As any parent knows, boys (and many girls, of course) are all about action and finding thrill in the adventure of tracking and chasing moving objects, hitting targets, testing their own strength and playing at fighting off enemies. They are in perpetual motion. If you’re looking for excursions to keep them entertained, then we’ve found Auckland’s action packed fun to help you out.
Survival Day
Where? Muriwai Valley Road, Muriwai
SOS (Survival Training) provides get-togethers and parties for those who wish to learn how to survive in the wilderness. Here, keen trainee commandoes will learn to shoot down targets, fish for eels, build shelter and create an open fire. An army-themed tent is onsite for the post-survival feast.
Rocket ropes
Where? 12 Tom Pearce Dr, Mangere
High ropes, low ropes, croc towers, ripper zippers and big leaps are what you have to look forward to at Rocket Ropes. Adrenalyn bunnies are well entertained, and if your not so brave, but love climbing and crawling, then there’s still plenty of fun to be had. Butterfly Creek is right next door if you want to make a full day of it, and there are BBQ’s and tables if you want to bring your own lunch.
Tree Adventures
Where? Boundary Road, Woodhill Forest, Waimauku
For all the parents of little monkeys, this one’s for you. Tree Adventures is home to all things swinging and climbing amongst the forest. With courses designed to suit different ages and confidence levels, it is ideal for kids who love a good challenge.
Woodhill Forest Pump Track
Where? 16 State Hwy, Kumeu
Auckland’s most popular and mesmerising biking track, Woodhill Forest is open seven days a week for biking action. With over 100km+ of maintained tracks, there are options suitable for riders of all abilities.
Paintball, Archery and Arrow Tag
Where? 46 Nixon Road, Auckland Airport
Lock N Load Adventures have a range of fun activities ideal for kids who are eager to get dirty. Low-impact paintballing, target shooting, archery and arrow tag dodgeball are onsite to ensure your weekend or party is enjoyable.
Indoor Drift Karts
Where? 82 The Concourse, Henderson
For children over eight, Blastacars is the ultimate hub for those wanting to feel the rush of track racing in a safe and fun environment. They also have a birthday party option which includes a party room, BBQ use and a ping pong/foosball table.
Bounce and Beyond
Where? 10a Kerwyn Avenue, East Tamaki
If your kids love to bounce, climb and jump around, Bounce and Beyond is for them. With an entertaining atmosphere, this inflatable playground is a must-visit for parents with mischievous and energetic youngsters.
Learn Parkour at Flow Academy
Where? 4/59 Corinthian Drive, Albany or 20 Dunrobin Place, Highland Park
Flow Academy provide everything from parkour, hip-hop and circus arts classes, holiday programmes and birthday parties. Parents of kids who love a bit of danger – you’re in luck, as classes are creative, fun and challenging.
Oracle Animal Care/ Pet Parties
Where? Unit 20/45 Karepiro Dr, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparaoa 0932
Interact with some of the friendliest little animals in the world at an Oracle workshop or birthday party. Learning to care for our furry (and sometimes slimy) friends is important, something Oracle highlights through its fun and educational activities.
Vector Wero White Water Park
Where? 770 Great South Road, Wiri
Offering an artificial river and water course for families, this water attraction is ideal for boys wanting to feel a rush of adventure. The River Rush and Pump Waterfall are just some of the fun activities you can try on the rafts and kayaks while at Vector Wero. Hold on to the boat as you go down the slide!
Clip and Climb
Where? 610 Dominion Road, Mt Eden
With a variety of different climbing frames including a pirate and video-game themed wall, boys are sure to have the time of their lives at Clip and Climb. This fun challenge is ideal for the weekends and popular for parties.
MOTAT
Where? 805 Great North Road & Meola Road, Western Springs
Home to some of the most incredible displays of all things car, train and plane in New Zealand, Motat was created for all transport lovers (both young and old!). Boys will love learning the history of some their favourite toys and cars through Motat’s fascinating and interactive exhibitions.
Snowplanet
Where? 91 Small Road, Silverdale
Whether it’s a hot summer’s day or chilly winter evening, Snowplanet is open year-round for Auckland’s snow-loving enthusiasts. There is fun to be had for all ages and abilities, including family snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding.
Bike tracks
If you’ve got a daredevil bike rider, then pump tracks, loop roads and cycle trails are the biz. The fun factor is seriously high, and it turns out racing around tracks with a myriad of corners, lumps, bumps, and other riders to avoid will actually develop your child’s hand-eye coordination and technical skills. No excuses (not that you’ll want any) – we’ve found all the best spots in Auckland to get those wheels moving and those hearts a-racing. Check out our go-to list here.
Flying foxes
What is it about flying foxes that has the kids going batty? They’re pretty much a fixture in a lot of playgrounds these days, so we’ve found 24 places for you to join in the fun (for free!).
By Finn Jelicich
Image: SOS Survival in Muriwai