22 things to do with kids in Waikato these holidays

The Fun Shed and Blasta cars are just two amazing things to do in Waikato

If you live in the Waikato region or are visiting this school holidays, then make sure to put some of these activities on your to-do list.

1. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Visit the glowworms at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

2. Kiwi House and Native Bird Park

New Zealand’s largest free-flight aviary, Kiwi House and Native Bird Park are dedicated to the conservation of the kiwi. There are lots of native species to learn about, including several species of kiwi, kea, and tui, as well as tuataras and green tree geckos.

3. Kiwi Culture Show

The Kiwi Culture Show is a humorous show featuring log sawing, explosions, a kiwi bear, and live animals which may include a working sheepdog, a Hugh cattle beast, and a smart pig!

4. Blastacars

Strap in and head to Blastacars, a dirt drift car track where the kids can race each other on the indoor track.

5. Hobbiton Movie Set

Head out to the Shire and visit the Hobbiton Movie Set. Second breakfast, anyone?

6. Raglan Surf School

Cowabunga, dude! Brave the cold water and head to Raglan Surf School to learn a new skill.

7. Leap Indoor Trampoline Park – Hamilton

If the kids are bouncing off the walls, then let them leap at Leap Indoor Trampoline Park.

8. The Boat Shed Kayaks

Brave the chilly waters of Lake Karapiro and head to the Boat Shed Kayaks, where they run kayak and paddle boarding tours. Our pick: The glowworm trip, which is run at twilight and takes you through into a magical glowworm canyon.

9. Riverlea Theatre

Check out what is currently running at the Riverlea Theatre, the perfect visual treat for those who never grow up.

10. Megazone

Head to Megazone with friends for a fun, energetic game of laser tag.

11. Hamilton Gardens

There is plenty to explore at HamiltonGardens. These paradise-like gardens are inspired by various places around the world, and more make for relaxing and beautiful viewing.

12. Waikato River Explorer

Spend an afternoon cruising down the mighty Waikato River on the Waikato River Explorer.

13. The Fun Shed playground (pictured left above)

For a day full of excitement and adventure, spend some time at The Fun Shed, an indoor playground for children of all ages.

14. The Classic Museum

Head along to The Classic Museum where they have over 100 classic cars. It’s a petrol-head’s heaven!

15. Hamilton Zoo

There’s plenty to see at Hamilton Zoo, with all different kinds of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians to get up close with.

16. Extreme Edge Hamilton

Extreme Edge in Hamilton has over 30 different themed climbs to excite and challenge the kids these school holidays.

17. Horse Riding Raglan

Experience Raglan on horseback with Horse Riding Raglan. They customise their treks to suit any level of rider, which makes it perfect for beginners and children.

18. Water World

Head to Water World for a day of water fun. Featuring a 25-metre children and toddler pool, as well as a splash pad and hyroslides, there is a load of fun to be had.

19. Footgolf

Round up the kids for a game of footgolf! It’s much like golf, except you play with a bigger ball and you kick the ball rather than hit it. This is guaranteed to be fun.

20. The Bowlevard

Go bowling at The Bowlevard. Striiiike!

21. Waikato Museum and Exscite

There is plenty to learn at the Waikato Museum, with exhibitions on World War I, fashion, art, Jane Auste,n and Fieldays. But if the kids are more hands-on learners, then head along to the Exscite Science Gallery, where there are plenty of fun activities to partake in, including playing a tune on the musical pipes or creating mesmerising patterns by changing the magnetic field on the Magnetoscope.

22. Taitua Arboretum

Escape the city and visit the Taitua Arboretum. The Arboretum is the perfect place to explore, with a collection of mature trees covering over 20 hectares, as well as lakes and woodland gardens which are linked by a network of paths.

More Kid Friendly Waikato Ideas From Tots to Teens

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