It’s that time of the year again when excitable young minds need to be entertained for a fortnight on end. Thankfully, there’s plenty on. From the Auckland Pet Expo to Dr Seuss on stage, here are a few of your better options:
Allow Lemony Snicket to take you and the children on a symphonic murder mystery by attending the APO’s The Composer is Dead. Mr Inspector will proceed to interrogate each section of the orchestra, asking questions about their whereabouts on the night of the murder. This is a musical adventure strictly for the brave-hearted. (Saturday 6th October, Bruce Mason Centre)
While likely to open the door to that tricky ‘Why can’t we get a dog/cat/guinea pig/pony?’ conversation, the annual Auckland Pet Expo is guaranteed to be a hit. Along with plenty of products, talks and demos, there will be a puppy and kitten cuddle corner, pony rides, a petting zoo and even a troop of dancing dogs. (13th & 14 October, ASB Showgrounds)
Direct from New York and the creative team from Cirque du Soleil, Air Play is a circus-style showcase with the very air we breathe at its centre. Adults and children alike are guaranteed to be awed and delighted as balloons dance in the wind, confetti turns into the night sky, and an enormous canopy of hovering silk goes flying overhead. This mind-blowing extravaganza, merges circus and theatre with sculptural artistry.
In celebration of their 21st birthday, La Cigale French Markets will be hosting a reunion market that the kids are bound to love. Taking place this weekend only (29th & 30th September), the Parnell stalwart is paying homage to past and present market stalls with entertainment, prizes and games throughout the weekend. Joining the lineup will be Pic’s Peanut Butter, Bluebell’s Cakery, Aotea Made and Cook and Nelson.
With no better excuse to leave the hard work to someone else, Ostro’s Sunday roast is the perfect indulgence when the school holidays arrive. With an array of different options available, from the extraordinary beef Wellington to the classic rump, bookings are recommended. For more great ideas on where to dine out with the kids, click here.
Dr Seuss is making a stage revival with a one-day-only performance of his famous The Cat in The Hat story. The words “I know it is wet and the sun is not sunny, but we can have lots of good fun that is funny” may never ring truer for your fun-seeking little ones. (Saturday 29th September, Bruce Mason Centre.)
Employing the talents of some of New Zealand’s best skateboarders, Young Guns Skate School is, again, a great option for teaching kids the essentials of skating in a fun, safe environment. Encouraging ideals of respect and perseverance in mini Tony Hawks of all levels, classes are suitable for children aged 4 to 15, with programmes that run during the term, and not just for the school holidays.
