Times are tough? Not much money? But looking for things to do with the kids for free in Auckland? Don’t stress – Auckland and its surrounds have so much to offer that aren’t going to break the bank.

Here are 15 free things to do in Auckland for families (some cost a small amount) –
1. The Auckland Museum is free for locals. It is full of different exhibits that the kids will love, including the Weird and Wonderful section where they can explore in a little more of a hands on way.
2. Go rollerblading, skateboarding or for a ride along the edge of the harbour down and around the Mission Bay area.
3. Take a stroll through the Auckland Domain and check out the ducks ponds and vast open spaces.
4. Head over to Devonport and explore the quaint little town with restaurants, shops and a small maritime museum.
5. Check out the new Wynyard Quarter. There is an award-winning playground, plenty of open space to run around, boats to watch and heaps of kid friendly places to stop for something to eat.
6. Wander through the Auckland Art Gallery. They have a creative learning centre where the kids can use all the inspiration from the gallery and channel it into their own artwork.
7. Grab a picnic and head to Cornwall Park – it is a working farm with grazing sheep and cattle in the parkland. You wouldn’t think you were so close to the city!
8. Visit one of the many markets around Auckland – Parnell an “K” Road are on Saturdays. Browse for a bargain or grab something fresh and tasty!
9. Choose from one of Auckland’s many awesome beaches and spend the day hanging out. Ride a wave, have an ice cream, go for a swim or just relax under a tree.
10. Climb to the top of Mt Eden, the highest point in Auckland. Take a look at the 50m deep crater. The views are super and the kids will be tired by the end of it!
11. Go for a drive along the beach road from Downtown Auckland to St Helliers through Mission Bay. You will pass a range of playgrounds, beaches, bike hire places and more.
12. Learn some maritime history at the Maritime Museum.
13. Head to Red Beach when the tide is out and let the kids explore the rock pools. See what they can find!
14. The Potter Children’s Garden in the Botanical Gardens is a world of wonder designed to bring nature up close for the kids, where they can see the interplay between birds, insects, plants and the elements.
15. Enjoy a breath of fresh air and lets the kids run wild at one of Auckland’s 26 regional parks. Fin the perfect picnic spot, book one of the popular BBQ sites, take a walk through the forest, stroll along the coast or take a dip in the sea.

So, what are you waiting for? Round up the kids and start exploring Auckland (for FREE)!