Rotorua's Agrodome is a hands-on farm adventure the whole family will love. Photo / Supplied
From Wellington sports games to Mackenzie Highland fairs, there’s plenty to keep Kiwis entertained this coming Easter long weekend and well into the school holidays that follow.
Here’s your guide to making the most of Easter and the beginning of autumn, wherever in Aotearoa you find yourself.
Air Playground
Whoosh, gust, swirl and float! At Air Playground, curious kids and families explore the invisible force of air through hands-on fun. Discover aerodynamics by floating objects, testing materials in a fast airstream and launching your own paper planes. Challenge friends to “aircade” games and experiment with the speed and direction of airflow. Developed by Scienceworks experts at Museums Victoria, this interactive exhibition is packed with playful learning.
Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery, Hamilton On now until April 19 | Open daily 10am-5pm | From $10
Gallagher Chiefs v Waratahs
The Gallagher Chiefs are back under the lights at FMG Stadium Waikato, taking on the Waratahs in a clash sure to be packed with speed, skill and big moments. Bring the noise and be part of the electric home-game atmosphere as the Chiefs look to turn pressure into points in front of a passionate home crowd.
FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton April 4 | Kick-off 7.05pm | Ticket prices vary
Mini Golf Rotorua
Set in a whimsical garden just 10 minutes from central Rotorua, Mini Golf Rotorua with Rabbits is a delightful 18-hole mini golf course where fun and curiosity go hand in hand. Perfect for families and friends, this unique experience lets you putt amid waterfalls, native fauna and friendly Flemish rabbits that hop or lounge around as you play. Play by day or under twinkling lights with bubbles and music adding to the vibe. Think low-stress entertainment that keeps everyone smiling.
152 Fairy Springs Rd Adult $20 | Child (Under 16) $16 | Under 5 $4
Agrodome Rotorua
Set on 140ha of lush farmland just 15 minutes from Rotorua, Agrodome is a hands-on farm adventure the whole family will love. Settle in for the famous Farm Show, where sheep are shorn, clever farm dogs show off their skills and plenty of laughs are guaranteed. Then jump aboard the all-terrain tractor trailer for a guided farm tour, stopping to hand-feed sheep, alpacas and other friendly animals along the way. Little ones can get up close, learn something new and enjoy wide-open spaces to explore. Finish with a sweet treat at the cafe or a browse in the farm-themed gift shop.
141 Western Rd Adult $55 | Child $35 | Infant free
Port of Tauranga National Jazz Festival
An annual celebration of all things jazz. The Historic Village recreates New Orleans flair on Good Friday, with national and international musicians. Performances will be held at various other locations, including Baycourt. Dress up and step back in time at The Cargo Shed’s swanky Cocktail Swing or watch the Vintage Car Parade along The Strand. Take a sunset cruise on Kewpie or swim ‘n’ jazz by the pool in Katikati. jazz.org.nz
Various events from March 27 to April 6
Flavours of Plenty Festival
One to mark on your calendar for school holidays or post-Easter refreshment. Join the fifth annual celebration of the Coastal Bay of Plenty’s world-class food and beverage producers and creative hospitality stars. With almost 60 events across 18 days, it’s all about bold ideas and fearless flavours. Experience Greek, Indian, Asian, European and Māori cuisines. Expect mouth-watering fun with immersive dining, degustations, cultural events, workshops, demonstrations, and more. There are 20 specially designed Plates of Plenty Challenge dishes to taste and vote for from April 1. flavoursofplentyfestival.com
Tauranga, Western Bay of Plenty, and Whakatāne | Nearly 60 different events April 16 to May 3 | Prices vary
Otawhiwhi Cultural Walk
Enjoy fresh air, exercise and history during this three-hour walk and talk. Te Whānau a Tauwhao orator Reon Tuanau will share stories about the area’s rich cultural history. This walk offers stunning views of Te Moana a Toi, with plenty of time to stop and learn about the pā stronghold that protected the local hapū (indigenous tribe). Part of the Echo Walking Festival (March 20 – April 19). echowalkfest.org.nz/events/otawhiwhi-cultural-walk
Waipaopao carpark, Bowentown | Saturday April 4 | 9am–noon | Registration required | Donation requested
Ohakune Beer Festival
Easter weekend in the carrot capital of New Zealand means you’re in for something special at the annual Ohakune Beer Festival. Held at the historic Kings Ohakune, this must-do event in Ruapehu showcases the passion and products of small independent breweries, alongside a legendary slow-cooked barbecue, food and live music. The crew from Roots Brewing, Ruapehu Brewing Co, LADS Brewing Co, and The Beer Engine invite you to savour and sip the fantastic flavours at Ohakune Beer Festival. visitruapehu.com
Kings Ohakune | April 4 | 2pm until late | Early bird tickets $50 | General admission $60 | Kids free
Easter Egg Hunt at Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu
Come and experience the fun and festivities of New Zealand’s highest Easter Egg Hunt at Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu, kicking off this Easter and throughout the school holidays from April 3-19. Bring the whole family and enjoy a great day out as you explore the stunning volcanic terrain of Tongariro National Park and soar above the clouds on the Sky Waka gondola ride to claim your prize at Knoll Ridge Chalet – dining at 2020m above sea level. whakapapa.com
Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu April 3-19 | 10am-4pm | No cost for Easter Egg Hunt (Sky Waka gondola ride pricing varies)
Taranaki Pride Week
From the maunga to the moana, Taranaki Pride Week transforms the region into a bold, high-energy celebration of inclusivity and self-expression. Live music, performances, parties and powerful storytelling fill venues across the region in a vibrant 10-day programme that attracts locals and visitors alike. Timed perfectly with the Easter break, it’s an unforgettable long-weekend experience that’s uniquely Taranaki.
Taranaki | April 10–19
Taranaki Art Show
Easter weekend meets creative energy at the Taranaki Art Show. This boutique, curated showcase brings together 40 of Aotearoa’s most exciting artists across painting, photography, illustration and sculpture. Meet the makers, discover one-of-a-kind pieces and experience an atmosphere that feels both electric and intimate. It’s culture with substance, and the perfect excuse for an autumn escape.
The Collaboration TSB Stadium, New Plymouth | April 10-12
Anzac Day Classic
Legends return. Rivalry rekindles. The Anzac Day Classic hits Stadium Taranaki on Saturday, April 25 as The Classics of New Zealand face Classic Australia in a fast, entertaining transtasman showdown. Some of the biggest names in rugby will wind back the clock in a fast, free-flowing clash, packed with skill, humour and old rivalries reignited, all in the spirit of Anzac Day.
Stadium Taranaki, New Plymouth | April 25 | 2.35pm | Tickets available now at Ticketek.
The ‘Gin’ Supper at Greytown International Cocktail Festival
This autumn, for a month, The “Gin” Supper at The White Swan Country Hotel on Saturday, April 4, will shake and stir the village with a celebration of flavour, creativity and classic hospitality: themed drink menus, intimate tastings, cocktail workshops, special dinners, lively parties and relaxed afternoons on the Green. A delicious Easter afternoon in the award-winning Captain’s Dining Room. Enjoy a tasting journey of four exquisite Greytown Distilling Company gins, each thoughtfully paired with a four-course showcase menu created by head chef Tim Stephenson.
The White Swan Country Hotel, Greytown, Saturday, April 4 | noon-2pm | $99 | greytownvillage.com/greytown-international-cocktail-festival
Greytown Apple Harvest Festival
Gather your family and celebrate the bounty of autumn at the third annual Greytown Apple Harvest Festival. Free entry. Wander through the apple-laden orchard and Molewood Meadows and pick your own apples and pears for just $3 a kilo. Try cider and fruit wine tastings from local makers. Artisan market stalls, food trucks, games, puppy cuddles and carriage rides, live music, games and activities for the kids. Some delicious festival food options available on the day will be Schoc sour apple bonbons and toffee apples, apple pie cocktail, apple and beef sausage rolls, roast pork with apple sauce and a golden apple and walnut crackle, as well as hot pork sandwiches loaded with apple sauce.
Molewood Orchard and Meadows, Mole St, Greytown, Saturday April 4 | 10am-3pm | FREE | molewoodorchard.com/harvest-festival-3
White Ferns v South Africa, 3rd ODI
The White Ferns face South Africa in an exciting ODI clash this Easter, part of a best-of-three series. Expect powerful batting, sharp bowling and high-stakes action as two world-class teams battle it out.
Cello Basin Reserve April 4 | 11am | From $5
Mackenzie A&P Highland Show
Step into tradition at the Mackenzie A&P Highland Show, returning for its 128th year on April 6. This much-loved event promises a full day of entertainment with crowd favourites Josh Grimaldi, the Bedford School of Music, and Callum & Andy. Highlights include the Mackenzie Shears, sheep dog trials, wood-chopping contest, the Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band, and the ever-popular Lolly Scramble, ensuring there is something to delight visitors of all ages. More than 150 trade sites, carnival rides, delicious treats, and equestrian events await, alongside exhibits ranging from home-baking and crafts to wearable arts, photography and farm produce.
Fairlie April 6 | Gates open 8am | Adults $20 | Under 15 $5
Ride the rails through Ōamaru Heritage Precinct
Hop aboard a steam or diesel train in Ōamaru and travel through the majestic glory of the town’s historic precinct before getting up close with the famous little blue penguins. Only running on Sundays and special occasions, there’s an extra trip scheduled on Easter Saturday, with Easter eggs included. Stopping at Ōamaru Penguins, catch one of the first two runs of the day (11am and 11.45am) to visit the much-loved colony before returning on the 1.20pm train. Tickets are for sale at the Harbourside Station, Itchen St.
Saturday April 4 and Sunday April 5 | Round trip: Adults $10 | Children $5 | Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) $28 | Under 5 free
Clyde Wine and Food Harvest Festival
The small village of Clyde plays host every Easter Sunday to the annual wine and food harvest festival. It is set in the picturesque historic precinct of the village, where people of all ages come together to enjoy the best of wine and food, along with lively entertainment. This event has become a fixture on many people’s calendars and is extra special as any profits made are directed into projects for the betterment of the community. clydewineandfood.co.nz
Heritage Precinct, Clyde | Sunday April 5 | 10.30am to 4.30pm | Adults $31 | Children 13–17 $11 | Under 12 FREE
Kiwi Art Trail in Central Otago
For the first time, the Kiwi Art Trail is coming to the South Island. After featuring at the NZ Golf Open and Bannockburn wineries in March, from Easter, the collection of 20+ kiwi sculptures turned into bespoke artworks by talented New Zealand artists will be found in and around the historic village of Clyde. The profits from the auctioning of the sculptures go towards the much-needed funds for kiwi conservation. The Kiwi Art Trail is a free, family-friendly public art trail for all to enjoy. kiwiarttrail.nz
Clyde and Surrounds, Central Otago | April 2 to April 30 | Free
Warbirds Over Wanaka
Warbirds Over Wanaka is a biennial airshow held in Wānaka, returning this Easter (April 3–5). The event will feature spectacular aerial displays of historic warbirds, modern military aircraft and aerobatics, alongside ground exhibits and family attractions. A major highlight will be the first New Zealand appearance of the USAF F-22 Raptor demonstration team. Tickets can be purchased in advance through Ticketek.
April 3–5 | General admission one-day pass Sat/Sun: Adult $109 | Child 5–17 $19
Ayrburn’s Great Easter Egg Hunt
Ayrburn’s Great Easter Egg Hunt (Saturday April 4) brings Easter magic to life in one of Queenstown’s most scenic spots. This family-friendly event starts around 10.30am, with timed waves for different age groups. Children roam the spacious grounds hunting for eggs and cheeky surprises. Register via their website before time, tickets are $10 per child. After the hunt, families can meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy food and seasonal treats.
Saturday April 4 | 10.30am | $10 per person
Dunedin Botanic Garden
Dunedin Botanic Garden attracts people in droves throughout spring thanks to the blooming of the blossoms and rhododendron dell, but the five-star garden of international significance and New Zealand’s oldest botanical garden transforms over the autumn months. Around Easter, deciduous trees change colour, creating veins of gold throughout the trails and terraces of the garden. Meander along the tracks, feed the ducks on the lower pond dotted with maples glowing red or sign up for the weekly Saturday park run. A new refurbished playground will keep the kids busy while the adults enjoy a coffee and Ham Solo from Beam Me Up Bagels.
Otago Central Rail Trail
Autumn colours remain the theme as the weather tends to be more settled over Easter. The Otago Central Rail Trail is a great way to get the family active over the Easter break and the following school holidays. Grab your bikes and hit the trails starting in Middlemarch, just outside of Dunedin city. Cycle through historic tunnels, soaring bridges and viaducts and past golden gorse-covered countryside. Enjoy the scenic Rock and Pillar Ranges, and the rural views of the Strath-Taieri and Taieri River while you burn off that Easter chocolate and make room for more.
