Discover plenty of family fun in the Lower North Island! Whether you’re in Tairāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa, Manawatū-Whanganui, or Wellington, there is plenty of fun to be found!
What’s on in your community?
Verb Readers & Writers Festival 2026
Celebrating literature, the Verb Readers & Writers Festival returns to Wellington! Acclaimed authors, musicians, journalists, and more will lead audiences through a series of fun-fuelled, entertaining, thought-provoking events. Younger audiences can enjoy free readings, games, and hands-on activities. Whether you enjoy sitting and listening or getting involved, the festival will host over 26 events, featuring over 50 artists. This festival has something for everyone!
Bluey’s Big Play is coming back to Aotearoa with a national tour in 2027!
When: Thursday 15 & Friday 16 April 2027 at 10 am.
Where: TSB Arena, Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington.
Wackadoo! Bluey, Bingo, Mum, and Dad are returning to Aotearoa New Zealand for a nationwide tour in April 2027!
When Dad feels like a little bit of afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag. With an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and music by Bluey composer Joff Bush. This is Bluey, For Real Life.
Wellington bucket list
- For the ultimate family photo (and gorgeous views), head to Mount Victoria for a beautiful panoramic view of the city and an equally dazzling photo opportunity.
- For something a bit more educational, head to the National Library of New Zealand and find the Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the Women’s Suffragette Petition, and the He Whakaputanga – Declaration of Independence.
- Find 10 different coloured flowers or plants at the Wellington Botanic Gardens.
- Make your way up the hills of Kelburn in an iconic and timeless red cable car!
- For another fun photo opportunity, head to the Wellington waterfront and make yourself the I in the Well(I)ngton sign.
Hawke’s Bay bucket list
- Travel back in time with a visit to the Central Hawke’s Bay Museum!
- Head to Cape Kidnappers and have a look at one of the most majestic gannet colonies in the world.
- For a spot of shopping, check out the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market! Not only is it family-friendly, but your furry friends are welcome too.
- Enjoy an outdoor adventure with the whole family and check out the Hastings Urban Heritage Trail – don’t forget to get your photo at each landmark point!
- Got a sweet tooth? Enjoy free honey-tasting, and self guided yours at the Arataki Honey Visitor Centre and learn about the lives of bees!
22 October, 2026
