Holiday park nestled amongst lush park-like grounds. Our outdoor hot pool and our private spas – all filled with natural mineral water.
School Holiday Activities
Looking for school holiday activities in Whakatāne? You've come to the right place. Whakatāne offers diverse school holiday activities keeping children engaged, active, and entertained during term breaks. From structured holiday programmes at community facilities to outdoor adventures, indoor entertainment, and educational experiences, the district provides numerous options for children across various ages and interests. School holidays are opportunities for children enjoying activities beyond regular school routines.
Holiday activities include supervised programmes at recreation centres, sports activities, arts and crafts workshops, outdoor adventures, educational experiences at museums and libraries, entertainment venues, and free activities at parks and beaches. Many organisations offer specific school holiday programmes with structured activities, qualified supervision, and age-appropriate content. Parents appreciate programmes providing safe, engaging environments whilst children enjoy varied activities and social interaction with peers.
Our directory connects you with Whakatāne's school holiday activities, programmes, and family-friendly options. Whether you're parent seeking supervised programmes, wanting outdoor activities, requiring children's entertainment, looking for educational experiences, or exploring free holiday activities, you'll find comprehensive information about school holiday options throughout Whakatāne with diverse activities ensuring children remain engaged and entertained during term breaks through programmes, attractions, and recreational opportunities suitable for various ages and interests.
Featured School Holiday Activities Listings
AWAKERI RAIL ADVENTURES
Travel along a piece of New Zealand's rich rail history, experience natural beauty and adventure from the comfort of a rail-cart.
DISTRICT 4 PAINTBALL
Whakatane's exclusive paintball park. We provide you with overalls, masks, paintball markers and paintballs.
EPIC ESCAPE WHAKATANE
Looking for exciting things to do in Whakatane? Epic Escape offers immersive escape rooms and a cutting-edge virtual reality arena, making it the ultimate entertainment destination.
GAME ZONE LASER TAG
Looking for action-packed entertainment in Whakatāne? Game Zone offers laser tag
JULIANS BERRY FARM & CAFE
We offer pick-your-own berries, berry sales, a cafe, a children's playground, mini golf, an animal farm, and more!
LITTLE WASCALS BOUNCY CASTLES
Looking for bouncy castle hire in Whakatane? Or somewhere to take the kids to burn off some energy?
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Whakatane is host to many natural and man made attractions that has made our town an activity destination in its own right.
MOTU RIVER JET BOAT TOURS
Motu River Jet Boat Tours offer an exciting 1.5-hour experience of jet boating on either the Motu River, Matahina Dam, or the Rangitaiki River.
NIKAU VALLEY HORSE TREKS
Nikau Valley Horse Treks is nestled in a scenic sheltered valley 10 minutes from Whakatane. We take all ages and experience.
ONEPU MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
The park is available free for the public to use for mountain biking and running or walking and has four main trails to choose from.
PORT ŌHOPE WHARF
Is a popular fishing, stand up paddle boarding, swimming and sailing location. It is also home to the Port Ōhope Yacht Club.
R n BEES BERRY ORCHARD WHAKATANE
For fresh berries, hot & cold drinks, and pick your own berries (when available) come and visit us!
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
We offer a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate most sports and gatherings.
RIVER EDGE PARK MINIATURE RAILWAY
River Edge Miniature Railway is owned and operated by the Eastern Bay of Plenty Model Engineers Society Inc.
RIVER RATS RAFT AND KAYAK
Within an hours’ drive from Whakatane you have 4 different river experiences as well as kayaking adventures to choose from!
SALT SPRAY SURF SCHOOL
Your instructors are friendly local surfers fully qualified in surfing, coaching, first aid, safety and surf awareness.
TAKUTAI ADVENTURES
Whakanes’s local eScooter, eBike & Stand Up Paddle board experts. We offer hire, lessons and sales.
TE KŌPUTU A TE WHANGA A TOI WHAKATANE LIBRARY & EXHIBITION CENTRE
Explore rich history at Whakatane Museum and immerse yourself in diverse knowledge and art in this dynamic community.
WAIRAKA CENTENNIAL PARK
Savor stunning views and a laid-back vibe at Wairaka Centennial Park near the mouth of the Ohinemataroa river.
WHAKAMAX MOVIES
Whakatane’s home of entertainment is the only place to enjoy all the escape, adventure, romance, drama, and action on the big screen.
WHAKATANE AQUATIC & FITNESS CENTRE
Swimming pools, spa pools, hydroslide, aqua fitness classes and a fitness centre.
WHAKATANE MUSEUM & RESEARCH CENTRE
The Whakatāne Museum and Research Centre - Te Whare Taonga ō Taketake houses the museum collection and archives.
WHAKATANE OBSERVATORY | ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Whakatane Observatory and Astronomical Society, the only Observatory / Planetarium in Whakatane.
Whakatane Rose Gardens Park
The Whakatāne Rose Gardens Park, located in the heart of Whakatāne, is the perfect venue for parkruns. Are you looking for a fun and active way to start your weekend?
Whakatane Skate Park
Whakatane Skate Park is a concrete park with great flow, street elements and an open-end bowl.
WHAKATĀNE WALKING TRAILS | BUSH WALKS
Explore Whakatāne's stunning walking trails and bush walks, perfect for all levels of hikers. Discover coastal views and native forests.
School Holiday Activities Listings
Boon Street Playground
Boon Street Playground is located on Boon Street next door to the Whakatāne Museum and Research Centre. The Boon Street Playground has compact soft mats, picnic tables, bench seats and shade provided by surrounding trees. There's a surrounding grass area perfect for picnics. Public toilets are available just down the road at the Boon Street taxi rank. The park is decorated with stone carvings and the famous tile wall constructed of various hand painted tiles from individuals and businesses.
BURMA ROAD CYCLING TRACK
The Burma Road cycle track is an easy to intermediate grade ride with some beautiful scenery and chance of spotting a kiwi!
Fishermans Drive Playground
Fisherman’s Drive Playground is located at the recreation reserve in Coastlands. The Fisherman’s Drive Playground is surrounded by a grass area perfect for picnics and offers picnic tables. Scattered trees provides the reserve with partial shade. The park is within walking distance to Coastlands beach.
KIWI WANDERING TRAIL
The Kiwi Wandering Trail in Whakatane (the Kiwi Capital of the World!) is a self-guided hunt for bronze replicas of this iconic NZ bird. Find ten life-like, life‑size bronze kiwi statues which wander right through the heart of Whakatāne.
This is fun for all the family and takes you through the CBD as well as the scenic beauty of our Riverwalks and the Whakatane Heads.
Do you have what it takes to find all 10 North Island brown kiwi? Manaia, Two Toes, Ahi, Miro, Big Al, Ōhope, Waewae, Kaputerangi, Pea, and Te Hau.
Mahy Reserve Playground
Mahy Reserve Playground is situated on the Mahy Reserve at the bottom of the Ohope Hill. As well as the Playground Mahy Reserve also has a basketball court, public toilets, large grass area, picnic tables, BBQ areas, is minutes away from Ohope Beach and has shops close by. There is plenty of parking spots. The Mahy Reserve is the perfect spot for a family picnic
Maraetotara Reserve Playground
Maraetotara Reserve Playground is a large playground that offers plenty of amenities located adjunct to Ohope Beach. The playground has lots of climbing equipment, swings, slides, gym equipment and a large flying fox. The reserve also has a skate bowl, BBQ area, public toilets, picnic tables, large grass reserve and plenty of shade provided by trees. The Maraetotara Reserve Playground is the perfect place for a family summer’s day out.
MOTU TRAILS
The Motu Trails are located between Opotiki and Gisborne and are part of Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail. There are several trails to choose from varying in difficulty and duration. The trails can be used year-round and are free. Ride, run, walk ... experience the freedom.
Opotiki Trails include the family friendly Dunes Trail, Otara Stopbank Trail, Taheke Road / Whakaumu Track, Otara East Road and Pakihi Track.
For Motu Trail Maps and information about Opotiki click here.
NGĀ TAPUWAE O TOI WALKWAY | TOI’S TRACK
Ngā Tapuwae O Toi Walkway or Toi's Track. Is Whakatane's most scenic walking track. Translated as ‘the footprints of Toi' the 16 kilometres of walkways on the outskirts of Whakatane are accessible to most people, regardless of fitness, because they can be walked in sections or as one round trip. Nga Tapuwae o Toi visits three major scenic reserves and a historic reserve. In Ngati Awa oral tradition Toi was a great chief, descendant of the legendary voyager Tiwakawaka and founder of a great tribe. The walkway visits Toi stronghold Kapu-te-rangi overlooking Whakatane.
ŌHOPE HARBOURSIDE TRAIL
The Ōhope Harbour side Trail is a cycling and walking track where you are allowed to walk dogs on a leash. The Trail is 2.9-kilometres of shared-use pathway that runs along the harbour edge, from Waterways Drive in the west to Port Ōhope Wharf. The Trail takes in views of the estuarine beauty of the Ōhiwa Harbour.
Click here for more information on the Ohope Harbour Side Trail
OHOPE HARBOURSIDE TRAIL
The Ohope Harbourside Walking & Cycle Trail is the completion of a long-held dream of making the changing moods and estuarine beauty of the Ōhiwa Harbour more accessible to the community.
The Trail is 2.9-kilometres of shared-use pathway that runs along the harbour edge, from Waterways Drive in the west to Port Ōhope Wharf. The Trail takes in views of the Ohiwa Harbour and the wildlife that call it home, there is also a playground along the way that has toilet facilities.
OHOPE SCENIC RESERVE
The Ohope Scenic Reserve includes one of the country's largest remaining coastal pohutukawa forests and has outstanding scenic and conservation values. During the summer flowering season, the reserve is ablaze with brilliant crimson flowers and the walk is a very special experience. Further inland the bush changes from typical coastal forest of pohutukawa, kohe,kohe, karaka, titoki, ngaio and akeake to other native trees such as rewarewa, tawa and kanuka.
Rimu Place Playground
Rimu Place Playground is situated at the end of the Rimu Place cul de sac with a second entrance through the, Mananui crescent alleyway. The Rimu Place Playground is a wooden playground that has park benches and partial shade by surrounding trees.
River Edge Park
River Edge Park located along the Warren Cole Walkway with views of the Whakatane River. River Edge Park provides entertainment for all ages. Equip with a large ocean theme playground, miniature train railway, BBQ area, toilets and located right next door to the Whakatane Skate Park.
Click here for more information on the miniature train running dates and times
Shaw Road Playground
Shaw Road Playground is located in the Shaw Road subdivision. The Shaw Road Playground is fairly new boosting soft mats underground, a sandpit, large playground, shaded seating areas, benches and a fountain.
TARAWERA FALLS
The Tarawera Falls are a sight to be seen, water from Lake Tarawera plunges 65 feet into the river below that continues to flow through Kawerau and the Eastern Bay of Plenty to it's ocean destination.
Visitors wanting to see the Falls will need to arrange a permit as access is via private forestry roads. Permits can be obtained from the Kawerau Information Centre.
Tauwhare Pa
Tauwhare Pa, located next to Ohiwa Harbour at Ohope Beach, Whakatane, is a must see Maori culture and history attraction. It is a preserved pre-European Maori occupation site, one of the oldest pa sites in the area.
It was built by Te Hapuoneone, an ancient tribe from which many of today's iwi descend.
The name Tauwhare implies 'the village suspended in space'. When viewed from the bottom of the southern end of the pā, the village gives this impression.
WARREN COLE CYCLEWAY & WALKWAY
The Whakatane River Walk along the Warren Cole Walkway/Cycleway is a gentle cycling cruise alongside the Whakatane River. Suitable for all ages, whether cycling or walking. One end is at the Whakatane River Bridge (end of Landing Road, almost under the bridge) and coming to an end at the Whakatane Heads at the end of Muriwai Drive (or vice versa).
WARREN COLE WALKWAY
Whakatane River Walk (Warren Cole Walkway) stretches from the Whakatane Bridge to The Whakatane Heads. The paved pathway is perfect for dogs, cyclists, runners and walkers. There are parts of the walkway that your dog is allowed off the leash and others where they have to be on the leash. Click here to see the designated on and off leash areas of the walkway.
Warren Park Playground
Warren Park Playground is situated within Warren Park along Eviers Road. The playground has compact soft mats underground, rose garden and is mostly shaded from surrounding trees. Within Warren Park is also a BMX track, fully fenced dog park and Whakatane's Astroturf stadium. Public toilets are available within Warren Park.
WHAKATANE BIKE PARK
The Whakatane Bike park offers a multi-use biking facility at Warren Park on Eivers Road. A great place for free style BMX, pump skills track, mountain biking and an exercise circuit.
Bike Whakatane Trust has been established to support and promote all things biking in the Whakatane District. Our members have been behind the development of Whakatane Bike Park, Bikes In Schools projects and events that promote safe cycling. Keep up to date with current projects on our Facebook page.
WHAKATANE COMMUNITY TOY LIBRARY
The Whakatane Community Toy Library is located within James Street School Whakatane. Access the Toy Library via Henderson Street where there is plenty of room to park and walk to the Toy Library room.
A Toy Library operates like a book library. By joining and becoming a member you are entitled to hire toys, games, and puzzles for a period of 2 weeks (4 weeks if living rurally).
Visit the Whakatane Community Toy Library on Facebook.
WHIRINAKI TE PUA-A-TANE
Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tane is the preserve of the mighty podocarp, ancient trees that once dominated the land and date back to the time of the dinosaurs. These magnificent trees combine with rushing rivers, fantastic ferns and bountiful bird life to create a fabulous forest capable of stimulating and satisfying every sense.
School Holiday Activities Map
Recreation Centre Holiday Programmes
Recreation centres often run structured school holiday programmes for children. Programmes include diverse activities from sports and games to arts and crafts. Qualified staff supervise children ensuring safe, supportive environments. Age-appropriate groups ensure suitable activities and social interactions. Daily or weekly bookings accommodate various parent needs. Programmes typically run during standard working hours supporting working parents. Activities balance physical, creative, and social elements. The structured nature provides routine during holidays. Whether you're working parent requiring childcare, wanting structured activities, seeking supervised programmes, or appreciating professional staff, recreation centre programmes provide comprehensive holiday care through diverse activities with qualified supervision ensuring children's engagement and safety.
Sports and Active Programmes
Sports-focused holiday programmes provide active entertainment for energetic children. Activities might include various sports, swimming, outdoor games, and physical challenges. Professional coaches or instructors teach skills and lead activities. The active nature expends children's energy productively. Sport-specific programmes develop particular skills. Multi-sport programmes expose children to diverse activities. Swimming programmes combine lessons with recreational pool time. Physical activity supports health and fitness during holidays. Whether you're children passionate about sports, wanting active holiday options, developing sports skills, or ensuring physical activity, sports programmes provide engaging activities through qualified instruction and varied sports ensuring active, healthy holidays with skill development.
Arts and Crafts Workshops
Creative workshops provide artistic and craft activities during school holidays. Activities might include painting, drawing, sculpture, and various craft projects. Professional artists or instructors guide creative exploration. Children develop creativity and artistic skills. The hands-on nature engages children meaningfully. Completed projects provide tangible achievements. Creative expression supports emotional and cognitive development. Workshop themes might align with holidays or seasons. Whether you're children enjoying creative activities, parents wanting artistic development, seeking quieter holiday options, or appreciating creative expression, arts and crafts programmes provide engaging activities through guided creativity with professional instruction ensuring skill development and artistic exploration.
Outdoor Adventures and Nature Activities
Outdoor holiday activities connect children with nature and adventure. Bush walks explore native environments teaching environmental awareness. Beach activities utilise coastal locations. Rock pool exploration discovers marine life. Conservation activities teach environmental stewardship. Outdoor survival skills provide practical knowledge. Nature-based art uses natural materials. The outdoor setting provides fresh air and physical activity. Environmental education develops appreciation for nature. Whether you're wanting nature connection, appreciating outdoor learning, seeking adventurous activities, or valuing environmental education, outdoor programmes provide engaging experiences through nature-based activities connecting children with local environments whilst teaching conservation and outdoor skills.
Library Holiday Programmes
Libraries often provide free or low-cost school holiday programmes. Activities might include storytimes, craft activities, educational workshops, and author visits. Programmes encourage reading and literacy during holidays. Age-appropriate activities suit various children. The free nature makes library programmes accessible to all families. Educational content combines learning with entertainment. Social aspects connect children with peers. Library resources support holiday learning and reading. Whether you're seeking free holiday activities, encouraging reading habits, wanting educational entertainment, or appreciating accessible programmes, library offerings provide valuable holiday options through diverse activities supporting literacy and learning in welcoming community spaces.
Museum and Educational Experiences
Museums and educational venues offer school holiday programmes and activities. Interactive workshops teach history, science, or culture. Hands-on activities engage children with educational content. School holiday themes might focus on specific topics. Educational entertainment combines learning with fun. Professional educators design age-appropriate programmes. Special exhibitions might coincide with holidays. The learning aspect enriches holiday experiences beyond pure entertainment. Whether you're valuing educational holidays, wanting cultural experiences, encouraging learning, or appreciating interactive education, museums and educational venues provide enriching activities through programmes combining education with engagement ensuring children learn whilst enjoying school holidays.
Entertainment Venues and Indoor Activities
Entertainment venues provide indoor holiday entertainment. Cinemas show children's films during holidays. Laser tag facilities offer active indoor entertainment. Bowling provides social group activities. Indoor playgrounds suit younger children. Escape rooms challenge older children and families. Trampoline parks provide active entertainment. Entertainment complexes combine multiple attractions. The weather-proof nature suits rainy day activities. Whether you're seeking indoor entertainment, wanting varied options, requiring rainy day activities, or appreciating commercial entertainment venues, facilities provide engaging activities through diverse attractions ensuring children's entertainment during holidays regardless of weather with options suitable for various ages.
Beach and Coastal Activities
Beaches provide free, accessible school holiday activities. Swimming in safe, patrolled areas offers classic summer holiday fun. Beach games include cricket, frisbee, and ball games. Sand castle building encourages creativity. Rock pool exploration discovers marine life. Coastal walks provide exercise and scenery. Beach picnics create family occasions. The natural setting provides healthy outdoor time. Lifeguard services ensure swimming safety during summer. Whether you're wanting free holiday activities, enjoying coastal environments, seeking active outdoor recreation, or appreciating natural playgrounds, beaches provide excellent holiday options through diverse activities in beautiful settings with swimming, play, and exploration opportunities.
Playground and Park Activities
Playgrounds and parks provide free holiday entertainment throughout Whakatāne. Playgrounds offer equipment for various ages. Open spaces allow running and active play. Picnic facilities support extended visits. Some parks include walking tracks. Sports fields accommodate ball games. The free nature makes parks accessible daily activities. Multiple locations throughout district ensure convenient access. Weather-dependent outdoor activities suit fine days. Whether you're seeking free daily activities, wanting outdoor play, requiring convenient local options, or appreciating natural play environments, parks and playgrounds provide accessible holiday entertainment through free facilities supporting active outdoor play with equipment and spaces suitable for children's recreation.
Holiday Activity Planning and Resources
Planning school holiday activities ensures engaging breaks for children. Community noticeboards advertise holiday programmes. Council websites list community activities and programmes. Local newspapers feature holiday activity information. Social media shares current holiday options. Early booking secures places in popular programmes. Budgeting for holiday activities helps financial planning. Balancing structured programmes with free time supports wellbeing. Combining different activity types maintains interest. Whether you're planning school holidays, researching available options, booking programmes, or organizing balanced holidays, planning resources and advance preparation ensure successful holiday periods with engaged children through well-chosen activities balancing structure, variety, and cost meeting family needs and children's interests.