For our tamariki, it’s also where they develop and practice life skills. Unfortunately, many Kiwi kids aren't having the same playful upbringing enjoyed by previous generations. There are several reasons for this, including a lack of time, space, societal changes and an increase in screen time.
We’re visiting schools across Porirua to gain insights from tamariki on how they want to play, and what things they want to see in Porirua. And we’re bringing play to our outdoor spaces and places to bring people together and get them having fun with movement at any age.
Download our Play List for some ideas of how your whānau can play together.
Play Week Aotearoa 2025 is all about celebrating play across Aotearoa, inspiring tamariki, rangatahi and whānau to get out and have fun through play.
Play gives us freedom and chances to take risks. It’s how our tamariki build a life-long love of being active, make sense of the world around them, get creative, build friendships, and learn skills.
Be part of Play Week and watch your tamariki thrive!
Play trailer at Aotea Lagoon
Friday 03 October, 11am-12pm, the south end of Aotea Lagoon
Play trailer at Jillett Street Park
Monday 20 October, 3.30-5.30pm, Jillett Street, Titahi Bay
Play trailer at Harbour's Edge
Tuesday 21 October, 10.30am-12.30pm, Harbour's Edge, 20 Parumoana Street, Porirua City Centre
Play trailer at Postgate Park
Wednesday 22 October, 4-6pm, Postgate Park, Whitby
Lego Pop-Up with Brick Antics at City Centre Library
Thursday 23 October, 2.30-4.30pm, Children's Library at City Centre Library, Porirua City Centre
Play trailer at Aotea Lagoon
Friday 24 October, 4-6pm, the south end of Aotea Lagoon
Pop a Manu at Arena Aquatic's
Saturday 25 & Sunday 26 October, 12-4pm, Arena Aquatics, Te Rauparaha Arena, Porirua City Centre
Monday–Friday: Kindy Gym at Te Rauparaha Arena, 9.30–10.30am
Wednesday: Story World at Porirua Library, 10.30am
Thursday: Baby Band at Porirua Library, 10.30am
