Oh boy it's that time of the year again.
Yep, the school holidays are here and while parents nationwide are breathing a collective sigh of relief that no lunch boxes need to be filled, or uniforms washed for a fortnight there is now the dilemma of how keep your children entertained. Notoriously the wettest holidays of the year, the thought of occupying your kids can leave the best of us feeling more than a little daunted. The expectations of children is generally pretty high and with cabin fever imminent on these wintery days, keeping them entertained can be just as expensive as an overseas holiday.
Having survived a multitude of holidays so far, here are a few ideas to entertain your children as well as hopefully not break the bank.
Shopping Malls - Although busy over the holidays, malls are pretty good for providing free entertainment. Most malls tend to offer free kids shows as well as a wide range of activities from arts and crafts to lego parties, and hey let's not forget a great way for Mum or Dad to grab a coffee while the kids are occupied. Check out Shore City or Westfield.
Catch a show or movie - The Bruce Mason Centre always has something for the kids at holiday time. Currently on are Margaret Mahy's The Man Whose Mother was a Pirate and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Check out Bruce Mason Centre for ticket prices and times. The latest kid's movies are usually released in time for the holidays too. Keep an eye out on the Event and Hoyts websites.
Be Active- Venues like Xtreme Entertainment in Botany and Wairau Park provide plenty of ways to burn off energy. The best thing about a venue like this is that there is something for a diverse range of age groups. Keep an eye out to see what specials are offered in holiday time (often they tend to have specials before midday).
Pools and Leisure Centres - Free pools for 16 years and under was truly one of the best things that the Auckland City Council implemented. Visit Auckland Council to see what your local pool and leisure centre offers. There are even concessions for adults and caregivers. It's a great way to tire out even the most energetic child.
Catch a ferry to Devonport - Catch a Fullers Ferry from Auckland to Devonport during the school holidays and one child travels free with every adult/senior purchasing a full return fare. Devonport is a great place for kids with the WWII tunnels at North Head to explore, grassy banks to slide down and many cafes to stop at along the way once you have visited the many playgrounds on offer.
Cra -Z- Loom Demo Day - Toyco St Lukes. See what all the fuss is about with the world's #1rated toy. Best of all admission is free. These colourful bands are all the rage and provide hours of quiet time at home. The bands are really cost effective with many places where they can be purchased.
Hopefully one of these ideas may prove a possibility for you and the kids over the break. If not then take note, as we still have about 20 or so school holiday days left in 2014. Sure makes the idea of a holiday to a warmer climate all the more appealing.