Jake Helsby, 12, from Belmont, tries out his moves at the Auckland School of Rock. Photo / Glenn Jeffrey

Jake Helsby, 12, from Belmont, tries out his moves at the Auckland School of Rock. Photo / Glenn Jeffrey

School holidays begin today and with the weather forecast predicting wet and cold, it is important to find some interesting activities for the kids.

It's too cold for the beach and often too wet for backyard sports, so the Weekend Herald checked out some of the slightly different holiday programmes on offer for winter, guaranteed to beat the boredom and keep parents sane.

For those who'd rather not pay hundreds of dollars, we've included some of Auckland's more down-to-earth activities as well.

AUCKLAND SCHOOL OF ROCK

Budding musicians need look no further than the Auckland School of Rock where kids form their own rock bands in four days.

After enrolling, they audition and are placed into three or four bands which then write and record a song under the eye of mentors from New Zealand groups (such as Geordie McCallum from Motorcade and Paul Reid from Rubicon).

Managing director Gareth Moore says the programme is designed to push kids out of their musical comfort zone, while building on existing talents and skills.

At the end of the four days the bands perform a concert for friends and family.

Most equipment is provided, as is morning tea.

Age: 12-19
Cost: Ranges from $125-$249
When: First week of the holidays from Tuesday to Friday
Where: Hobson St and Auckland Domain
Website: www.aucklandrock.com
To register: classes@aucklandrock.com
Phone: 0800 ROCK ON

KIDACTIVE MODELLING FOR TWEENS

This three-day course is run by industry professionals and teaches the basics in grooming, haircare, catwalk, modelling and dance.

It culminates in a catwalk show put on for friends and family.

Spokeswoman Lucy Mackenzie says the course is designed to boost confidence and self-esteem.

Each girl gets a certificate at the end, and there are level-two courses if they want to progress.