As the school holidays continue we at the Rotorua Daily Post thought it was timely to highlight some of the best free child-friendly activities in the city.
Outside the Walls guided tour:
Rotorua Museum's doors may be closed, but local families are able to enjoy free guided tours taking inthe stunning and historic Government Gardens.
Rotorua Museum is fortunate to be housed in an area rich in history, so on the tour you can learn some of the interesting history of battles, buildings and the Government Gardens. The tours depart twice daily, at 11am and 2pm, from in front of the museum.
This hidden gem in the Redwoods Forest is a charming, magical place where children can bring homemade gifts for the fairies, and explore those left by other children. Sign posted, this spot is bound to be a hit with your children and all their friends.
Hannahs Bay:
The reserve sits on the shores of Lake Rotorua and is surrounded by the revitalising kahikatea forest. The beach is used for swimming, windsurfing and has easy access for water skiing and jet skis.
With facilities including a mobility playground, dog exercise areas, horse bridle trail, large open spaces for recreational activities and a wheelchair-accessible wetland walkway, the reserve is the perfect spot for children of all ages.
Open schools:
Many Rotorua schools keep their gates open during the summer holidays so families can continue to enjoy their fields and playgrounds. Grab a ball, your petanque set or a good book and make it an afternoon of outdoor games with the family. Just be sure to be respectful and take any rubbish home with you.
Geocaching. Photo/file
Geocaching:
All you need is a smart phone and some sturdy walking shoes and you will get hours of fun out of geocaching. The activity involves finding hidden containers using GPS co-ordinates. Each container ranges in size and many contain tradeable goodies for the children. The free app can be downloaded on Apple and Android phones.
