The Ultimate Guide to Winter School Holidays

Ahuriri may be known for its sunny seaside charm, but winter doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. With crisp coastal air, cozy cafés, and plenty of indoor and sheltered activities, this vibrant suburb is full of family-friendly adventures—perfect for making special school holiday memories. Here’s your go-to guide for a day out in Ahuriri this winter.

Explore, Play & Stay Warm at Spriggs Park

Spriggs Park is still a top spot for winter play. Let the kids burn off some energy at the expansive playground, which has areas for both little ones and bigger adventurers. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and huddle under the shade sails (or take shelter in the pavilion if it's breezy) while the kids play.

The nearby Spriggs Park Pavilion is your winter ally, offering warm, clean amenities including:

• Toilets and a parenting room

• Two changing rooms

• Outdoor showers (if brave winter explorers get muddy!)

• A drinking fountain

If the weather allows, bundle up and go exploring along the rocky shoreline at low tide—it’s a great time to spot marine creatures and enjoy the quieter coast.

Pedal (or Stroll) Along the Rotary Pathway

Don your puffer jackets and take a scenic stroll or scoot along the Rotary Pathway, which runs beside the sea and through the heart of Ahuriri. This flat, family-friendly path is ideal even in cooler weather, with plenty of photo ops, playgrounds, and murals along the way. Be sure to check out the vibrant environmental murals—they’re both thought-provoking and visually stunning.

Capture the Moment with the Giant Chairs

A family day out isn’t complete without some adorable photos, and Ahuriri has just the spot! Seek out the Giant Chairs scattered around the beach area for a fun and quirky photo opportunity. These oversized seats are perfect for snapping a memorable family portrait while enjoying the coastal vibe.

The beach is also a beloved family-friendly spot, perfect for little ones to build sandcastles at any time of year, or dig into the Ahuriri Treasure Chest—a unique initiative stocked with wooden toys and loose parts to keep kids entertained on the sand.

Protected by pōhutukawa trees and complete with BBQs and picnic tables, this beach is a great spot for a relaxed family lunch.

Fishing, Even in Winter

For rugged winter fun, grab the fishing rods and head to the marina or Te Karaka Reserve—a peaceful place to try your luck. Rug up, bring snacks, and enjoy the simple magic of wintertime fishing, with plenty of spots to perch and cast a line.

Indoor Fun & Cosy Moments

If the weather turns chilly, head indoors to  Beattie & Forbes Bookshop —a warm haven with a magical children’s section filled with books, puzzles, and toys. It’s the perfect place to pick up a new story for bedtime or a quiet game for rainy afternoons.

Just around the corner, The School Shop  is a treasure trove of family essentials—from indoor toys to creative craft kits to keep little hands busy during indoor playtime.

Fuel Up at Family-Friendly Eateries

When it’s time to refuel, Ahuriri’s café and restaurant scene has you covered. Head to Milk & Honey to enjoy their delicious breakfast menu or choose from their cabinet of toasties, scones, and sweet treats, all of which are perfect for recharging after a morning of fun.

For a more substantial meal, The Boardwalk Bar & Bistro offers hearty family fare alongside stunning ocean views that will keep kids and parents captivated.

For dessert, don’t forget to stop by Scoop for a sweet treat, or grab artisan snacks and goodies from Bellatino’s Kitchen to enjoy later.

Warm Up with Wholesome Eats (and a Sweet Surprise)

After a morning of winter adventures, treat the family to a cozy bite at one of Ahuriri’s welcoming eateries. Milk & Honey is a go-to spot for hearty breakfasts, warm toasties, and steaming mugs of hot chocolate—perfect for recharging in comfort.

For something more filling, head to The Boardwalk Bar & Bistro, where the whole whānau can enjoy stunning ocean views paired with comforting winter fare. Right now, they’re offering an incredible three-course meal for just $49 per person—a perfect option if you're after a relaxing, sit-down dining experience.

They’re also taking part in The Great New Zealand Toastie Takeover with their mouth-watering Seoul Train toastie. Packed with Colby cheese, gochujang shredded chicken, punchy kimchi, McClure’s Bread & Butter Pickles, and crispy fried shallots, all tucked inside buttery grilled ciabatta and finished with parmesan and a sprinkle of kimchi dust, it’s a spicy, cheesy winter treat you won’t want to miss—and it's only $19!

When it’s time for a sweet treat, make your way to the Ahuriri Corner Store, home to freshly made real fruit ice cream blended to order with fruits. It’s a nostalgic delight the whole family will love—even on crisp winter days.

And for something refreshingly fun, don’t miss their in-store Ahuriri Boba Bar. With a vibrant selection of fruity bubble teas (you must try the Lychee Rose or the Cucumber Watermelon) topped with white jelly, popping boba, and fresh fruit, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your day with a burst of flavour.

Hunt for Ahuriri’s Hidden History

Make learning fun by tracking down Ahuriri’s heritage boards—seven plaques dotted around town that tell fascinating stories of the area's rich past. From port history to architectural treasures, it's a great way to mix a walk with local discovery (and stay warm with an educational mission!).

Marvel at Murals That Tell a Story

As you wander through Ahuriri, take the time to admire its striking street murals. These larger-than-life works of art don’t just brighten the streets—they tell powerful stories about important issues. From the impact of overfishing to global climate change, plastic pollution, and habitat loss, these murals are both visually stunning and thought-provoking. They’re a testament to the artistic heart and environmental conscience of this coastal community.

Spot Wildlife & Say Hi to Sooty

Even in winter, Ahuriri is teeming with wildlife. Look out for seabirds along the estuary and, if you're lucky, the occasional penguin or dolphin sighting offshore. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for Sooty the Cat—Ahuriri’s unofficial mascot and feline celebrity. If you spot him, be sure to grab a photo and share it with his many fans!

Wrap Up Your Winter Adventure

Whether you're rugged up exploring coastal paths, tucking into warm treats, or browsing bookshops on a rainy day, Ahuriri has everything you need for a winter family day out. It’s the perfect mix of discovery, creativity, and cozy comfort.

So layer up, head out, and make the most of the winter school holidays—Ahuriri is waiting to be explored!