Aotea Square (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Aotea Square?
What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: Children enjoy lawn games, free family shows and a seasonal ice rink, but there is no fenced playground, traffic borders one side, and toilets are inside the Aotea Centre across the plaza.
Positives:
- Free entry and events: Most performances and open-air activities are complimentary for families.
- Central location: Steps from Queen Street and public transport stops make access easy.
- Spacious lawns: Large grassed areas let kids run and play safely.
Challenges:
- Weather exposure: Open areas offer little shelter in strong sun or rain.
- No playground equipment: Square has no dedicated play structures for younger children.
- Crowds during events: Popular events can get noisy and seating is limited.
What is Aotea Square?
- A public square in Auckland’s central business district that opened in 1979 as an open-air civic space for concerts and cultural performances
- A sprawling paved and grassed plaza edged with sculptures, bronze statues and fountains
- An entrance framed by the Waharoa arch, crafted from timber and copper to embody Māori cultural motifs
What is so special about Aotea Square for with kids?
- Discover Māori art through the Waharoa gateway and bronze sculptures.
- Picnic and free play on grassed terraces with benches for breaks.
- Join family-friendly Whānau Day shows and open-air dance classes.
- Skate at the seasonal ice rink in winter months.
- Catch free movies, concerts and DJ sets on the Digital Stage.
Recommended visit duration: 1-1.5 hours
Why 1-1.5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Kids can explore the sculptures and play on the lawns without getting tired.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Aotea Square
Explore the Waharoa gateway & sculptures:
Walk through the tree-and-copper arch and discover bronze Māori warrior statues and fountains.
Tip: Bring a camera and point out the symbols to kids. Visit early to avoid crowds.
Open play on grassed terraces:
Let kids run, kick a ball or picnic on the green lawns.
Tip: Pack a small ball, snacks and a picnic blanket. Use nearby benches to rest.
Attend Whānau Day events:
Enjoy free kid-friendly music shows, interactive theatre and line-dancing sessions.
Tip: Check the Auckland Live calendar online for upcoming dates. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Try the winter ice rink:
Skate on the seasonal ice rink when it’s open (tickets from NZD 15 per person).
Tip: Book tickets online in advance. Dress kids in warm gloves and thick socks.
Watch Digital Stage performances:
See free evening movies, concerts and DJ sets on the big LED screen.
Tip: Bring headphones or a travel speaker. Grab a hot drink from Container in the Square.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Aotea Square
- Check event schedule: Review the Auckland Live website before you go to plan around family shows.
- Arrive early: Get a good spot on the grass or benches by 10 AM or 15 minutes before events.
- Pack essentials: Bring hats, water, snacks and a blanket for a comfortable visit.
- Use shaded benches: Find spots under trees on the north side to stay cool on hot days.
Reviews of Aotea Square
kara goddard
Lovely spot for people watching. Terrace bar is good. Town hall for gigs. Loads of pretty lights.
Aditya Kampalli
Very convenient spot for large groups celebrations. Projector setup for Diwali is great.
Hibiscus Jetski Hire
It’s a town centre hub and open and inviting as much as traditional city squares can be. Often some art installations here or other events hosted like kids activities during school holidays. There’s a decent sized green lawn area and cafe as well as parking underneath. Easy for the weekend trip into town.
Steve Dlima
The Winter Graduation was well organized and held on 8th August 2025 at the Aotea Centre. The venue was clean and well presented, with ushers dressed professionally and assisting guests courteously. However, doors for family entry opened later than the scheduled 0900hrs, and the catering facility at the stall area was not available.
Paul Family
TOI was an amazing show with a fantastic group of extremely talented young artists. The world is your oyster young ones. Congratulations on all the hard work 👏 💪 you were all very brave on stage 👏 220 amazing outfits watch out WOW
When is the best time to visit Aotea Square (Auckland, New Zealand)?
In summer bring sun hats, sunscreen and water. In winter, skate at the rink and wear layered clothing.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ice skating tickets (4 at NZD 15) | NZD 60 |
| Snacks & hot drinks | NZD 20 |
| Parking (2 hours at NZD 5.50/hr) | NZD 11 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 91 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Aotea Square
Address: 291-297 Queen Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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About Aotea Square
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 9 309 267710 BEST nearby Activities
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