shopping like in Auckland where are the best places to go?? We are hoping to come over either the end of October or beginning of Jan, if this helps. Search the forum for 'Tarltons', (as In Kelly Tarltons) or 'Zoo', to find a few threads with things to do with kids. I know its not glamourous but the Westfield (NZ Shopping centres) foodcourts are always an easy option for food with children when travelling around. They're all over but there is one in the CBD near the ferry and one in Albany. Weiwera hot pools (about 45 mins north of Auckland) is a great trip. they have water slides and different swimming pools. The water is naturally hot and is open on cold wet days. it could be a stop off on the way to Bay of Islands. Also in Elleslie (south Auckland) there is a place called "Extreme edge", it is a cool indoor climbing centre and they have themed kids walls. It is great because it is all weather and tires them out. Thanks! I'm really glad I stumbled upon this site. I can see already it's going to be a Godsend with our research. The help I've encountered thus far is showing Kiwis truly live up to their rep as being friendly and helpful! Now I'll just settle back, crank up my Hayley Westenra tunes and continue digging in to more useful nuggets.