Looking for a day out that feels like a mini adventure? Check out these 12 awesome ideas to make the most of the summer!

Catch the ferry to Devonport

Explore beaches, the North Head tunnels, the Navy Museum, op shops and more! Roam with Kids subscribers get a free fluffy with the purchase of a hot drink at Stone Oven too.

Walk up Mt Victoria for epic views, plus your kids will love the little mushrooms to play on at the top!

Visit the CBD

So much happens in our little city. Britomart holds markets every Saturday morning, the Maritime Museum has free ‘make days’ on Sundays, or just take a wander along the waterfront. Pack your togs and take a dip at Point Erin Pools, or meander around Westhaven on the pram- and bike-friendly path.

Take a road trip out west

Walk along the short track to the gannet colony at Muriwai, and explore the natural low tide tunnel at Maukatia Bay. There’s often food trucks at the beach in summer, and a great playground to explore!

Head up north to Matakana and Omaha

There are country markets in Matakana on Sunday 11 and 25 January, and Omaha Beach is fantastic for a swim and a play on the neat beach playground. The Farmers’ Daughter eatery is recommended on Roam and has a playground onsite, so is a great spot for lunch.

Visit Long Bay Regional Park

They have an epic coastal walk, plus plenty of big beautiful pōhutukawa to settle in for the day. If you’re around for low tide, the rock pools at the southern end are fantastic to explore.

Take a trip to Rangitoto

Climb to the summit for an interesting 360 views of the harbour, or explore Motutapu Island for a less uphill trip.

Rangitoto and Bean Rock Lighthouse (the playground at Devonport is based on this lighthouse!).

Catch the ferry to Waiheke Island

Catch the bus to Palm Beach, which is a great spot for kids with an awesome playground. Stop in at the Saturday markets in Ostend, and call into the Heke for lunch.

Visit Goat Island

See amazing sea life up close. There are places to hire clear kayaks and snorkel gear, and glass bottom boat tours. The Marine Reserve Discovery Centre is a great place to learn more about Goat Island and its inhabitants!

Head south and visit Hunua Falls

There are numerous walking tracks and spectacular falls to explore. It’s not pram friendly, but definitely possible for older kids and younger ones in carriers.

Hunua Falls is just 2 minutes from the main carpark, and a lovely spot for a picnic! There’s also a short loop walk you can do, it’s not pram-friendly but it is suitable for a lot of kids.

Visit Kaipatiki Reserve and the hot springs

Kaipatiki Reserve has an absolutely epic playground, and Kaipatiki Hot Springs (previously Parakai Springs) are nearby if you fancy a dip too! There’s shady spots and seating at both locations so pack a picnic and head out for the day.

Berries and Icecream

If you haven’t been strawberry picking yet, check out one near the outskirts of the city. Lots of places pile on the attractions and have bouncy castles, playgrounds and more. Pick (and eat) some strawbs, have an ice cream, and enjoy the sunshine.

Good Planet in Riverhead has so much more on offer than just berries; they also have a splash water park and an inflatable world - you can easily spend a whole day here!

Use Roam to explore a part of the city you haven’t been to before

Don’t forget to check in at your locations to enter our school holiday competition!

12 awesome days out for families in Auckland