescue now

This article was written by Her World with information provided by Blistex.

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Celebrating 100 Years of Auckland Zoo | Family Review

Posted on 27/06/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

Promotion for Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo opened its door to the Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland community on Saturday 16 December 1922. Since then, they have evolved to become an active conservation organisation and have welcomed over 28 million visitors to connect with nature, community, and wildlife.

At no time in its 100-year history has the role, relevance, and purpose of Auckland Zoo for people and for wildlife been more important than it is right now. With the help of its visitors, Auckland Zoo has donated over $5 million to conservation organisations through its Conservation Fund, plus their expert staff spend thousands of hours doing conservation fieldwork across the motu and overseas.

By visiting Auckland Zoo, you make a real and tangible contribution to the zoo’s conservation work here and in the wild. Join in the celebrations and give a gift to wildlife.

Open to all visitors, the 100 Year Exhibition is a dynamic experience in Auckland Zoo’s exhibition space, The Domes. It offers an incredible journey into the Zoo’s past, present and future – featuring photos, videos, and fun interactive activities for all ages.

We sent along Jacque and her family for a day out at Auckland Zoo to meet the inhabitants and check out the 100 Year Exhibition. Read her review below.

Experiencing 100 years of Auckland Zoo

Our little family (husband, sons aged 8 and 2 and myself) were lucky to be able to experience the 100 year celebration at the Auckland Zoo
dome.

We decided to make a full day out of it and arrived when the doors opened and left when the doors closed, soaking it all in! We arrived at 9.15am and found good parking (a lot of other people had the same idea). There is good parking and street parking, plus the bus stops at the tram which you could catch making it just a touch more special. We paid $8 for parking (the maximum amount you’ll get set back for this newly added feature) and proceeded into the zoo with kids bouncing with excitement.

We were immediately greeted by friendly staff guiding visitors to the correct queues. Our queuing time was less than 2 minutes, and we had a choice of 2
lines to enter. We scanned our tickets, kids were offered a map (my kids love maps so this was received with great joy), and our adventure awaited us!

Just beyond the entrance, to the left was the dome – home to the 100 years of Auckland Zoo exhibition. A friendly smile and an activity sheet awaited us upon entrance. The activity was to explore the exhibition and return with four stamps. The prize? A die-roll for a chance at some ice-cream! This certainly captured the kids’ attention. The stamps were close enough that it wasn’t too long between them, but also afforded us the opportunity to digest the information and learn some interesting facts about Auckland Zoo and its inhabitants.

Our favourite exhibits included the photos of visits over the last 100 years, drawings of children’s favourite animals and the section where people share their hopes and wishes for themselves and the Zoo in general. For the kids, some activities that they enjoyed were: drawing their favourite animal, seeing animal x-rays, a recycling quiz, a tunnel to crawl through (this was of particular interest). There were also activities for the slightly more mature – sharing goals on a goal wall or weaving a piece of yarn through an intricate web, based on who you are, where you come from and what you enjoy. My favourite part was the maps of the zoo over the years and how they had changed.

After completing the stamps we headed back to the front of the exhibition. Time for the boys to try their luck! They weren’t able to get the correct roll of the die, but the lady kindly gave them both a stamp to redeem a free ice cream. This was definitely one of the highlights of the day for them. We also noticed merchandise at the front, which enabled visitors to take a piece of this historic moment home with them.

Once out of the dome we headed to the vet rooms. The boys loved exploring the drawers and seeing how the vets help and heal the animals. They weren’t able to catch a procedure in action, but there’s always next time!

Our next stop was the café to cash in the ice creams and get Mum and Dad a yummy coffee! The cones were quite appropriately animal themed. Across from the café was the playground with the egg slide (temporarily out of order) and dragon. The boys wasted no time in exploring and having a go at the diggers. The diggers required tokens, but these were easy enough to purchase (no cash necessary).

Exploring the Zoo

Our route took us past the reclusive red panda and we got to see it in full view. The boys loved spotting ‘King Julian’ and he did not disappoint with his poses!

The tigers were a massive hit especially when the one walked through the tunnel, right in front of us! The otters were a delight.

Another new feature is the rainforest. Included is a returnable guide. An amazing, amazon ambience is set with the occasional rain shower and even down to the smell of rich soil.

The ape house was definitely worth swinging by. We got to finally see who had been calling out all morning. Apart from seeing the simiangs up close, we also got to play a few memory games and have a look at the crazy mirrors. At this point we were also given some really interesting info (and a nice joke) by a zoo volunteer.

Our next stop was the seal enclosure, just in time to see it being fed. The diet of the seal (some fish and a frozen squid) brought out some interesting conversation amongst our family.

Time to refuel

It was close to midday, so a break and meal were in order. A good eating place or two was never far away, and we decided to sit at a rock meeting place. We were surrounded by beautiful native plants and little birds hoping to share a bite. The autumn leaves falling from the trees made more some majestic scenery.

After lunch we headed to the lizards which was exciting to try see which of us could spot the lizard and spiders first!

We got to see the kiwi up close to the window which was incredible!!! It was the first time that has ever happened. A slight drawback was that some people don’t respect the sanctity of the place and were quite loud.

The path out of the kiwis led to the eels, which is always fascinating. I particularly liked the half boat on either side of the enclosure.

We spent a decent amount of time in the aviaries. It was almost like being in another world, with the lush greenery and scenic waterfall. It was exciting to see some native birds like the kea and pīwakawaka.

Once we finished with the aviaries Mr 8 was quite chuffed he was able to spot the serval under the tree! The cheetah was definitely showing off to us, posing for pictures! Mr 8 loved the information about the cheetahs.

Favourite inhabitants

The flamingos held our attention for a while, the fascination with how they balance on one leg really amazed the kids. We only were allowed to leave the flamingos because the elephant was really close, I think they were doing checks on it. But still in awe of how magical it is. They loved how it ate its food with its trunk. Another attraction was the elephant statue – always a popular photo opportunity for whānau.

The central eating area – with the rock water feature was good fun for our kids, as well as plenty of others. Even with the slightly colder weather, the young ones could not pass up an opportunity to get wet.

When we passed the lions we were lucky to have them on the top of their den and then wander off to the viewing glass where they climbed up the trees. It’s really amazing to see that each animal has enough space to suit their needs and to simulate their natural environment.

The meerkat tunnels are always a popular spot and this day was no different. Some younger (and older) kids enjoyed making their way through the tunnels to the spot where one can view the meerkats from within their territory!

A rare occurrence for us was to see the porcupine – its quills glistened in the late afternoon sun. We never realized how big these majestic beasts actually are.

Our favourite spot was the zebra and giraffe enclosure, the viewing decks are perfectly made to view over the whole area and see the giraffes up close.
One can truly appreciate the wonder and beauty of nature from up there.

There were a few volunteers and staff who had little stations set up around the zoo. We did a matching animal picture to animal facts game. Although Mr 2 was a bit too young to understand, Mr 8 really enjoyed it (and learnt one or two new facts too!).

Kids loved the play area by the South American walkway, they loved climbing and balancing.

We ended our day in the gift shop where, if we could, we would buy everything in there, such amazing mementos! We let the boys pick one item each. Mr 2 got a flamingo and Mr 8 got a tui … each one winning a special place in their hearts!

The kids definitely had an amazing day. Mr 2 even forewent his daytime nap to take in as much as possible and not miss out. This was a good educational way to get out, get some sun and tire the kids out.

Family-friendly positives

There was always someone, either a staff member or volunteer at each section, always happy to give information about the animals. I love that there were plenty of bins around, there was no excuse for litter! It was also great that they have many benches and picnic tables around to rest and sit. With having kids it is also great to have toilets quite regularly around the zoo and good baby change rooms so we did not struggle with nappy changes.

The kids asked to go again this weekend, so definitely a good day was had!!! I would recommend spending the whole day there – there is definitely something for every age!

Plan your visit to Auckland Zoo

Reviewers were provided with a family pass to Auckland Zoo for the purposes of the review. Views are those of the reviewers.

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How To Make Father’s Day A Fun Family Affair

Posted on 18/06/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

Guest post

Does Father’s Day sometimes feel like an afterthought, hidden in the shadow of the fanfare of Mother’s Day? Or perhaps it’s just another day marked with a tie-shaped card, a simple gift, and an obligatory family dinner. Have you ever stopped to think about how to make this special day more than just a routine?

If you’re tired of the same old Father’s Day routine, struggling to come up with new ways to make the day memorable for the first hero in your life, this year you’re in luck! Here’s a guide on how to bring the fun back into Father’s Day and celebrate it in style, for a joy-filled family affair that will be remembered for years.

Cook his favourite meal together

Instead of the usual gift, consider more unique and personal ideas for Father’s Day, such as preparing Dad’s favourite meal together. Cooking together as a family creates delicious food and provides a platform for bonding and creating memorable experiences.

Try your hand at that elaborate recipe he’s been wanting to try or stick to his all-time favourite comfort food. The goal here isn’t to impress him with your culinary skills but to pour out your love and gratitude in every stir and slice.

Remember to include everyone in the cooking process. Even the smallest ones can help with tasks like washing vegetables or setting the table. This communal effort will make the meal taste even better.

Organise a family games night

Nothing says fun family affair quite like a games night. Dust off those board games or set up a friendly family tournament this Father’s Day. It could be anything from video games to card games to outdoor sports. The main goal is to indulge in hearty laughter and some friendly competition.

But what’s a tournament without snacks and refreshments, right? Here’s where you can further tailor the event to Dad’s tastes. Whether he’s a fan of homemade nachos, popcorn, or a unique family recipe, ensuring his favourite snacks are on hand will make the day extra special. This could even be a fun activity to do together as a family – preparing Dad’s special snacks and drinks.

To make the day even more exceptional, consider ordering a gift like a Celebration Box. This box can be filled with his favourite beverage, Copper Kettle Chips, delicious Jack Links Beef Jerkies, and more. Not only will this assortment of goodies surprise and delight him, but it also adds an extra layer of excitement to your family tournament.

Craft a homemade gift

When it comes to gifts, sometimes the most meaningful ones are those that come from the heart. This Father’s Day, consider crafting a homemade gift. It doesn’t have to be complex or costly; it is just to convey in some small way the love and appreciation you feel for your father.

You could create a scrapbook filled with photos and mementos that tell your family’s story and the special moments you’ve shared. Or it could be a personalized mug painted by the kids or a heartfelt letter expressing your gratitude and love.

Whichever route you choose, handcrafted presents are a gift that’ll be treasured by the recipient (Dad) for their sentiment and the memories they hold.

Plan a surprise adventure

Another way to make Father’s Day a family affair is by organizing a surprise adventure. This could be anything from a trip to a nearby city he’s always wanted to visit or a camping trip to his favourite wilderness spot. Take into account his personal interests and hobbies. Is he a history buff? Plan a trip to a historical site or museum. Is he a fan of nature? A hiking trip or a day of fishing could be the perfect way to spend the day.

Remember to involve the kids in planning the adventure. They’ll revel in the thrill of keeping “mum” about the surprise for their dad. Plus, it’s an excellent method to involve them in the celebration and instil the value of showing love and appreciation.

Create a Father’s Day playlist

Music has a remarkable way of uniting people. This Father’s Day, incorporate a melodious touch to your celebrations by assembling a playlist of your dad’s favourite tracks. Whether he’s a fan of classic rock, country music, jazz, or any other genre, a thoughtfully curated playlist will unquestionably strike a chord in his heart.

And creating a playlist can be a family activity. Invite everyone to suggest songs that remind them of Dad or ones they know he relishes. You could include tracks that occupy a special place in your family’s history. As these songs serenade you throughout the day, they’ll serve as a harmonious reminder of your love and appreciation for him.

Final words

Turning Father’s Day into a fun family affair doesn’t require grand plans or expensive gifts. It’s about making the day special by celebrating your unique bond with your dad and making him feel loved and appreciated.

Whether planning a surprise adventure, cooking his favourite meal together, or organizing a family game night, the key is incorporating activities that bring the family closer together. By doing this, you’re not just creating a memorable day for your father, but you’re building lasting memories as a family as well. So, this Father’s Day, go ahead and break the routine – make it a day filled with love, laughter, and fun.

Olivia Bennett is a parenting enthusiast and family activities advocate. With a passion for fostering strong family bonds, Olivia has been curating fun and engaging experiences for parents and children alike. When she’s not brainstorming exciting family activities, Olivia enjoys exploring nature with her own family, experimenting with new recipes, and capturing precious moments through photography.

This article was written by a sponsor with editing by Kidspot NZ.

The appearance of external hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by Kidspot NZ of the website, information, products or services contained therein. All views are those of the author.

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How To Manage Your Child’s Screen Time

Posted on 05/05/202316/05/2026 by Julie Lankow

Guest post

With the increasing usage of social media and the internet, more and more children are fascinated with the possibilities of being on social media. Even though social media is not entirely bad, certain dangers are attached to it. Additionally, it is important to note that social media users may be unaware of the dangers of longer screen time.

ExpressVPN’s survey states that the average screen time for young children has been increasing in recent years, and some 4-year-olds spend over 21 minutes on social media daily. These issues should not be taken lightly, but parents can take preventive measures to help children avoid dangers while using social media.

The dangers of social media

Be it social media platforms like Instagram or YouTube, or other websites that exist on the internet, nothing is entirely safe for young children to use. Even though the internet can be equally dangerous for adults, they are usually more aware of its dangerous side than younger generations.

Younger children, on the contrary, may be unaware of these issues or incapable of handling dangerous situations on social media. However, other than the various issues that make social media problematic, it is also a fact that increased screen time can be equally problematic for children.

How to manage screen time for children

Young children face multiple dangers on social media. There have been increasing cases of cyberbullying and internet trolling and younger generations are more prone to having long-lasting impacts due to such issues. Additionally, predatory activities are also quite common on the internet, so it is advised to watch children’s internet activity.

Besides the various dangers of using social media, it is also important for parents to manage screen time for children. Parents should have a healthy discussion with young children about the issues they can face if they are constantly on their phones. Other than sight issues, children can also feel isolated and may become addicted to spending time on social media. That is why it is better to teach them how to minimise screen time and show them alternate ways to spend their time.

The use of parental controls on all devices and sites that are within the house will allow parents to not only monitor the screen time of their children but will also help them protect their kids from any inappropriate content. An interesting way to reduce screen time for children could be by introducing screen-free zones within the house. Parents should also keep in mind that they will have to make a collective effort to reduce their own screen time so that their children can use that as an example.

It can be easier to reduce screen time for kids if things are discussed with them openly. It will benefit parents if they can freely discuss why children need to reduce screen time and how they should manage their internet activities.

Conclusion

Parents can try to minimise screen time for their children in many ways. The internet is useful for children and they may not be completely restricted from using it. However, parents must remember that unrestrained internet access can lead to severe problems for children. Additionally, too much screen time can have many negative effects, so it is beneficial to monitor the screen time for children.

This article was submitted by Express Technologies Ltd, Tortola, with editing by Kidspot NZ.

The appearance of external hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by Kidspot NZ of the website, information, products or services contained therein. All views are those of the author.

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