The origins of Recreate NZ lie in Tāmaki Makaurau, launching over 20 years ago in 2002. Our Head Office and youth space is located at 630c Great South Road in Ellerslie.
Enjoy browsing our collection of programmes for your region below. Click on all the age categories you belong to on the left, with programmes displayed on the right.
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Friday 13th December
9am – 4pm
We will be going to Sheep World to show some love to our woolly friends and then back to Recreate for some fluffy crafts.
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Wednesday 18th December
9am – 4pm
Gear up for a thrilling day at Auckland Adventure Park! With rides, attractions, and adrenaline-pumping fun, this is the perfect playground for adventurers!
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Thursday 19th December
9am – 4pm
Ice cream and swimming, what more could you ask for on a hot summer’s day. Join us for a fun day with friends.
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Thursday 16th January
9am – 4pm
Join us for a fun Disney inspired day. We will head to the cinema to see“Mufasa: The Lion King”. We’ll also get creative with Disney inspired crafts.
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Friday 17th January
9am – 4pm
We are headed to the Auckland Zoo to experience the African Safari and the Asian Jungle all in one place! Join us on an adventure to observe the animal kingdom then come back to Recreate for a movie.
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Thursday 23rd January
9am – 4pm
Ahoy mateys! Let’s sail away to Treasure Island mini golf and do treasure hunt. Hopefully we find some real gold!
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Friday 24th January 2025
9am – 4pm
Make a splash at Water world! With slides, pools, and water adventures, this is the ultimate place to cool down and dive into fun.
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Saturday 22nd February
9am – 1pm
We’re off to meet the animals at Kiwi Valley Farm. There’s a nursery shed to see the baby animals, tractor rides and a maze for us to explore. Come and join us for a fun filled day at the farm!
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3pm, Friday 7th March – 3pm, Sunday 9th March
Getaway for the ultimate relaxation and seaside adventures. With endless coastal beauty and hidden gems to discover, Omaha offers the perfect retreat for those seeking a mix of calm and excitement.
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Saturday 15th March
10am – 3pm
The Warkworth A&P Lifestyle Show is an event not to be missed. At the A&P show you can expect a fun day of local entertainment, carnival rides, crafts, food and of course animals.
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3pm, Friday 28th March – 3pm, Sunday 30th March
Calling all thrill Seekers and explorers for this weekend in Waitomo! We will explore the Waitomo Caves, zipline through the trees, and have some caveman fun!
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Monday 9th December
9am – 4pm
Ready to race to the top and scale to new heights? We are going rock climbing!
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Tuesday 10th December
9am – 4pm
Are you the next Recreate Ninja Warrior? Join us for a fun day at Ninja Valley Hamilton where we’ll experience what it is like to be a Ninja Warrior obstacle.
*Southern meeting option available
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Wednesday 11th December
9am – 4pm
We’ll be heading to the Hunua Ranges to experience the amazing Hunua falls. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and a sweet treat on the way home.
*Southern meeting option available
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Thursday 12th December
9am – 4pm
Get ready to bring your A-game! Join us for an action-packed day of sports, teamwork, and fun competitions. Whether you're a pro or a rookie, it's all about having a blast!
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Friday 13th December
9am – 4pm
Got a keen interest in aircrafts? Let’s learn about them at Ardmore’s Aviation Museum, watch them take off from the airport, and even watch Disney’s Planes movie.
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Monday 16th December
9am – 4pm
Bowl down the ten pins and then the wickets in our bowling and ball games holiday programme!
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Tuesday 17th December
9am – 4pm
This is a Recreate favourite. We’ll be heading to Parakai to enjoy the thermal pools, waterslide, and a BBQ lunch.
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Wednesday 18th December
9am – 4pm
Just one week ‘til Christmas so let’s get crafty! We will make Christmas decorations and bake some festive cookies – yum!
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Thursday 19th December
9am – 4pm
Make waves at Mission Bay! Dive into a world of water slides, splash zones, and endless aquatic fun at Waterworld. The ultimate summer splash adventure awaits!
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Wednesday 8th January
9am – 4pm
Join us for a chill day filled with frosting and fun! We are going to bake some sweet treats and scrumptious snacks then have some fun with a board game showdown!
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Thursday 9th January
9am – 4pm
Let’s escape to the lavender farm. You’ll immerse your senses in the soothing aroma of lavender fields. Find tranquility, create memories, and relax in nature's embrace.
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Friday 10thJanuary
9am – 4pm
Takeon the thrill of the high ropes! Conquer towering obstacles, swing through theair, and challenge yourself to reach new heights. It’s an adrenaline-packedadventure that will test your balance, courage, and teamwork!"
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Monday 13thJanuary
9am – 4pm
It’s time to get on your creativity hat, join us for a fun day of baking treats, and dancing to beats!
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Tuesday 14th January
9am – 4pm
Calling all thrill seekers! Join us for a day of excitement and unforgettable memories. From heart-pounding rollercoasters to fun rides, there’s something for everyone!
*This is a Youth and Young Adults programme so there will be participants from both age groups
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Wednesday 15th January
9am – 4pm
Bowling, a Recreate favourite, followed by a BBQ and afternoon of relaxation at the beach. This will be an awesome day with friends.
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Thursday 16th January
9am– 4pm
Paddle into adventure with Waka Ama! Team up, conquer the water, and ride the waves in this exhilarating outrigger canoeing experience.
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Friday 17th January
9am– 4pm
Kick back, relax, and dive into a movie marathon! Enjoy a day of big-screen favourites,comfy seats, and popcorn-packed fun.
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Monday 20th January
9am – 4pm
If you have lots of energy, this is the programme for you! Join us for a day of activity at the Trampoline park and dancing Zumba.
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Tuesday 21st January
9am– 4pm
Soak up the sun and dive into the surf at our ultimate beach day! Sand, sea, and summer vibes – it’s the perfect day out!
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Tuesday 21st January – Friday 24th January
Attention all campers! We will be heading to the Blue Mountain Adventure Centre for our January Youth Camp. Located in the centre of the North Island and surrounded by the stunning Tongariro national park it’s set to be an awesome adventure. We will go rafting, do high ropes courses, teambuilding, talent shows and much more. We will also be joined by our friends in Wellington!
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Wednesday 22nd January
9am – 4pm
Bounce on into New Zealand’s biggest indoor inflatable playground! We’ve got a super fun, energy-filled day lined up for you.
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Thursday 23rd January
9am – 4pm
Explore the scenic beauty of Wenderholm National Park and unwind with a BBQ feast by the water. Nature, food, and fun all rolled into one!
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Friday 24th January
9am – 4pm
Hey there nature lovers! Travel with us down south to explore the serene Hamilton Gardens, smell the roses, soak up the sun, and get lots of fresh air.
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2pm, Friday 21st February – 3pm, Sunday 23rd February
Pack your togs and come along with us to Lake Taupō for a summery weekend! We will visit Huka Falls, De Bretts Hot Springs, and explore everything Lake Taupō has to offer.
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Friday 7th – Sunday 9th March
We are heading back to Whangarei to visit the Adrenaline Adventure Park, NZ’s largest inflatable waterpark. Our accommodation in Whangarei Heads has beautiful views of the ocean. A weekend of excitement and relaxation not to be missed.
*Lifejackets are provided, but a good level of fitness and swimming ability is recommended.
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Friday 21st March – Sunday 23rd March
Join us at a classic Recreate spot in the beautifulAlgies Bay! We will pop in to see the donkeys, have some tasty treats and headto the popular Sculptereum. The perfect relaxing break away from the city.
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Monday 14th April – Thursday 17th April
This April, we are returning to a Recreate favourite… Motutapu Island! After a boat trip to this amazing location, we will engage in an action-packed few days filled with high ropes, kayaking, rock climbing, archery and our legendary Youth Camp Talent Show of course!
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Recreate NZ facilitates Moxie Employment placements with businesses that share our values. The aim is to carefully match Moxie trainees with suitable employers and facilitate a training period that results in permanent, part time employment.
Moxie Employment achieves success because trainees already participate in other Recreate NZ programmes, allowing facilitators to deeply understand individuals—including their strengths and challenges—and can confidently advocate to employers. In some instances, we may suggest you attend other programmes that will support learning in specific skill areas as well as giving us time to get to know you better.
We have seen great success in the past few years and are very keen to keep growing this exciting and dynamic employment stream. Moxie Employment placements are arranged with employers as opportunities arise. Employers are then matched with appropriate trainees based on interests, skill, location, and shift times. We will do our best to find work for all who are interested, but suggest you continue your own investigations too.
Please note, we cannot guarantee immediate work placements. Moxie Employment is arranged with employers as opportunities arise. Placements are then matched with appropriate trainees based on interests, skill, location, and shift times.
If you are registered with Recreate NZ and would like to express interest in employment opportunities, please get in touch with the Moxie team, moxie@recreate.org.nz.
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June/July School Holidays
Expression of Interest
Would you be interested in an escape from Auckland as we venture to the mighty South Island? We will be flying into Christchurch and embarking on an epic 4-day road trip to explore what Aotearoa has to offer! We will be visiting Aoraki/Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo and more, with a mix of active endeavours and relaxing activities. More information to come!
Please send a booking request to show your interest.
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Expression of Interest
We are keen to use the development of Recreate’s back courtyard and garden as a Moxie learning experience for those of you developing your work skills. This will involve brainstorming landscape ideas, working with corporate volunteer groups, suppliers and supporters to renovate the existing back garden area into a more usable space. Please send a booking request to show your interest!
If you have any ideas or suggestions of corporate support, please let us know at moxie@recreate.org.nz
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Friday 6th December – Monday 9th December
Let’s take a break from the pre-Christmas hustle and bustle and head down to Lake Taupō. We will be staying in the stunning Kinloch area, exploring all Taupō has to offer as well as spending a day in Rotorua!
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Monday 9th December
9am– 4pm
West is best! Show your skills in a day of exciting sports and team challenges. It’s all about friendly competition, laughter, and high-energy fun!
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Tuesday 10th December
9am-2pm
Waiau Pa Garden & Orchard
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Thursday 12th December
9am – 4pm
Yummy, yummy in my tummy! Who doesn’t love strawberries and ice cream? Join us for a fun time at Good Planet.
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Friday 13th December 9am-4pm
Product Making
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Monday 16th December
9am – 4pm
Discover the beauty of the Waitakere Ranges on a scenic hike! Explore lush rainforests, stunning views, and hidden gems as you connect with nature.
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Tuesday 17th December
9am-4pm
Kumeu Orchard
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Thursday 19th December
9am – 4pm
Let’s see how many beautiful waterfalls we can find in the beautiful Tamaki Makaurau. We will do some hiking and picnic the day away.
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Tuesday 7th January
9am-2pm
Waiau Pa Garden & Orchard
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Thursday 9th January
9am-4pm
Product Making
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Monday 13th January
9am – 4pm
Practice your swing at the driving range, then chill out with a movie marathon. It's the perfect mix of active fun and relaxation!
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Wednesday 15th January
9am-4pm
Kumeu Orchard
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Thursday 16th January
9am – 4pm
Let’s be farmers for a day! We will be heading to the strawberry farm for some juicy goodness, and then to the animal farm to pet some furry friends.
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Monday 20th January
9am – 4pm
Explore the stunning Muriwai Beach, it’s hikes, and the gannet colony. We will have some fun playing beach games and having friendly competitions.
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Tuesday 21st January
9am-2pm
Waiau Pa Garden & Orchard
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Thursday 23rd January
9am – 4pm
Set on the eastern end of the Peninsula, this park boasts some of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches, bays, and native coastal forest. Join us for a fun day of exploration and relaxation.
*West-based programme, no Ellerslie meeting option.
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Thursday 24th January
9am-4pm
Product Making
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Wednesday 29th January
9am-4pm
Kumeu Orchard
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Saturday 2nd February
11am – 6pm
Rotoroa Island is a native bird and tree sanctuary just an hour ferry ride from Auckland City. It’s a place where curious explorers can go on beautiful walks, visit peaceful beaches and maybe see a kiwi.
*Good level of fitness is recommended. Pick up and drop off will be from Auckland CBD.
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Tuesday 4th February
9am-2pm
Waiau Pa Garden & Orchard
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Wednesday 5th February
9am-4pm
Product Making
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Sunday 16th February
9am – 4pm
Hit home runs at the batting cages, then refuel with delicious homemade burgers. Swing for the fences and satisfy your appetite with this winning combo!
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Tuesday's 9:00am-4:00pm
18th February – 8th April (8 Weeks)
Help us grow goodness in the Moxie garden! We will travel south to mow, dig, sow, tend and harvest produce for the Our Harvest kitchen. There is a focus on practical skill development, health and safety awareness, working in a team, building resilience and focus, interpersonal skills, and other personal strengths relevant to your journey towards greater community contribution.
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Tuesdays 9am-4pm,
18th February – 8th April (8Weeks)
A self-directed fun day each week! As a group we will plan a term of awesome activities. We’ll be focusing on forming friendships, having fun, and learning how to organise our social lives. Come and discover some new fun with us!
*Please note the location for this programme is our Massey premise.
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Tuesdays 9am-4pm,
18th February – 8th April (8 Weeks)
Life Skills is a self-directed course where we come together as a group, supported by our Recreate facilitator, to create a programme focusing on your goals. We cover a variety of practical skills such as cooking, fitness and public transport. Life Skills is all about gaining more independence and living a happy and healthy life.
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Wednesday's 9:00am-4:00pm
19th February – 9th April(8 Weeks)
This group enjoys being physical in the outdoors maintaining the Moxie orchard. We use power equipment e.g., push mower, ride-on, weed-eater etc., to build competence in skilled work over time. There is a focus on practical skill development, health and safety awareness, working in a team, building resilience and focus, interpersonal skills, and other personal strengths relevant to your journey towards greater community contribution.
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Wednesdays 9am – 4pm
19th February – 9th April 2025 (8 weeks)
Our cooking and healthy eating midweek focuses on cooking basics, kitchen hygiene and nutrition. Together we will plan and budget, buy ingredients, and cook a nutritious meal to enjoy while learning the importance of a healthy diet and kitchen hygiene.
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Wednesdays 9am-4pm,
19th February – 9th April (8 Weeks)
A self-directed fun day each week! As a group we will plan a term of awesome activities. We’ll be focusing on forming friendships, having fun, and learning how to organise our social lives. Come and discover some new fun with us!
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Thursdays 9:00am-4:00pm
20th February – 10th April(8 Weeks)
Help us turn the fruit and vegetables grown in the Moxie garden/orchard into delicious preserves for the Our Harvest social enterprise - Growing Goodness Together. We will develop kitchen skills, following instructions in sequence, kitchen safety, production skills and working collaboratively in a team as part of your journey towards greater community contribution.
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Thursdays 9am – 4pm
20th February – 10thApril 2025 (8 weeks)
On the Move is all about living an active and healthy life! This Life Skills module focuses on learning healthy habits and having fun getting active. This may include martial arts, dancing, or trampolining. Each new activity will give our young people a chance to discover interests that lead them into a sustainable active lifestyle.
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Thursdays 9am-4pm
20th February – 10th April (8 Weeks)
On the Move is all about living an active and healthy life! This Life Skills module focuses on learning healthy habits and having fun getting active. This may include martial arts, dancing, or trampolining. Each new activity will give our young people a chance to discover interests that lead them into a sustainable active lifestyle.
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Friday 21st February – Sunday 23rd February
A weekend filled with laughs, fun, and … horse riding! We will stay in beautiful Ruakākā and head to Waipu for the day for an amazing horse trek! Animal lovers will not want to miss this weekend.
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Tuesday 25th February
5pm– 9pm
Sunsets and singalongs! Join the girls for a nice evening at the beach. We’ll pack our basket, picnic blankets, and speaker, then head to the bays for dinner with a view.
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Saturday 1st March
5pm-9pm
A Recreate NZ night market with a twist! This is a night to celebrate the entrepreneurs among us. Come along and find unique handmade treasure and share a delicious street food dinner together.
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Friday 7th March
5pm-9pm
Hola! Get out your colourful ponchos and sombreros as we welcome you to Casa Recreate. We will be transported to sunny Mexico as we take part in fun Mexican-themed games and have a delicious taco bar for dinner!
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Saturday 8th March
10:30am – 5:30pm
We’ll do some crafts and games in the morning before heading out to the Civic to see the sensational musical SIX. Don’t miss out on this amazing HERstoric performance!
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Sunday 9th March
9am-4pm
Experience the spirit of the Pacific as we head to Pasifika Festival at Western Springs. Culture, food and performances are allon offer as well as a trip next door to MOTAT for some interactive Pasifika workshops.
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Friday 14th March
5pm – 9pm
An evening escape. Could that be an evening dinner out? A trip to the theatre maybe? Who knows….. some cryptic clues, for a cryptic night. Do you dare to join us on this mysterious surprise evening? Don’t forget to bring your thinking cap….. you’ll need it!
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Saturday 15th March
9am– 4pm
Dress up in your best dresses and glass slippers as we have a princess themed day. We will enjoy elegant high tea at the Wintergarden Cafe and do some fun crafts. Promise you’ll be home by midnight!
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Sunday 16th March
9am – 4pm
Hit the water and master the art of paddle boarding! Glide across the water and enjoy the thrill of balancing fun with breathtaking views.
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Thursday 27th March
5pm – 9pm
Delicious food and bowling, the perfect combination. For this urban we will be heading to the Henderson Night Markets to enjoy food from different cultures. Then we’ll head to PINS for bowling.
*Drop off and pick up from our Massey office. Dinner will be purchased by Recreate at the market.
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Friday 28th March – Sunday 30th March
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s Recreate! Come and join us down in Rotorua for a whizzy weekend as we take to ziplining and other adrenaline pumping activities. Only thrill seekers to apply!
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Friday 4th April
5pm– 9pm
Dance your way around the world! Experience exciting rhythms and moves from different cultures in a night of global dance and non-stop energy!
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Sunday 6th April
9am – 4pm
Join us for a wild and wonderful Safari Sunday! Explore the amazing world of creatures big and small, meet furry friends, learn fascinating facts, and unleash your creativity with fun crafts. Bring your curiosity and let the adventure begin!
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Saturday 12th April
1pm-8pm
Are you a rugby lover? Maybe the Blues biggest fan? Come along and show your support as we head to Eden Park to back our Blues as they take on Moana Pacific. Go the Blues!!!
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Monday 9th December
9am– 4pm
Tee off on a fun mini-golf adventure, then cool down with a breathtaking visit to nearby waterfalls. It’s a day of friendly competition and nature’s beauty!
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Tuesday 10th December
9am – 4pm
Do you need a new dedicated ice-cream bowl at home? Get creative with ceramic painting. You will be able to paint your ceramic of choice and collect it later to take home!
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Wednesday 11th December
9am – 4pm
Let’s escape to the lavender farm. You’ll immerse your senses in the soothing aroma of lavender fields. Find tranquility, create memories, and relax in nature's embrace.
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Thursday 12th December
9am – 4pm
Get ready to bring your A-game! Join us for an action-packed day of sports, teamwork, and fun competitions. Whether you're a pro or a rookie, it's all about having a blast!
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Monday 16th December
9am – 4pm
Unleash your inner artist at our pottery workshop! Shape, mold, and create yourown clay masterpiece in this hands-on, creative experience.
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Tuesday 17th December
9am – 4pm
This is a Recreate favourite. We’ll be heading to Parakai to enjoy the thermal pools, waterslide, and a BBQ lunch.
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Monday 13th January
9am – 4pm
Pick the juiciest strawberries straight from the farm, then cool down with some delicious ice cream. It’s a berry sweet day you don’t want to miss!
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Tuesday 14th January
9am – 4pm
Calling all thrill seekers! Join us for a day of excitement and unforgettable memories. From heart-pounding rollercoasters to fun rides, there’s something for everyone!
*This is a Youth and Young adult programme so there will be participants from both age groups
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Wednesday 15thJanuary
9am – 4pm
Bowling, a Recreate favourite, followed by a BBQ and afternoon of relaxation at the beach. This will be an awesome day with friends.
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Monday 20th January
9am – 4pm
On this day, we will visit the Auckland Museum to explore their ‘Blood suckers’ exhibit and more. Then we will have an afternoon of movies at Recreate.
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Tuesday 21st January
9am – 4pm
Paddle into adventure with Waka Ama! Team up, conquer the water, and ride thewaves in this exhilarating outrigger canoeing experience.
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Wednesday 22nd January
9am – 4pm
Join us for a relaxing day in Takapuna. We will chill by the beach, stroll the shops and maybe indulge in a sweet treat.
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2.30pm, Friday 28th February 2:30pm – 3pm, Sunday 2nd March
Lazy beach days don’t come better than this. Join us for an easy breezy weekend in a bach just 100m from the beach near Waipu. Sandy feet, ocean air and gorgeous views will be the features of this relaxing weekend on the coast.
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Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd March
Embark on a three-day journey to a stunning destination where the ocean takes centre stage. From marine wonders to scenic exploration, Leigh offers a unique blend of discovery and relaxation.
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Thursday 30th January
6pm – 9pm
We are getting together for a lovely, social dinner out on the town in Auckland. Join us for good food and great company!
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Saturday 15th February
4:30pm – 9:30pm
During this evening we have the opportunity to check out all the colours, festivities and entertainment of the Rainbow Parade for Auckland Pride. If this sounds like you, dress in your most colourful attire and be ready to have fun.
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Saturday 12th April
9am – 4pm
Come and discover a dynamic exhibition of sculptures set amongst some stunning nature. We will then head out to enjoy some lunch together!
We love our vans, they help us make all our fun and engaging programmes happen!
Stevie features a boot cage, very handy for long trips. Stevie is named after our long-serving rental vehicle provider in Auckland.
Our youngest in our Auckland fleet, Lindsay is named after the very generous Lindsay Foundation.
Freckles is named after the Frecklington family, who helped in partially funding this van
Our longest serving van in Auckland, Sylvia is named after her silver colour. Generously funded by ASB Community Trust in 2013.
You must have joined Recreate NZ before making a booking request.Not a member yet? Join Recreate NZ.