Auckland School Holidays 2025: Exact Dates, Seasonal Activities & Must-Do Plans

Auckland School Holidays 2025: Confirmed Term Dates

The New Zealand Ministry of Education sets standardized term dates for most Auckland schools. Private institutions may differ slightly, so always confirm directly. Here’s the official 2025 schedule:

Holiday Period	Dates	Season	Duration
Term 1 Holidays	April 19 – May 4	Autumn	2.5 weeks
Term 2 Holidays	July 5 – July 20	Winter	2.5 weeks
Term 3 Holidays	September 27 – Oct 12	Spring	2.5 weeks
Term 4 Holidays	Mid-December – Late Jan 2026	Summer	6–7 weeks

Notes:

• Term 1 starts late January 2025; Term 4 ends mid-December (exact dates pending final confirmation).
• Teacher Only Days: Schools may close 1–2 extra days per term.
• Public Holidays: Matariki (June 20–23, 2025) falls during Term 2.

Verify dates via the NZ Ministry of Education.

What to Do During Each 2025 Auckland School Holiday

Tailor your plans to Auckland’s seasons with these season-specific activities for families, teens, and solo adventurers.

1. Term 1 Holidays (Autumn: April 19 – May 4)

Weather: Mild (14°C–20°C), occasional rain.
Top Activities:

• Explore Autumn Festivals:
• Auckland Harvest Festival (April): Pick pumpkins, enjoy hayrides at local farms like ZaberriWorld.
• Dark Sky Experiences: Stargaze at Auckland Stardome or Tawharanui Regional Park.
• Outdoor Adventures:
• Hunua Ranges: Hike the Cossey-Massey Loop (easy trails with waterfall views).
• Cornwall Park: Picnic under golden autumn leaves.
• Rainy Day Fun:
• Auckland Art Gallery: Free entry for kids; workshops during holidays.
• Escape Masters NZ: Themed escape rooms for ages 10+.

Pro Tip: Book farm stays early—regions like Matakana host autumn-themed family weekends.

2. Term 2 Holidays (Winter: July 5 – July 20)

Weather: Chilly (8°C–15°C), perfect for indoor/outdoor mix.
Top Activities:

• Matariki Celebrations:
• Auckland Domain: Free light shows, Māori storytelling, and food stalls (June–July).
• Te Ara I Whiti Festival: Interactive cultural workshops at Aotea Square.
• Winter-Friendly Outings:
• Snow Planet: Indoor skiing/snowboarding (20 mins from CBD).
• Westfield Malls: Holiday movie marathons and LEGO® workshops.
• Cozy Experiences:
• Hot Pools: Relax at Parakai Springs or Waikite Valley Thermal Pools (day trip).
• Winter Markets: La Cigale French Market (Parnell) for hot chocolate and crepes.

Pro Tip: Layer up for outdoor festivals! Check OurAuckland for free Matariki events.

3. Term 3 Holidays (Spring: September 27 – Oct 12)

Weather: Warming up (12°C–18°C), blooming gardens.
Top Activities:

• Floral Adventures:
• Auckland Cherry Blossom Festival (September): Meander through blooms at Auckland Botanic Gardens.
• Tiritiri Matangi Island: Guided tours to spot spring wildlife (kōkako, tūī).
• Active Family Fun:
• Bike the Twin Coast Cycle Trail: Day trips to Northland’s spring vistas.
• Auckland Zoo: Newborn animal encounters (spring lambing season).
• Creative Workshops:
• Clay Centre NZ: Pottery classes for teens.
• Auckland Writers Festival: Kid-friendly author sessions.

Pro Tip: Visit regional parks like Shakespear Sanctuary for wildflower walks.

4. Term 4 Holidays (Summer: Mid-Dec 2025 – Late Jan 2026)

Weather: Hot and sunny (18°C–25°C), ideal for beaches.
Top Activities:

• Beach Escapes:
• Waiheke Island: Kayak tours, vineyard picnics, and Oneroa Village markets.
• Piha Beach: Surf lessons for teens (book via Piha Surf Academy).
• Summer Events:
• Silo Park Markets: Outdoor movies and live music (CBD).
• Pasifika Festival Prep: Workshops at Otara Markets (January).
• Adventure Parks:
• Rainbow’s End: Extended holiday hours for thrill rides.
• Tree Adventures: Ziplining in Woodhill Forest.

Pro Tip: Reserve ferry tickets to Rangitoto Island early for sunrise hikes.

Year-Round Tips for Auckland School Holidays

• Budget Hacks: Use AT HOP cards for discounted public transport.
• Free Options:
• Auckland Libraries: Holiday coding workshops and book clubs.
• Regional Parks: Free entry (e.g., Long Bay, Ambury Farm).
• Last-Minute Bookings: Apps like Bookme NZ offer discounted activity deals.

FAQs