Dec 4

Dec 4 Summer Holiday Prep

Shockingly summer is upon us. The kids are done with school next week, and we have a long eight week break ahead of us. Usually this break is used for big trips, but with covid still ravaging most of the world and strict quarantine procedures in place, we will stay in New Zealand this year. I am compiling a list of summer camps and one-off activities to do over this break so we don’t spend the bulk of the time sulking around the house. Here’s what I’ve got so far, and I’d love to know what you’ve got planned for this break.

Summer Camps
Unlike in the US, sleep away camps aren’t ubiquitous. There are a few for older kids, but I haven’t found any for my 5 and 7 year old. (Side note, this is a real bummer. I started going to sleep away camps when I was 5 and it was the highlight of every summer. When I had kids and we were living in the States, I kept saying how I couldn’t wait for the summer they were 5 and 7 and could go away to camp together and give us some extended adults only time in the house. Alas, that is not our life now.) There are, however, a huge selection of day camps to choose from. The ones we are interested in this time around are:
- Artz on Show - Drama
- Auckland Netball - Multisport
- Bricks for Kidz - Lego
- Conscious Kids - Outdoor play
- Creative Matters - Art
- Eastern Suburbs Gymnastics - Gymnastics, parkour, ninja, and circus
- Eastern Suburbs Soccer - Soccer
- Orakei Tennis Club - Tennis and multisport
Camps set their own dates, and there are a few that run until the 22nd/23rd and then start up again on January 11. Most give you the option of going by the day or by the week, and some give you half day or full day options. The prices range from NZ$50 for a half day to NZ$88 (US$32.50 - US$57.20) for a full day. The going rate for a week of classes is anywhere from NZ$250 to NZ$350 (US$162.50-US$227.50). They all want you to send your kid(s) with lunch, snacks, hats, and sunscreen.
One off Events
In addition to holiday programmes (and yes, they’re spelled with an extra “m” and “e” in there) I’m also compiling a list of activities to have on hand for the weekends and during the three and a half weeks when camps aren’t an option. On my list so far I have:
- America’s Cup World Series Regatta - The highly anticipated start to the America’s Cup is happening on December 17-20. We will definitely check out the excitement of the “flying monohulls” and the events at the race village.
- Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari - We did this once before, but we didn’t see much in the way of whales or dolphins, so we have a voucher to go again. Hopefully the kids will stay awake this time and we’ll see some amazing animals. If not, I know we’ll get a voucher to try again.
- Avondale Pump Track - Until January 18. This one looks small-kid appropriate.
- Beach visits - There are too many incredible beaches within an hour and a half of Auckland. I’m looking forward to revisiting Omaha Beach and Anchor Bay the most!
- Brickman Exhibit at the Auckland Museum - Until February 28. Also, the museum in general. There is a great kids’ area, tons to explore, and general admission is free for Auckland residents.
- Goat Island day trip - Don’t forget your snorkel gear!
- Man-o-War day trip - I’ve heard there is an incredible Waiheke Island lawn for the kids to play on while the adults can enjoy wonderful food and wine
- Maritime Museum - I’m ashamed to say we’ve never been here. And we’re sailors. Bonus: free for Aucklanders!
- Sweet Red - This farm claims to have the best strawberries in the world. We’re willing to drive to Helensville to find out if that is true or not.