Things To Do

5 Of The Best Family-Friendly Experiences To Seek Out In Auckland

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If you’ve got kids in tow, Wynyard Quarter has a multitude of experiences the whole family can enjoy. 

To help create your itinerary, we’ve teamed up with the legends at Auckland Council and Eke Panuku. This dynamic duo have been hard at work developing spaces for Aucklanders and visitors alike to enjoy. Wynyard Quarter can thrive now and well into the future thanks to this unstoppable pair. Whether it’s scoping out the hottest playgrounds, getting cultured with diverse artworks, or enjoying a leisurely weekend picnic, there's so much to discover in this buzzy area.

Check Out Everything New At Silo Park

Auckland’s much-loved Silo Park just keeps getting better and better. The hub has been extended with even more space to play, explore, and catch up with friends. There’s now a one-of-a-kind playground that uses repurposed pipes from the old Wynyard tank farm. The pipes have been painted bright yellow and transformed into an interactive playground, featuring balancing beams, talking tubes, and swings. Silo Park’s extension also includes a waka-inspired pavilion, Te Nukuao, that provides shelter from the elements and a place to enjoy a packed lunch. Over the year, Silo Park plays host to a fun-filled event calendar with films, installations, activities, and general good times. Stay up to date with what’s on here.

Embark On An Art Trail

Kids and adults alike will enjoy setting off on Wynyard Quarter’s public art trail. Sitting pretty alongside the glistening Waitematā, the artworks span diverse disciplines. From sculptures and murals to traditional Māori weaving and carving, there are currently 16 pieces to check out. Kids will be especially charmed by the Sounds of Sea silver funnels along North Wharf. The stainless steel tubes allow people to climb inside, play, and speak into. Download a map of the artworks here and set off on a visual treasure hunt.

Roll Out Your Picnic Blanket

Pass the day by at one of Wynyard Quarter’s green spaces. Kick back on a picnic blanket while the kids burn off some of that seemingly endless energy at Amey Daldy Park. The rolling landscape provides the perfect terrain for kicking a ball around and nearby cafes serve that all-important caffeine fix. While you’re at it, check out the green spaces along Daldy Street. There’s a twisting slide that plunges from a seven-metre silo-inspired tower. You’ll find more inner-city parks to explore here.

Cool Off With Water Play

If your young one loves water play, read on. On Daldy Street, you’ll find a series of water play equipment. Between Halsey and Daldy Street, check out Tīramarama Way, delivered by Eke Panuku. The laneway is home to foot-powered fountains and purposeful puddles designed to rise and fall with the tides. The space provides an unexpected opportunity for water play. For those who prefer not to get wet, there’s the new kōrimurimu artwork at Te Wānanga. The emerald-green webbing is a modern take on raranga (weaving) that allows passersby to lie down and sense the sparkle of the ocean below.

Get On Yer Bike

Embrace pedal power when exploring Auckland’s waterfront. From Downtown, through Wynyard Quarter, and all the way to Westhaven, there’s a family-friendly cycleway to guide your way. The best part? The views over Te Waitematā will take your breath away—and provides the perfect backdrop for a family photo. Be sure to make a pit stop at one of the cafes or eateries along the way for a well-deserved coffee or fluffy. Start or end your adventure at Queens Wharf and, if your bike needs repairs, take it along to the EcoMatters Bike Hub where friendly volunteers can help work alongside you to fix up any minor repairs.

Exciting changes are continuing in Auckland’s city centre. The midtown regeneration will provide even more fun-filled places for families to explore right at the heart of Auckland’s city centre. Find out about the upcoming play spaces and bustling streets coming to midtown.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Auckland Council and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Images: Sourced from @mysilopark Instagram.

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