Snowplanet - Year-Round Indoor Snow Playground
Just 30 minutes north of Auckland, Snowplanet offers the unique thrill of snow sports all year round. As the country’s only indoor snow resort, it’s the perfect place for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and skill levels—from first-timers to seasoned pros. The temperature-controlled slope ensures great conditions every day, while qualified instructors are available to help you build confidence on the snow. For those not hitting the slopes, the magical Winter Wonderland is ideal for younger visitors, with tubing, tobogganing, and plenty of space to play in real snow. After a session in the snow, relax by the fireplace at the on-site restaurant and enjoy a warm meal in alpine-inspired surroundings. Snowplanet is a year-round destination for family fun, learning, and adventure.
Good to know: All snow gear can be hired onsite, including jackets and gloves.
Family tip: Winter Wonderland is perfect for kids who aren’t ready for skiing or snowboarding. Allow: 2-3 hours
Sculptureum – A Creative Escape Like No Other
Just an hour from Auckland, Sculptureum offers a full-day escape into a world where art, nature, food and wine come together. Wander through three sculpture gardens and six beautifully curated galleries showcasing an extraordinary mix of art—from modern abstracts to recycled masterpieces and the breathtaking glass chandelier by Dale Chihuly. Along the way, discover surprising sculptures, live animals, and inspiring quotes on a 1.4km garden trail. After exploring, relax with a wine tasting at the on-site vineyard or enjoy a seasonal lunch at Rothko Restaurant. Whether you're an art lover, nature enthusiast, or simply after a unique day out, Sculptureum is a must-visit destination for all.
Good to know: Tickets include access to both galleries and gardens.
Allow: 3-4 hours
Clip 'N Climb – Family Fun and Adventure
Looking for an exciting and active outing for the whole family? Clip 'N Climb offers a vibrant indoor climbing centre packed with over 34 colourful challenges suitable for all ages and skill levels. Using the latest auto-belay technology, safety is a top priority, so everyone can climb with confidence. More than just fun, climbing here builds important life skills like problem-solving, confidence, and perseverance. With a welcoming staff and lively atmosphere, Clip 'N Climb is the perfect place to burn energy, challenge yourself, and create lasting family memories.
Good to know: Grip shoes are supplied or bring your own sneakers.
Allow: 1-1.5 hours
Goat Island - Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Set off on a stunning 45-minute cruise around Goat Island, New Zealand’s first marine reserve, aboard the 49-seat “Aquador” glass-bottom boat. Stay dry while marveling at vibrant reefs, colourful fish, and coastal birds beneath you. We provide expert commentary throughout the trip which shares the reserve’s rich history and conservation efforts. You’ll enjoy sightings of diverse marine life, with occasional visits from dolphins, orcas, whales, and sharks as they pass through. This tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, making it a memorable outing for everyone.
Good to know: Tours operate in most weather conditions
Family tip: Bring cameras for underwater viewing moments.
Allow: 45-60 mins
Megazone Silverdale – Family Fun on Auckland’s Hibiscus Coast
Located in Silverdale, Megazone offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including thrilling laser tag battles, a large arcade, immersive VR experiences, and a full-sized 737 flight simulator. It’s a perfect spot for family outings, birthday parties, or group events. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, Megazone promises action-packed fun rain or shine. Check their website for bookings and details.
Family tip: Arcades suit younger kids while teens love laser tag and VR.
Allow: 1.5-3 hours
Chelsea Sugar Factory Tours & Sugar Cafe
Discover the fascinating world of sugar at Chelsea Bay with two fully guided tours: a 60-minute Chelsea Factory Tour and a 25-minute Mini Train Tour around the site. Both offer unique insights into the factory’s history and operations. Group bookings are available to tailor your experience and make it memorable. After your tour, relax at Sugar Café overlooking the Waitematā Harbour. Enjoy an all-day dining menu alongside a tempting cabinet of sweet treats, all freshly made by in-house patisserie chefs. The café also offers Devonshire tea and hosts events.
Good to know: Open seven days a week—bookings are recommended on weekdays, while weekends are walk-in only.
Allow: 1-1.5 hours
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum & Cafe
Step into New Zealand’s naval history at Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, a family-friendly destination in Devonport. Discover fascinating stories, from the luckiest ship to HMNZS Leander’s survival after a WWII torpedo strike. Kids can try on naval uniforms, send Morse code messages, and explore hands-on displays. After exploring the museum, unwind at the Torpedo Bay Café. Enjoy lunch, coffee or sweet treats while taking in the stunning harbour views. With a navy-themed playground, children’s menu and highchairs, it’s a perfect spot for families to relax by the sea.
Good to know: Entry is by donation.
Allow: 1-2 hours
The Vic Cinema – Devonport's Historic Theatre
Step into a piece of history at The Vic Cinema, Auckland’s longest-serving picture theatre, located in the heart of Devonport. Since 1912, this iconic venue has delighted audiences with silent films, blockbusters, live shows, and community events. Today, it continues to charm visitors with its art deco elegance and warm, local atmosphere. Catch the latest films, enjoy live music and performances, or host a private event in one of their beautifully restored cinema spaces. With locally made gelato, classic choc tops, wine, beer and snacks on offer, The Vic is more than a cinema—it’s a vibrant cultural hub.
Good to know: Licensed bar available for evening sessions.
Allow: 2-3 hours.
The PumpHouse Theatre – Live Performance by the Lake
Located in picturesque Killarney Park on the edge of Lake Pupuke, The PumpHouse Theatre is a much-loved Takapuna gem. This historic venue hosts a vibrant calendar of live theatre, talks, comedy, and performances, making it a perfect destination for a cultural night out. Steeped in local history, the theatre is also known for its resident spirit, Peg Escott—a key figure in saving the building and bringing it to life as a performance space. Her passion lives on in the theatre's welcoming atmosphere and the Peg Escott Green Room, said to hold her lingering presence.
Good to know: Seating varies by performance.
Allow: 2-3 hours.
Gloputt Mini Golf – Glow-in-the-Dark Family Fun
Step into a technicolour adventure at Gloputt Mini Golf in Takapuna. This vibrant indoor mini golf course features 16 glow-in-the-dark holes with creative, themed designs perfect for families, friends, or a fun date night. No need to worry about the weather—Gloputt’s climate-controlled setting means you can play rain or shine. Whether you’re a local or visiting Auckland, it’s a playful and unforgettable way to enjoy some friendly competition.
Family tip: Great option for all ages and abilities.
Allow: 45-75 mins
Safety tip: Watch footing in low-light areas.
Auckland Adventure Park — Big Fun for Little Adventurers
From adrenaline-pumping adventure rides to the magical Cosmic Kids Play Zone, Auckland Adventure Park offers fun for the whole family. Designed for kids aged 0–12, the Cosmic Zone features a pirate ship, rocket ride, carousel pit, slides, and an obstacle course—providing hours of safe, energetic play. Grown-ups can relax and refuel at the on-site café while the little ones let loose. There are also individual rides like the Zipline, Luge, and Shooting Star that may be suitable for older children and adults, with minimum height and maximum weight restrictions in place for safety.
Good to know: Height and weight limits apply for rides.
Allow: 2-4 hours.
Tactical Laser Tag – Takapuna’s Ultimate 360° Battleground
Get ready for a next-level laser tag experience at Takapuna’s only 360° tactical arena. Whether you're battling it out in team deathmatch, playing sniper mode, or going free-for-all, every game is tailored to your group and led by a dedicated referee. Using cutting-edge Tippmann guns (also used in military training) and lightweight Heroblast gloves for younger players, this immersive setup ditches plastic vests and sci-fi sounds for real-feel, adrenaline-fuelled action—perfect for parties, team events, or all-out family fun.
Family tip: Ask for beginner-friendly modes for younger players.
Allow: 1-1.5 hours
BOUNCE North Shore - Home of NZ’s only safety certified trampoline park
Bounce is an adrenaline-fueled indoor playground packed with interconnected trampolines, padded walls, airbags, climbing walls and a high ropes course, all designed to inspire freestyle movement and fun. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned jumper, it’s a great spot to learn new tricks, burn off energy, and enjoy an action-packed experience. Little ones aren’t left out either—with a dedicated miniBOUNCE zone just for under 5s, even the smallest adventurers can bounce, explore and play safely.In addition to freestyle jumping, Bounce offers action zones like Dodgeball and the Wall Climb, where guests can challenge friends or test their own limits. Sessions are hosted and supervised by trained staff to ensure safety and help build confidence. Grip socks are required and available on site. Whether you're there to flip, climb, or simply have fun with family and friends, Bounce delivers active entertainment for all ages.
Good to know: Grip socks required (available onsite).
Allow: 1-2 hours
Arena Entertainment - Concise, fun, and inviting
Arena is a multi-attraction indoor venue offering a diverse mix of family-friendly activities all under one roof. From ten-pin bowling and a classic arcade to a vibrant indoor playground suspended above the main floor, there’s something here for every age and energy level. Competitive types will love the golf and car racing simulators, while the ever-popular Inflatable World provides hours of bouncy fun for younger kids, especially on weekends and during school holidays.The centre also features one of Auckland’s only indoor Pickleball courts and a dynamic laser tag arena with tailored game modes and real-feel equipment. It’s an ideal destination for rainy day adventures, birthday parties, or simply blowing off steam with friends. With food and drink available onsite and a welcoming vibe, Arena is your go-to for easy, all-day entertainment on the North Shore.
Good to know: Food and drinks available onsite.
Allow: 2-4 hours
