10 No-Cost Activities to Keep Tamariki Busy During the Holidays

School holidays are awesome—but keeping tamariki entertained can be expensive. Here’s a list of fun, free or super low-cost ideas that are creative, active, and don’t involve a screen (well, most of them).

1. Nature Treasure Hunt

Head to a local park, beach, or bushwalk. Make a list of things to find: a feather, smooth rock, something red, a bug. Tamariki love the adventure!

2. Homemade Playdough

Flour, salt, water, oil, and food colouring = hours of fun. Look up easy recipes online (most use pantry staples).

3. Library Missions

Most libraries have free holiday programmes, story time, or activity packs. Plus, books! Free entertainment, quiet time, and air con.

4. Obstacle Course at Home

Use couch cushions, chairs, string, and whatever’s lying around. Time each other for laughs and light exercise.

5. Backyard Camping

Pitch a tent (or build a fort), toast marshmallows, tell stories, and stargaze. You don’t need to leave home to make memories.

6. Picnic at the Park

Pack lunch and head out for a walk and picnic. Bring a ball, frisbee, or board game to make it a full afternoon.

7. Water Balloon Games

Hot day? Fill a few balloons or buckets and get outside. Keep it safe, supervise younger kids, and make it fun!

8. Scavenger Hunt at Home

Create clues and hide little surprises around the house. Great for rainy days.

9. Dance Party!

Let each kid choose a few songs, crank up the volume, and boogie. It’s silly, energetic, and lifts everyone’s mood.

10. Acts of Kindness Challenge

Write letters to grandparents, make a card for the neighbours, or bake cookies to share. Teaches empathy and gives purpose.