Free & Cheap Things To Do with Kids in Auckland this Winter (2025 Edition)

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Free & Cheap Things To Do with Kids in Auckland this Winter (2025 Edition)

Family with two young children walking and riding a balance bike through a leafy park.

The temperatures might be cooler, but winter is full of fun opportunities to explore Auckland with your tamariki. Whether you are looking to fill the weekends or school holidays, this guide brings together the best free and low cost family friendly activities around the city.

From scenic outdoor spots and community events to budget cafés and indoor play zones, these ideas are perfect for families who want to make the most of winter without spending too much.

Free Outdoor Adventures with a Winter Twist

Even in winter, Auckland’s parks and beaches can be magical. Just rug up, pack a thermos and explore one of these gems:

  • Cornwall Park – Calves are born from mid July and baby lambs arrive in August.  Find out more info here. Visit the baby animals and warm up with hot chocolates at the café.

  • Long Bay Regional Park – Explore the coastal track or try the adventure playground, perfect for a sunny winter morning.

  • Ōrākei Basin Boardwalk – A scenic and stroller friendly loop with plenty of birdlife to spot.

  • Western Springs Park – Feed the ducks, spot the pūkeko and enjoy space to scoot or bike.

Winter tip: Try a free family scavenger hunt. Print a list of things to spot like a pine cone, a duck or a muddy puddle and tick them off as you go.

Children and parents walking through Cornwall Park
Children in Cornwall Park

Free Places Where your Kids Can Play or Learn

For rainy days or cold snaps, these free indoor options are ideal for young ones and teens alike:

  • Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki – The Creative Learning Centre is open daily and includes hands on art activities for children. Entry is free for New Zealand residents.

  • Museum Entry for Aucklanders– Auckland families can visit the Auckland Museum and the Maritime Museum for FREE with proof of address.

  • Your local library – From storytimes and LEGO clubs to board games and reading zones, Auckland Libraries offer free sessions for all ages.

  • Smith and Caughey’s – Visit the Queen Street window archive and explore the visual storytelling celebrating 145 years of retail history this winter.

Winter tip: Check your local library for special school holiday events. Many host free workshops, crafts and game days.

Birkenhead Library Children's Area | Photo by Auckland for Kids
Birkenhead Library | Photo by Auckland for Kids

Low Cost Activities Under Ten Dollars Per Child

Affordable fun does not have to mean basic. These low cost favourites are well worth the small spend:

  • Auckland Dockline Tram – Just two dollars per ride on Sundays, Long weekends and public holidays from 10am to 4pm.

  • Public Pools with Hydroslides – Many council pools like Albany, West Wave and Lloyd Elsmore have small admission fees and fun extras.

  • Manukau Live Steamers – Ride miniature trains through Mangere Centre Park on select Sundays for a gold coin donation per person. Bring closed shoes and check running dates in advance.

  • MOTAT Entry with a SuperGold Card – Grandparents can enter MOTAT for free with their SuperGold card.

Winter tip: Look for combo passes or off peak deals. Some indoor play venues offer discounts midweek or after 3pm

Mini steam train ride at Manukau Live Steamers in Centre Park
Miniature Trains at Manukau Live Steamers

FREE Family Events in Winter 2025

Winter is packed with free whānau events celebrating Matariki, art, music and culture. Here are some highlights:

  • Matariki Festival Events – Community parades, star gazing, performances and kai around the region.

  • Learn 2 Ride – bike sessions for your children to learn how to ride a bike.

🔗 See the full list of free family events this winter here

Auckland for Kids visits Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Pool in Mangere
One of Auckland Council's Swimming Pools

Cosy Cafes that Welcome Kids

Warm up and treat the kids with a hot chocolate and a play stop:

  • Olaf’s Artisan Bakery Café in Mt Eden – Kid friendly with bakery treats and room for prams.

  • Crave Café in Morningside – Space to spread out and a relaxed family vibe.

  • Little Lato Gelato Bar in Wynyard Quarter – Offers mini cones and winter gelato flavours.

Winter tip: Ask if they do babycinos. Many cafés offer them free or for one dollar.

Budget Friendly Extras for SuperGold Card Holders

If you are heading out with grandparents, they can access:

  • Free entry to MOTAT.

  • Discounted travel on trains, buses and selected ferries.

  • Savings at public pools and community centres.

Tip: To apply for a SuperGold Card, visit supergold.govt.nz

Plan Ahead for the July School Holidays

Many activities listed above can be planned into your school holiday adventures. For even more ideas:

🔍 Explore our School Holiday Guide for July 2025
🎟️ Check the Events Calendar for what is on near you
🗺️ Filter by age, region and category to find the best fit for your whānau