Looking for things to do with the kids these spring school holidays? Bring the whole whānau — and the dog — for an adventure through art and nature at Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, just 45 minutes north of central Auckland.
Kids Go FREE – the details
When: Weekdays during the September/October school holidays
Kids Go FREE dates: Monday 28 September–Friday 2 October and Monday 5–Friday 9 October 2026
The offer: Up to 3 kids (17 & under) go FREE with every paying adult
Adult Sculpture Trail entry: $18
Where: Brick Bay, 17 Arabella Lane, Snells Beach, Matakana Coast
Bookings: No booking required for the Sculpture Trail
Dogs: Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the Sculpture Trail and at our outdoor dining tables. Please keep them on a lead at all times.
Please note: Children must be supervised at all times.
A school holiday adventure through art and nature
If you're searching for a family day out near Auckland that gets everyone outdoors, the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail offers something a little different.
Set among native bush, peaceful lakes, vineyards and open farmland, the trail winds through the Brick Bay landscape with around 60 contemporary sculptures to discover along the way. There are works tucked among the trees, pieces reflected in the water and plenty of unexpected discoveries to keep curious young minds looking around the next corner.
It's an opportunity for kids to experience contemporary art without the usual gallery walls. They can get outside, move at their own pace, talk about what catches their eye and simply enjoy exploring.
Young Explorers wanted 🗺️
Every child receives a complimentary Young Explorers Trail Map, adding another layer of discovery to their walk.
With activities and clues to follow, tamariki can engage with the sculptures and natural environment as they make their way around the trail. It's part treasure hunt, part bush walk and part art adventure — with plenty to discover for adults along the way too.
For families with kids of different ages, that's one of the joys of Brick Bay. Younger children can enjoy the adventure of finding each sculpture, while older kids and adults can delve a little deeper into the artworks and artists.
Bring the dog too 🐾
No need to leave one member of the family at home. Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Brick Bay, so your four-legged explorer can join you on the Sculpture Trail.
Dogs need to remain on a lead, and you're also welcome to have them with you at the Glass House's outdoor tables. It makes Brick Bay a great option when you're looking for a dog-friendly family day out near Auckland or Matakana.
Make a day of it at the Glass House
Once you've finished exploring, settle in at the Glass House and enjoy views across the lake and surrounding landscape.
There's a dedicated kids' menu for hungry young explorers, while grown-ups can enjoy seasonal dishes showcasing fresh, local flavours alongside Brick Bay wines.
Restaurant bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment, particularly during the school holidays.
An Auckland school holiday day trip worth exploring
Located at Snells Beach on the Matakana Coast, Brick Bay is approximately 45 minutes north of central Auckland, making it an ideal spring school holiday day trip for Auckland families.
Whether you're looking for school holiday activities near Auckland, things to do with kids in Matakana, an outdoor family adventure, a dog-friendly day trip, or somewhere the whole family can enjoy together, Brick Bay brings art, food and nature into one memorable day out.
Kids Go FREE on weekdays from 28 September–9 October 2026. Up to 3 kids (17 & under) free with every paying adult.
Plan your school holiday adventure at brickbay.co.nz. No bookings are required for the Sculpture Trail; if you're joining us for lunch at the Glass House, bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment.
