Get ready for a massive weekend in Auckland! The world’s fastest boats are hitting the water with SailGP, and there's also music, markets, and crafts for the little ones. Don't miss the high-energy fun happening all around the city centre.
See our top picks
Auckland Live Summer in the Square
Aotea Square
Free entertainment and activities wrapping up in Aotea Square on Sunday.
Metrolanes Bowling
Aotea Arts Quarter
A classic indoor option for guaranteed fun, suitable for all ages.
Babies and Bubbles
East Coast Bays Library
Free songs and movement session designed specifically for children aged 2 and under on Saturday morning.
· February 14
3: The world’s fastest racing on water returns to the Waitematā Harbour. You can grab tickets for the Grandstand to watch the action live, with races running late afternoon.This is the main event happening this weekend, offering incredible, high-speed sporting entertainment right on the harbour.
BABIES AND BUBBLESFREE : If you have a toddler aged two or under, head to Browns Bay Library for songs, movement, and, of course, bubbles. Sessions run in the morning.It's a fantastic free event explicitly targeting the youngest family members in a safe library setting.
DREAMING FROM AFARFREE : This is a free painting exhibition featuring artists depicting imagined and visited places. A nice, quiet cultural stop for the family.It's free entry and offers a calmer, artistic alternative to the busy weekend events.
· February 15
5: Kick off your Sunday with a fun music session featuring Kiwi favourites Suzy Cato and Anika Moa. They will be singing all the well-known children's tunes.It’s a dedicated, high-quality kids’ music concert featuring two very popular presenters, perfect for a relaxed Sunday morning.
: There is a Pop Up Carnival happening at Botany Town Centre this weekend. It's one of the last chances to catch it before it finishes on the 15th.Carnivals are always a hit with kids, and this is the final day of the event, making it a 'Last Chance' pick.
AUCKLAND LIVE SUMMER IN THE SQUAREFREE : Aotea Square hosts its big summer party this weekend, running until the 22nd. Expect free entertainment and activities perfect for a relaxed Sunday afternoon.Free, central entertainment in a large square means kids have space to move around while parents relax.
FREE : The base of the Sky Tower is hosting a backyard party vibe at their Summer Garden until March 1st. It’s a great central spot for a Sunday morning coffee while the kids explore.It's central, free to access the garden area, and runs all weekend in a fun atmosphere.
: Celebrate culture this Sunday at the Children's Chinese Festival in the North Shore. This is a one-off event dedicated to family fun.Offers a specific cultural experience aimed squarely at children on Sunday.
Also On· anytime this weekend
8: Get the kids crafting at the Maritime Museum this Sunday. They are celebrating Valentine's month, so expect some themed creations.A great indoor, hands-on activity that ties in nicely with the city's maritime theme.
FREE : The Wynyard Quarter comes alive on Saturday nights with the famous Night Markets. Expect food stalls and a buzzy atmosphere perfect for an early dinner out.It's a quintessential Auckland weekend evening experience with great food and an open-air vibe.
FREE : If your family enjoys a morning jog, this free running club is open to all levels this Sunday. Get some exercise in before lunch!It’s a totally free activity to get the whole family moving early on Sunday morning.
FREE : Head to Britomart early on Saturday morning for this weekly market. Great for grabbing fresh food or treats while the kids look around.A great way to start a Saturday downtown, offering browsing and snacks before the afternoon rush.
: Explore the culture, music, and food of Latin America at this market located in Freyberg Place. It sounds like a vibrant change of pace for the family.It offers specific cultural exposure not found at standard weekend markets.
: Get out on the water for an exciting experience aboard a historic wooden vessel. Check listings for departure points around the waterfront this Saturday at 11 AM.A unique chance to sail on a historic vessel, which is more engaging than a standard ferry ride.
: If your kids love film magic, check out the daily hands-on creative workshop at 12:50 PM. This is a great indoor option for Saturday.Wētā Workshop provides world-class, behind-the-scenes creative experiences that captivate older children.
: Bowling is always a reliable family fallback, especially if the weather turns. This spot in the Aotea Arts Quarter is described as fun for all ages.A reliable, covered activity perfect for the middle of the day on Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Auckland this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 14-15) offers free fun at the Auckland Live Summer in the Square in Aotea Square, the Britomart Saturday Market, Run4Auckland on Sunday morning, and the Babies and Bubbles session at East Coast Bays Library.
Is there anything happening on the water besides SailGP?
Yes, you can book a unique experience Sailing on BREEZE on Saturday at 11 AM aboard a historic wooden vessel.
Where can we find evening entertainment for kids near the Viaduct?
The Silo Park Night Markets run both Saturday and Sunday evenings until 11 PM in Wynyard Quarter, offering plenty of food and atmosphere.