All of the regular programmes for pēpi and toddlers continue during the school holidays – so bring the whole whānanu. Nōku te Ao Capital E has a dedicated play space for tamariki under five, and there’s always more to discover at Taiwhanga Tamariki | Children’s Space.
What can I do
Ngā hararei kura
School holidays
Looking for something to do these holidays? Discover school holiday programmes and activities at Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui, designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and shared experiences. There are drop-in and bookable options – and many are free.
For tamariki (5–12)
School holiday programmes give tamariki the chance to discover Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui in new ways. Book into a Makerspace session, check out Nōku te Ao Capital E, visit the gallery, or drop into something unexpected.
For rangatahi (12+)
Rangatahi can get involved in gaming sessions, creative workshops, digital media projects, and youth-focused events. School holidays here are an opportunity to connect with others, be creative, and explore on their own terms.
Holiday programmes for all ages
Drop-in spaces
Not booked into a programme? There’s still plenty to do and explore during the school holidays.
Children’s and youth book collections to browse and borrow
Makerspaces and creative activities (availability may vary)
Reading, play, and hang-out spaces across the building
Exhibitions and displays that change throughout the year
Pēpi and toddlers
Finding out what’s on
School holiday activities change each holiday period.
Plan your visit
Details about age ranges, times, cost (if any), and any booking requirements are listed with each event. If you need help during your visit, the staff at the Pae Manaaki | Manaaki Desks are happy to guide you.
Ngā pātai auau
Frequently asked questions
Yes, visit Nōku te Ao Capital E on Te Papa Waenga | Mezzanine and spend time in their play space for tamariki under 5 years of age and then pop down to Te Taiwhanga Tamariki | Children’s Space for more fun. All of the Library’s regular programmes for pēpi and toddlers continue during the school holidays. Visit our events page for specific events for tamariki under 5.
Yes, Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui includes a dedicated Te Rūma Kaitiaki | Caregivers' Room with baby changing and feeding facilities, on Te Papa Whenua | Ground, adjacent to the Taiwhanga Tamariki | Children's Event Corner.
Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui is open from 9am to 7pm on weekdays and from 9.30am to 5pm on weekends
Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui welcomes kura, early learning centres and school groups.
We offer:
- Curriculum-linked visits
- Creative learning experiences
- Access to heritage collections
- Nōku te Ao Capital E programmes
- Makerspace experiences
To plan a visit, contact the library team or the Nōku te Ao Capital E team directly.
Tūnga Waka Pēpi | Buggy parking is available on Te Papa Whenua | Ground. You can view the exact locations at Floor Maps.
Many school holiday activities are free, with some programmes charged.
Some programmes require booking, while others are drop-in. Check each event listing for details.