Indoor & Rainy Day Activities for Kids on the Hibiscus Coast
A Local Family Guide for Whangaparaoa & Orewa Families
When the weather turns wet on the Coast, it doesn’t mean family time has to stop. Across Whangaparaoa, Orewa, and Silverdale, there are plenty of indoor and weather-friendly places where tamariki can play, explore, and connect, even on rainy days.
As a Whangaparaoa-based early learning centre, we often share these ideas with our Small Sprouts whanau. This guide brings together a range of indoor and rainy-day activities for kids, suitable for toddlers through to older children, whether you’re looking to burn off energy or slow things down.
Quick Guide: rainy day fun on the Hibiscus Coast
🛝 Indoor “Playgrounds” You Might Not Expect 🛝
A surprisingly popular rainy-day outing for families. The large indoor garden centre areas often provide space for children to explore, spot plants, and enjoy a change of scenery without being outdoors. Plus the bonus of being able to get some shopping done if needed!
Columbus Café Onsite – Plenty of Food Options
Warm, undercover space
Pushchair-friendly
Easy, free outing for short visits
Another local favourite for wet days. Many families enjoy a wander through the aisles, and Bunnings also runs kids’ DIY workshops on the occasional weekend.
Fully indoors
Pushchair-friendly
Small Café onsite
🎢 indoor Play Centres & Family Fun 🎢
🏰 Chipmunks Playground & Cafe - Whangapararoa
A well-known indoor playground offering climbing frames, slides, and soft-play areas, making it a reliable rainy-day option for toddlers and preschoolers.
Large purpose-built indoor play
Café onsite for parents
Suitable for a range of ages
💡 Tip: Very close by to Whangapararoa Library, Two Spoons, and At 719 Cafe.
🤸 Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre
Heated indoor pool great for toddlers and babies
Awesome splash pad through summer which the kids love
Great rainy-day activity
💡 Tip: Look out for school holiday programmes with extra fun activities!
Indoor snow fun all year round, rain or shine
Perfect for older kids and confident movers
Great for school holiday activities and family outings
💡 Tip: Snowplanet is best suited to primary-aged children. For younger tamariki, check age and height requirements before booking, and plan a shorter visit to avoid sensory overload.
🧩Indoor Challenges and Activities 🧩
An indoor escape room experience designed for families and older children who enjoy puzzles, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Fully indoors
Encourages collaboration and communication
Best suited to older tamariki and teens
💡 Parent tip: This is ideal for siblings or family groups rather than toddlers.
🎳 Hibiscus Coast Indoor Bowling & Entertainment Centre
Tenpin bowling & arcade games
Pool tables for older kids
Great for family outings & birthdays
💡 Tip: Look for family bowling deals on weekends!
🎬 HOYTS Hibiscus Coast – Whangapararoa
A comfortable and warm option for a slower-paced rainy-day outing, especially for preschoolers and school-aged children.
Family-friendly screenings
Easy parking and food nearby
Good option for low-energy day
💡 Tip: Right next to Hibiscus Coast Indoor Bowling & Entertainment Centre
📚 Libraries: Calm, Creative & Free 📚
Often Free Storytime & craft sessions
Lego clubs & interactive workshops
Great selection of children’s books
Recently renovated and a very relaxing environment.
Another excellent rainy-day option for families looking for a calm, low-pressure outing.
Have We Missed a Local Favourite?
The Hibiscus Coast is full of hidden gems. If you know of an indoor play space, café, or rainy-day activity that local families love, let us know. We’re always keen to keep this guide up to date for our community.
👉 You may also enjoy our outdoor family guide - HERE
If you’re exploring early learning options on the Hibiscus Coast, you’re welcome to visit Small Sprouts and see how we extend these values into everyday learning through play, or take a sneak peak at OUR ROOMS.
Last Updated: January 2026