Weekend in Auckland
This budget-friendly family weekend in Auckland focuses on a fantastic mix of free outdoor fun and engaging ticketed experiences tailored for children aged 3-12. We've balanced high-energy attractions with relaxing natural escapes, ensuring ample playtime, delicious food options, and opportunities for family bonding. Remember to check individual attraction websites closer to the date for any last-minute schedule changes, especially for specific event timings.
Friday Evening - Nature & Play Discovery
Friday, October 3Botanic Garden Discovery
Start your weekend with a refreshing visit to the Auckland Botanic Gardens.
Kids can explore the whimsical Potter Children's Garden, designed with fun areas like a desert, rainforest, and a mythical maze. Pick up free self-guided activity sheets from the visitor centre to turn your stroll into a scavenger hunt, engaging young explorers with nature through play and learning.
Perfect for energetic kids to run and explore after school. The Potter Children's Garden is very interactive and engaging for ages 3-12. Wheelchair accessible toilets are available throughout, including near the Potter Children's Garden and a family room with a changing table in the Huakaiwaka visitor centre. Allow 1.5 - 2 hours for exploring. Drinking fountains are available.
Free parking is available in two large car parks inside the main entrance. Public transport options are available via bus routes, check Auckland Transport for the best route to Hill Road.
Picnic Dinner & Playground
After exploring the gardens, enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly picnic dinner at a nearby park.
Western Springs Lakeside Park, with its fantastic ecology-themed playground and open green spaces, is an excellent choice. Let the kids burn off any remaining energy before heading home for an early night.
The ecology-themed playground is a huge hit with kids of all ages, featuring slides, swings, and climbing nets. It's fully accessible with pathways and equipment for varying abilities. The park has plenty of open grassy areas for picnics, picnic tables, and public toilets. Ideal for winding down the day with fresh air.
Ample free parking is available along Great North Road and Motions Road. Public transport via bus routes connects the area to central Auckland. The park is easily accessible with strollers.
Saturday - Wild Wonders & Market Delights
Saturday, October 4Auckland Zoo Adventure
Spend your morning immersing yourselves in the incredible world of wildlife at Auckland Zoo, New Zealand's largest zoo.
Home to over 135 different native and exotic animal species, the zoo offers engaging habitats and extraordinary visitor experiences. Don't miss the African Safari Track, the Living Realm – Te Wao Nui, and the South America Rainforest Track where monkeys might swing right overhead!
Auckland Zoo is fantastic for kids aged 3-12, with plenty of animals, interactive experiences, and a playground. Allow 3-4 hours. Facilities include food outlets, gift shop, and accessible toilets. Remember to book your tickets in advance for subsidised Auckland resident prices, especially for peak days like weekends. Children under four are free.
Auckland Zoo has two large car parks with free off-street parking. Accessible parking is available. It's easily accessible by car via the North Western motorway. Public bus stops are nearby on Great North Road.
Parnell Market Lunch
After a busy morning at the zoo, head over to the vibrant Parnell Farmers' Market for a delicious and diverse lunch.
This authentic market offers a wide variety of fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and prepared meals like pizza, pies, and Indian food from various vendors. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps some live music.
The market is a great spot for families to grab a bite with options for all tastes. Kids will enjoy browsing the stalls and the general buzz. Seating can be limited, so be prepared for a stand-up meal or find a spot on a nearby bench. Public toilets are usually available within the Parnell Community Centre.
Free parking is available for market customers in the Foundation Precinct car park (access from George St entrance, 30-minute max). It's also accessible by public bus.
Auckland Museum Exploration
Explore the Auckland War Memorial Museum, a treasure trove of New Zealand's natural and cultural history.
Head directly to the kid-centric spaces like the 'Weird and Wonderful' gallery, 'The Imaginarium,' and 'Stories of Auckland,' which offer engaging and interactive experiences perfectly suited for curious young minds. These spaces remain open and are free for Aucklanders.
Ideal for a more relaxed afternoon, offering educational fun. The kid-focused areas are interactive and will keep children aged 3-12 entertained. The museum has excellent family facilities, including baby changing rooms and stroller access. Allow 1.5 - 2 hours.
Paid parking is available on-site. The Museum is also accessible via several bus routes. Consider walking from Parnell Market (approx. 15-20 min walk through the Domain) if weather permits.
Family Pasta Dinner
Enjoy a comforting and kid-friendly early dinner at an Italian restaurant.
Many Italian eateries in Auckland offer excellent family deals and pasta dishes that are universally loved by children. Look for a restaurant in a vibrant neighborhood like Parnell or Newmarket for a pleasant evening atmosphere.
Italian restaurants are generally very welcoming to families and offer kids' menus or smaller portions. Great for a hearty meal after a day of exploration. Check for early bird specials or family platters. High chairs and accessible restrooms are usually available.
Parking is available in Parnell (metered street parking or local car parks). Public transport by bus is convenient. The restaurant is within walking distance of the Auckland Museum if you want to extend your walk.
Sunday - Interactive Learning & Play
Sunday, October 5Catalina Bay Market
Spend a relaxed Sunday morning at the Catalina Bay Farmers Market.
This artisan market offers a wide selection of fresh local farm produce, artisan goods, coffee, and delicious ready-to-eat food options from various vendors. Enjoy the unique setting by the water with live music, and take a stroll along the coastal walkway nearby after grabbing some treats.
Great for families, with ample undercover space and a vibrant atmosphere. Kids will enjoy the variety of food, the live music, and the chance to walk by the water. Try the famous Portuguese tarts! The market is open rain or shine. Toilets are available on-site.
Ample parking is available, but it can get crowded, so arriving a bit earlier is advisable. Consider taking a ferry from downtown Auckland to Hobsonville Point for a scenic journey, which is a fun experience for kids.
MOTAT Fun & Trams
Head to MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) for an afternoon of interactive discovery.
Explore the Te Puawānanga Science and Technology Centre, with dedicated play spaces for under 5s and interactive science exhibits for ages 5-12. Don't miss the exciting Aviation Hall and the iconic vintage tram ride that connects MOTAT's two sites, a definite highlight for kids!
MOTAT is highly engaging for children of all ages with its hands-on exhibits. The tram ride is included in the admission and provides a fun way to travel between sites. Plan for at least 2-3 hours. Accessible facilities, including restrooms and changing tables, are available. Food and drink options are also on-site.
Located just 10 minutes from Auckland CBD with free on-site parking. The heritage tram service linking the two sites is free with admission. Close to Auckland Zoo, so accessible via similar public transport routes.
Heritage Play Day
Wrap up your weekend with a free 'Back in the Day Play' event, part of Auckland Council's 'Celebrate Play' month (Sept 29 - Oct 31, 2025) and the final day of the Auckland Heritage Festival (Sept 20 - Oct 5, 2025).
This event focuses on old-fashioned schoolyard games and encourages simple, imaginative play. Check the OurAuckland website for the specific venue for Oct 5th, but it's likely in a local park or community space.
This activity is a fantastic way for kids to engage in classic games and simple play, promoting imagination and active fun. Suitable for all ages and a great wind-down before the school week. Facilities will vary by location, but public parks usually have toilets and open spaces.
Transport will depend on the specific location of the 'Back in the Day Play' event. Auckland Council events are usually well-serviced by public transport, and many parks offer free parking.
This weekend itinerary for Auckland can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.