Things to do in Auckland: 5 Best Attractions For Kids and Families
Auckland, fondly known as the “City of Sails,” is a treasure trove of exciting attractions that promise to captivate the imagination of both kids and adults. Whether you’re a local family looking for a fun day out or visitors eager to explore the city’s best, Auckland offers something for everyone.
With the Auckland Explorer Bus, your journey becomes as seamless as it is enjoyable. Designed with convenience in mind, this hop-on, hop-off service makes it easy to explore Auckland’s top sights at your own pace. And when traveling with children, the adventure becomes even more magical!
Here are the top five family-friendly activities you can enjoy with kids using the Auckland Explorer Bus. Each destination guarantees fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments for the whole family.
One : Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium
One of the most well-loved family attractions in Tāmaki Makaurau is SEALIFE Kelly Tarlton’s, located right on the waterfront of Tamaki Drive. No matter what age your child is, Kelly Tarlton’s is sure to be a hit.
Visit the famed aquarium, which has a ride-through tunnel, and the Antarctic centre to see incredible creatures (with the largest colony of sub-antarctic penguins located in the Southern Hemisphere).
Kelly Tarlton’s also contains a number of hands-on exhibits that kids can enjoy, including The Rockpool where youngsters can see and touch starfish and learn about the incredible critters that live on our shores.
Two : Auckland War Memorial Museum
There is so much for younger family members to see and enjoy at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Kids will love the Weird & Wonderful exhibition, filled with a vast selection of hands-on artefacts to experience, and the Volcanoes natural history exhibition, which includes a trembling, quaking eruption simulation.
Plus from now until the end of 2023, visitors will be able to come close to one of the rarest, most complete T. rex skeletons named Peter the T. rex, who bones are a beautiful black colour, caused by mineral deposits, makes Peter extremely rare.
Three : Auckland Sky Tower
Visiting the Sky Tower is a must for families as there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Take the elevator up 60 floors and test your nerve by standing on the Sky Deck’s glass floors, looking over Tāmaki Makaurau from 186 metres in the air.
Also located in the Sky City complex is The All Blacks Experience, which is a much visit for every young person who envisions donning the black jersey one day.
Wētā Workshop Unleashed is also located nearby which provides thrills and chills as you tour through the fully realised film sets of horror, fantasy and sci-fi features.
Four : Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari
Set sail across the Waitemata in search of marine creatures with Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari. Children and adults alike will be amazed by the incredible encounters with the diverse range of wildlife in the abundant ecosystem that is the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
Seeing dolphins and whales right in front of your eyes is an unforgettable experience and one that is simply magic to experience with your kids.
Plus the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari crew conduct interactive biological studies during the journey and often invite young travellers to join in the citizen science activities.
Five : Westfield Newmarket
Inside Westfield Newmarket lives Archie Brothers Cirque Electrique where you can get your arcade fix plus enjoy bumper cars, ten-pin bowling, plus some of the greatest ”freakshakes” in Auckland.
Westfield Newmarket is also the home of New Zealand’s first LEGO® Certified Store. LEGO fans will love the Pick A Brick Wall, play tables, Build-a-Minifigure station, and the unique LEGO mosaic inspired by local Auckland landmarks.
Along with a movie theatre, multiple dining options and hundreds of stores to enjoy, kids of all ages will find something to love in Newmarket.