FREE and Low-Cost Adventures for Grandparents and Grandchildren in Auckland
- By: Auckland for Kids
- Last Updated:
- Topics: Family Day Out, Family Fun
Planning a fun day out with your grandchildren doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you are a grandparent with toddlers at home during the week or looking after grandchildren in the school holidays, we’ve put together a list of the best FREE and low-cost adventures around Auckland. Most of these ideas are best for under-fives and their grandparents, and they are all simple to get to and enjoy.
1. Visit your local library
Auckland’s libraries are warm, welcoming, and full of activities for young children. Many libraries have FREE Wriggle and Rhyme or Storytime sessions during the week, or you can just pop in to read books together or play with puzzles and toys. No booking needed.
2. Watch the boats at Westhaven Marina or Half Moon Bay
Grab a hot drink and enjoy some boat-watching with your grandchild. Both marinas have flat, stroller-accessible paths and lots to see, including ducks and fish. This outing is simple, slow-paced, and FREE.
3. Explore a new playground
Pack a snack and head out to a new playground. Some of our favourites for little ones include Potters Park in Balmoral, Windsor Reserve in Devonport, or the rocket-themed playground at Western Springs. The outing is FREE, and there’s plenty of space for both fun and rest.
4. Go for a Bush Walk
Take a gentle nature walk through one of Auckland’s regional parks or bush reserves. Walks like the Kowhai Glen Track at Long Bay or the Kauri Loop Track in One Tree Hill Domain are short, safe, and pram-friendly. Spot birds, collect leaves, and enjoy the fresh air, all for FREE.
5. Feed the ducks at Western Springs
Bring some bird seed (not bread) and head to Western Springs. It is always a hit with young children, and there are shady paths, turtles to spot, and an accessible playground nearby. Entry is FREE, and parking is usually easy on weekdays.
6. Visit Auckland Botanic Gardens
Take a peaceful walk around the gardens, visit the children’s garden, or enjoy a slow picnic together. The wide paths and natural beauty make this a calming outing for all ages. Entry is always FREE, and it’s especially lovely in spring and autumn.
7. Visit Auckland Museum
Explore natural history, Māori and Pacific culture, and hands-on exhibits in the children’s Discovery Centre. Entry to Auckland Museum is FREE for Auckland residents (with proof of address) and for SuperGold Card holders. Children under 5 are also FREE. Bring lunch for a picnic in the Domain afterwards, or enjoy the café with indoor and outdoor seating.
8. Ride the Link bus for a city mini adventure
If your grandchild loves buses, hop on a red or green Link bus and enjoy a loop around the city or inner suburbs. With a SuperGold Card, your ride is FREE during off-peak hours (after 9am weekdays). Bring a little toy or snack for the journey and enjoy the sights together.
9. Check out Auckland Art Gallery
If your grandchild enjoys colours and space, the Auckland Art Gallery is a surprisingly relaxing place to visit. Entry is FREE for New Zealand residents. The Creative Learning Centre sometimes has interactive exhibitions for tamariki, and the peaceful gallery spaces can be enjoyed at your own pace.
Low-Cost and FREE Extras
While many of the outings above are completely FREE for both you and your grandchild, the ideas below may include a small cost if your grandchild is over 5 years old. However, they are still very affordable — especially if you hold a SuperGold Card — and all of them are FREE for children under 5 and/or SuperGold seniors.
10. Visit MOTAT
The Museum of Transport and Technology is packed with interactive exhibits, heritage trams, vintage vehicles, and aviation displays, which are all a hit with young children. Entry is FREE for under-fives and SuperGold Card holders. Trams are included in general admission and run between the two MOTAT sites. A great mix of indoors and outdoors for a half-day adventure.
11. Take the ferry to Devonport
Catch a ferry from downtown Auckland to Devonport for a seaside outing. With your SuperGold Card, the ferry is FREE on weekdays, and children under 5 also travel FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. Once you arrive, walk along the beach, grab an ice cream, and visit the small playground near Windsor Reserve. It is an easy and scenic half-day trip that young children love.
12. Go for a swim at a local pool
Many Auckland Council pools offer discounted or FREE entry for SuperGold Card holders. Toddlers love the shallow play areas and splash pads. Check ahead for session times and pool temperatures — weekdays mid-morning are usually quiet.
Who Can Get a SuperGold Card & How to Apply
You are eligible for a SuperGold Card if you are aged 65 or over and a New Zealand resident. You automatically receive one when your NZ Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension starts. If you don’t receive a pension, you can still apply by completing the downloadable SuperGold form with ID and sending it to MSD. The card is free to apply for and never expires.
Use it for free outings
Once you have your card, you can pair it with a gold AT HOP card to travel FREE off-peak on Auckland buses, trains and ferries — after 9am on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays. This makes it easy and affordable to get to places like MOTAT, Auckland Museum, or even hop on the ferry to Devonport. Children under 5 travel free too when accompanied by a paying adult.
Tip for Grandparents:
Bring a bag with snacks, wet wipes, a change of clothes, and a drink — even for short adventures. Most of these outings can last 1 to 3 hours, depending on energy levels. And if you need a break, a shared quiet moment under a shady tree or on a park bench is just as special.