Fun, family-friendly activities for the cooler days ahead

Last Updated : 12 May 2026

Stay active

A lady standing still next to the front of a swimming lane.

Don't forget to come visit one of the many Auckland Leisure Pools across the region, including the much loved West Waves pool in Henderson.

As the weather cools down, the fun doesn’t have to stop! Head to Ourauckland and explore affordable and free ways to stay active this autumn.

Auckland Council’s 43 Pool and Leisure Centres have something for everyone this season, from a thrilling indoor hydroslide and wave pool at West Wave in Henderson to an abundance of heated pools to choose from around the region.

You can also challenge yourself with rock-climbing at the Birkenhead Pool and Leisure Centre or get active at any Auckland Council Pool and Leisure Centre gym, with affordable options for all.

Keep the kids entertained and stay active all season long!

Stay entertained

A child reading a book in the children's section of the library.

Kids will love the variety of play spaces, books available and creativity to be inspired by at one of our community led Auckland Libraries.

There’s plenty of things to do to keep you entertained in Tāmaki Makaurau over the cooler months.

Visit your local library for a cosy place to borrow a huge range of books and more, or check out many of the arts and culture activities available in your area, such as your local community theatre, art gallery or museum. You could even learn a new skill at your local community centre.

Stay in nature

A guy walking in nature.

Feel like enjoying some fresh air and taking in the views of our city? Visit one of our maunga / mountains across the Auckland region.

As long as you have suitable gear for all weather conditions, you can still make the most of nature!

Visit the treetop boardwalk and surround yourself with mature kauri and tānekaha in Northcote’s Kauri Glen Reserve, or marvel at the canopy on the Puhinui Stream Forest Path in Manurewa. For a haven of regenerating native bush and delightful birdsong, visit Point View Bush Path in East Tāmaki.

Mid-winter swim

A lifeguard tower on the beach.

Even in the colder months, Narrow Neck beach is a great spot for a coastal walk along the waterfront.

A winter swim in the sea is as refreshing as it gets. Dare each other to brave the chill of the water at Narrow Neck Beach on Auckland’s North Shore and then rug up and share a barbecue as the sun goes down. Use the public facilities and playground on offer beachside. It will be one for the family memories archive! 

For more things to do, read more of the great articles available on OurAuckland

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