Queen Street (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Queen Street?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: Children can tackle Odyssey Maze, escape rooms, treasure hunts and seasonal ice rink without leaving the street, saving transit time. Narrow busy footpaths and few playgrounds may fatigue kids.
Positives:
- Easy access: Queen Street runs from the waterfront to downtown with clear pedestrian paths and frequent bus stops.
- Indoor options: Several activities like the sensory maze and ice rink are indoors, so you can escape sudden rain.
Challenges:
- Weekend crowds: The street fills up on weekends, which can slow walking and wait times at shops.
- Limited seating: Benches are scarce; bring a small foldable mat or plan snack stops at cafés.
What is Queen Street?
- A major commercial thoroughfare spanning approximately three kilometers from Auckland’s waterfront at Quay Street to Karangahape Road.
- A historic avenue laid out in 1840 and named for Queen Victoria, showcasing a harmonious blend of Victorian, Edwardian, and contemporary architectural landmarks.
- The central spine of Auckland’s CBD, flanked by heritage structures such as the Bank of New Zealand Building and Auckland Town Hall alongside modern high-rise developments.
What is so special about Queen Street for with kids?
- Interactive treasure hunts keep kids engaged along the street
- Indoor attractions like a sensory maze and ice rink for all-weather fun
- Easy snack and picnic spots within a short walk
- Kid-friendly dinner options at Tanuki’s Cave for an early evening meal
- Central location with good transport links and nearby facilities
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 1-2 hour stroll lets families enjoy interactive hunts, snacks, and sights without tiring younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Queen Street
Goose Chase: Curious Creatures Treasure Hunt:
Follow app clues to spot animal sculptures hidden along Queen Street.
Tip: Download the free Goose Chase app, bring a charged phone and start near Britomart.
Odyssey Sensory Maze:
Navigate a maze of lights, sounds, and illusions in the Metro Centre basement.
Tip: Book the NZ$32 goggles pass, and prepare children 8+ by explaining dark rooms.
Aotea Square Ice Rink:
Enjoy seasonal skating and two-lane curling at the pop-up rink.
Tip: Book your NZ$15 session online, wear warm socks, and arrive 15 minutes early for fitting.
Picnic at Albert Park:
Grab wraps and baking from Scarecrow Café on Queen Street and relax under big trees.
Tip: Head uphill via the Vulcan Lane stairway and bring a picnic mat for the grass.
Early Dinner at Tanuki’s Cave:
Dine on kid-friendly yakitori sticks in a cozy underground setting.
Tip: Ask for extra veggies on skewers and go before 6 pm to avoid dinner rush.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Queen Street
- Start smart: Begin at the northern waterfront end and work south to avoid backtracking with tired kids.
- App-guided fun: Use the Goose Chase treasure hunt for a free, guided walk that keeps children engaged.
- Combine lunch and play: Pair a picnic at Albert Park with a quick playground visit to break up the stroll.
When is the best time to visit Queen Street (Auckland, New Zealand)?
In winter (Jun–Aug), book ice rink slots early and bundle kids warmly. In summer, the treasure hunt runs often; pack sunscreen and water. During late Nov–Dec, find a spot early for the Christmas Parade.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ice Rink session (4 people) | NZD 60 |
| Odyssey Sensory Maze (2 kids) | NZD 50 |
| Picnic food from Scarecrow Café | NZD 30 |
| Yakitori dinner at Tanuki’s Cave (4 people) | NZD 32 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 172 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Queen Street
Address: Queen Street, Auckland, New Zealand
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Queen Street (Auckland)?
About Queen Street
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇳🇿 New Zealand, with kids
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities