The summer school holidays are a fantastic time for kids across New Zealand, but they can also be a costly one for families. With long days to fill and kids keen to be on the go, entertainment expenses can quickly add up — especially after Christmas. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to keep kids busy and happy without overspending.
With a little forward planning and by making the most of vouchers and special offers, families can enjoy school holiday experiences while keeping costs under control. January is the perfect time to look for summer-appropriate activities that offer great value and plenty of fun.
One of the easiest ways to save money during these school holidays is by checking out LetsGoKids vouchers and special offers!
Below are just some of the most popular kid-friendly vouchers available across New Zealand this summer — and there are many more vouchers to explore inside the app.
Auckland Region
Auckland families have plenty of school holiday favourites to choose from. Popular vouchers include kids playing free at Escapade when visiting with adults, discounted day passes at Butterfly Creek, and 20% off rides at Auckland Adventure Park. Crystal Mountain’s buy one, get one free park entry is also a hit with families, while Thrillzone offers discounted action-packed fun for older kids.
Bay of Plenty
In the Bay of Plenty, families can enjoy simple, budget-friendly fun with offers such as free child swims at Whakatane Aquatic Centre, discounted tours at Waihi Gold Mine, and free child entry at Marshalls Animal Farm with a paying adult. These are perfect options for warm summer days and school holiday outings.
Taupō offers a great mix of indoor and outdoor fun for school holidays. Vouchers include discounts at Confinement Escape Room, a free VIP pass at Mind Junction, and family-friendly dining deals at Cobb & Co Taupō. Taupō DeBretts also offers a bonus soft drink with pool entry — perfect for summer swims.
Waikato
Waikato families can enjoy savings on iconic experiences like Waitomo Adventures, with discounted activities for adventurous kids, as well as fun indoor play deals at Inflatable World Hamilton where kids can bring a friend for free.
Wellington Region
In the Wellington region, families can take advantage of free entry deals at H2O Xtreme and bonus kids’ meal offers at Cobb & Co Porirua, making school holiday days out more affordable.
Canterbury (Christchurch & Akaroa)
Canterbury families are spoilt for choice with vouchers including discounted entry to the International Antarctic Centre, savings at Willowbank, and family-friendly wildlife and nature cruises in Akaroa. Alpine Jet Thrills also offers adults riding at kids’ prices, which is always a crowd-pleaser.
Make the Most of the Holidays
Using vouchers might seem like a small saving, but over the course of the school holidays, those savings really add up. By combining voucher-backed outings with free activities like parks, beaches and playgrounds, families can enjoy a stress-free and affordable summer.
Before locking in your school holiday plans, download the LetsGoKids app from the App Store or Google Play Store and explore the full range of vouchers available in your region. With so many offers available in-app, you’re sure to find something the kids will love — while keeping your holiday budget on track.
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