Beat holiday blues with colour and activities

From City Scene, published on 6 July, 2008

There is plenty on offer in Auckland to keep kids entertained and parents calm during the school holidays.

Lost treasures of Rajah

Kids have an intriguing adventure in store at the Auckland Museum these school holidays with The Lost Treasures of Rajah.

Their mission? To decode cryptic clues, complete various tasks and avoid various pitfalls, all to uncover hidden treasures somewhere in the museum. The expedition, for intrepid adventurers aged 7 years or older, is led by the museum's resident adventurer, Calcutta Smith. Runs 5-18 July, daily at 11am and 1pm. Collect your tickets from the Big Red Arrow in the Atrium from an hour before each tour. Free with admission donation ticket.

Secret drawers and doors tour

The museum's Secret Drawers and Doors tour offers kids of all ages a thrilling educational journey of discovery as museum scientists uncover more unique treasures - including colourful butterflies and gigantic spider crabs, which are usually stored out of sight in specimen drawers. Runs 5 -11 July, daily at 12pm and 2pm.

Visit the museum online or phone 306 7070 for more information.

Exploring Energy

Discover and experience the unlimited potential of energy at Motat's new holiday experience, Exploring Energy. You can spin on an exciting ride inside a gyroscope, take turns with friends on a bungy run to see who can stretch the cord the furthest before being pulled back with a twang, and make your own windmill to take home. Other exciting things to do at Motat - all covered by the price of a single admission - include taking part in the Powerball challenge, and the Science Roadshow, which has more than 60 interactive exhibits.

Visit the website or phone 0800 668 286 for more information.

But wait there's more...

Don't forget to take the kids along to your local library these holidays to take part in some great holiday activities, including free colouring and creative competitions.

The Auckland Art Gallery is also offering a programme of art workshops especially for kids during the holidays.

To register for the art gallery's holiday programmes, phone 307 4540 between 10am to 4.30pm or email us.