School holidays

Looking for something to do with the kids during the winter school holidays? No sweat!

We’ve rounded up a fantastic lineup of events, activities, and performances that’ll keep your whānau fun-busy all season long. From sculpting fire-breathing dragons and printmaking to performances like Seussical and Peppa Pig, there’s something magical for every young adventurer. These family-friendly experiences are right in the heart of the city centre—so you don’t have to go far to make unforgettable memories.

Seussical | 27 - 29 JUN | $35 - $65

Get ready for a wild ride through the world of Dr. Seuss! All your favourite Dr. Seuss characters leap from the page to the stage in Seussical, brought to life by the talented cast of the National Youth Theatre. Join Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and friends from the Jungle of Nool and Circus McGurkus as they take you on a whimsical journey through a fantastical and wacky world. Perfect for the whole family—don’t miss this magical musical adventure!

Image sourced

Finalist performances for NZ Children’s Music Awards | 29 JUN | $12 - $45

"Sounds Fun for Kids" is back at The Tuning Fork, bringing the magic of the NZ Children’s Music Awards to life on stage! Expect catchy tunes, colourful performances, and loads of joy as Aotearoa’s best kids’ music creators take the spotlight. This fun-filled afternoon features live performances by Loopy Tunes Preschool Music, Spellodies, the stars of Hana and more. It’s the perfect way to celebrate creativity, culture, and community—through music that makes you want to sing, dance, and smile!

Image via @aotearoachildrensmusicawards

Storytime & Printmaking For Kids | 5 & 12 JUL | FREE

Check out this family-friendly storytime and printmaking workshop inspired by the exhibition Tala o le tau! The event begins with a storytelling session for tamariki in the gallery, followed by an ocean-themed printmaking activity where kids can create their own artwork to take home. It’s the perfect chance for young creatives to dive into art and make some colourful holiday memories!

Image via eventbrite.co.nz

Wētā Workshop: Dragon Sculpting | JUN - JUL | $29 - $45

In this fiery 60-minute workshop, young creators will bring their own mythical creatures to life—learning the basics of character building as they sculpt dragons with unique personalities, magical powers, and wild imaginations. Want to take the adventure even further? Start with a tour of Wētā Workshop Unleashed, then dive into the dragon sculpting workshop for the ultimate creative combo!

Image supplied

July School Holidays - Medal Makers | 30 JUN - 4 JUL & 7 - 11 JUL | $5

Perfect for tamariki aged 5 to 10, this hands-on programme invites young explorers to discover inspiring tales of courage, innovation, and pride from Aotearoa’s rich maritime history. After diving into these incredible stories, kids will design and craft their very own hero medal using colourful, recycled materials—celebrating what makes them feel brave and bold.

Image via maritimemuseum.co.nz