Things to Do with Kids in Porirua (2026)

One of the most serene and welcoming outdoor spots in Porirua, Aotea Lagoon is incredibly popular with locals, and there’s enough here for a full day of exploring with the family. Let the kids cool off on the splash pad in summer, tackle the playground or hop on the miniature train, which runs around the lagoon on Sunday afternoons. Or simply grab a coffee from the cart and do laps of the lagoon itself - the wide pathway is buggy and wheelchair-friendly. Did we mention the picnic and BBQ areas, separate toddlers’ area, petanque court and outdoor gym?

If you and your kids are up for a challenge with some pretty neat views to boot, head to Adrenalin Forest in Aotea. Strap into the safety system and climb and swing your way through the trees on rope bridges, Tarzan swings and flying foxes, with Porirua Harbour peeking through the branches. There are courses to suit a range of fitness and skill levels, and it’s open year-round. Climbers need to be at least 140cm tall, so it’s best for older kids and teens.

Like walking? Love birds? Pāuatahanui Wildlife Reserve is an amazing little haven where you can escape with the kids and immerse yourselves in the unadulterated sounds of nature. The boardwalks that maze through the reserve are both wheelchair- and buggy-friendly, with short walking tracks making it easy to explore the space. Children will love staking out a spot in the viewing hides and peeping out at the diverse birdlife that call the reserve home.

Just over the hill from Pāuatahanui, Battle Hill Farm Forest Park is 500 hectares of rolling farmland and forest where sheep and cattle still graze. Walking tracks wind through the fields and along stream beds, making it a great spot for kids to spot farm animals and native birds. There’s a campground out front too, so you can turn your day trip into a family camping adventure.

Tucked away at the north-western end of Plimmerton, Karehana Bay is one of the region’s best-kept summer secrets. The flat, sandy beach has a gentle gradient that makes it safe for little swimmers, and the yacht club helps shield it from the swells. Bring a bucket and spade, then grab fish and chips from Plimmerton Fish Supply on the way home.

Often regarded as the creative and cultural heart of Porirua, Pātaka Art + Museum offers a fascinating visit for all ages, including the little ones. The whole family will enjoy slowly walking through the exhibitions and musing at the more than 22,000 collection objects, but you won’t want to miss the kids’ gallery, which revolves around the story of the Porirua Harbour. Join your kids in learning all about the harbour and its wildlife through the many interactive experiences.

A truly one-of-a-kind museum, the New Zealand Police Museum at the Royal New Zealand Police College shares the rich history of this country’s police force. For what seems like a fairly niche museum, there’s plenty to pique young ones’ curiosity: check out the Junior Detective Trail, try one of the activity sheets or snap a pic with the uniforms and the police motorcycle. Entry is free and it’s open daily from 10am to 5pm, with school holiday programmes for kids too.

When the weather turns, Te Rauparaha Arena in the city centre is a lifesaver. The Arena Aquatic Centre has a wave pool, lazy river, hydroslide and toddler pool to keep everyone entertained, plus spa pools for parents. Little ones can also burn off energy at kindy gym.

If it’s a typically wet and windy Wellington day - or the kids are just feeling a little lazy - Light House Cinema in Pāuatahanui is a great place to snuggle up for the afternoon. Showing the latest blockbusters and independent films, with plenty of family-friendly options, it offers a relaxing atmosphere for all, with the bonus of a great in-house cafe. They cater for babies too - head along on a Tuesday morning for the Mums & Bubs session and enjoy a new release in a welcoming, baby-friendly environment.

There are few places better for a relaxed family breakfast, lunch or sweet treat accompanied by a fluffy than t bay cafe in Tītahi Bay. From cabinet goodies to full breakfast spreads, burgers and more, there’s something for every mood, appetite and age. Dog-friendly spaces, a children’s play area and local art on the walls make this not just a cafe but a real community hub.

Need a little pick-me-up? Head to the seaside suburb of Plimmerton, where the dainty Cake Cafe sits just a stone’s throw from the beach. Pick up a selection of the mum-and-daughter team’s specialty cupcakes (including vegan and gluten-free options), brownies or cookie sandwiches. Again - don’t say we didn’t warn you about the ensuing sugar rush!

Tucked inside The Works commercial park in Elsdon, Neverland Cakes & Sweet Treats is a family-run cake and cookie store that proves adventure awaits in every bite. Look for the colourful Jolly Roger flying over the entrance, then step inside to find a pastel-accented shop with a cabinet stacked with a rotating selection of loaded NYC-style cookies and cakes. A treat stop the kids won’t forget.