It’s time to plan your family holiday fun
The winter school holidays are the perfect time to make some wonderful family memories. Whether you’re out and about exploring the motu, or planning a staycation, we have you covered!
Check out our great range of holiday activities and destinations – there’s something for every family.
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Check out what’s on near you
There’s so much fun to be had these holidays – check out what’s on offer around the motu. (See company websites for T&Cs)
The Gruffalo returns to Aotearoa!
Location: Bruce Mason Centre, #1 The Promenade, Takapuna Beach, Auckland
When: 9th to 13th July 2025
What: These July school holidays, join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep dark wood in this whimsical, musical show perfect for kids aged 3+ and their grown-ups. The Gruffalo returns to Bruce Mason Centre for a limited season.
Prepare to take flight at the Sky Tower!
Location: Sky Tower, Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD
When: 28th June to 13th July 2025
What: Become a certified Dragon Trainer 
Let your little Vikings soar into the Sky Tower for school holiday fun inspired by How to Train Your Dragon, the live-action movie. Explore the Sky Tower and complete the Dragon Trainer Quests to achieve a trainer certificate. And don’t miss the How to Train Your Dragon audio book station at Ground Floor.
Enjoy FREE PARKING at SkyCity with a Sky Tower ticket during the school holidays.
Greytown Festival of Christmas
Location: Greytown Village, Wairarapa (various venues and shops)
When: From 27 June to 26 July 2025
Cost: Mixture of free and ticketed events
What: You can never get enough Christmas right?! Every winter Greytown becomes a stunning celebration of mid-winter Christmas. This year’s Christmas Carnival theme will inspire you to gather the family and enjoy festive food, workshops, live entertainment, markets and stunning light displays. Tick the Big Switch Opening Night, Snowfall on Main Street, the Vintage Carousel, Illumination Night Walk and so much more off your wishlist.
BOUNCE is where energy belongs – and these winter holidays, the kids do too!
Location: Three venues across Auckland: Takanini, Avondale & North Shore
When: Check venue information for school holiday times
What: From flips to freestyle, dodgeball to wall runs, BOUNCE is the ultimate indoor playground for free spirits of all ages. With action-packed options like the 2hr SuperPass or the Awesome 4some pass, there’s something for every kind of mover. BOUNCE sessions are available every day during the holidays. Book ahead online to guarantee a spot to give the kids an epic adventure while staying warm indoors.
Sessions fill up fast – so get in quick and book now!
Wellington Ice Rink
Location: Queens Wharf, Wellington
When: 14 June to 13 July, 10am to 10pm
Cost: From $15 to $25pp, Family pass $69
What: Paradice EVENTS is bringing the magic of winter to the heart of Wellington with the return of its iconic pop-up ice rink! Whether you’re a skilled skater or trying ice skating for the first time, everyone’s invited to join the fun. Grab your whānau for the coolest event of the season.
Soaring school holiday fun at MOTAT
Location: 805 Great North Road & 98 Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland 1022
When: 28th June to 13th July 2025
What: Stacking, sorting, constructing and exploring the skies!
Would you board a plane with no pilot? These school holidays, explore the future of autonomous tech at MOTAT’s new exhibition Autopilot. Discover drones, self-sufficient technology, and a pilotless aircraft – then take an immersive VR flight over Tāmaki Makaurau. Also have some fun with Over and Under – a hands-on experience where kids can build, play and explore bridges, tunnels, and animal burrows.
Included in general admission.
Luma Enchanted at Kiwi Park
Location: 51 Brecon Street, Queenstown
When: Until 31 August 2025, 5.30pm to 9.30pm
Cost: From $39 to $79pp
What: This winter, Luma is transforming Queenstown’s Kiwi Park into a luminous wonderland as it hosts LUMA Enchanted – an immersive nighttime journey blending art, nature, and storytelling. Wander through illuminated walkways and encounter captivating light installations that highlight the beauty and diversity of New Zealand’s native wildlife. The Mementos food truck is on site and after-dark kiwi encounters are available.
What’s on screen these holidays
What’s on the small home screen, and the big movie screen? Whether you are heading out to the local movie theatre, or relaxing at home, there are some great new movies out.
Streaming now on Disney+ and other services
In cinemas 26 June 2025
In cinemas 30 June 2025
In cinemas from 4 July 2025
More school holiday fun
Crafts, baking, games, and more …
Make the most of the holidays to enjoy some fun activities.
Support local
Spend these school holidays supporting Kiwi businesses
Local businesses need our support, so these school holidays we’re encouraging our families and each other to get out and back Kiwis. See some of our favourite family activities and school holiday programmes below, plus search for options in your area in our wider directory.
