5 ways you can spend time with the kids, plus a bonus tip for parents to SAVE MONEY in 2025.
Mother’s day, Father’s Day — well, did you know that there is also a Children’s Day? This year, it’s taking place on March 2nd. In honour of the day, it would be special to spend time with the kiddos in your life. Having quality time with your children is a great way to show them love and will have them feeling prioritised and considered. You don’t have to spend money on it!Â
We have rounded up 5 fun things to do with the kids. We also have a bonus tip for parents who are wanting to save money this year so they can spend more time with their children, with a little less stress.Â
1. Movie Night
There is nothing better than snuggling up on the couch and enjoying a movie night together. Don’t forget to prepare the snacks. Turn on the popcorn maker and make some sodas earlier in the day so they can cool down in the fridge. Choose a fun family friend movie or TV show to stream. This can be a great way to unwind and spend time with the kids!
Parents, be sure to check that you are on the right fibre speed for video streaming! You can check what speed your house should be on by using our broadband speed calculator, which will tell you the speed you need based on your online activities and the number of devices you have at home. If you are not quite on the right speed, it’s a good idea to compare and switch to a better plan. Jump on Broadband Compare and compare different plans that match the speed you need so you can avoid either slow internet, or paying for more than you need. Comparing broadband plans available to you will ensure you can make a fully informed choice and get a better value deal.
2. Picnic at the Park
Grab the picnic basket and fill it with goodies. Yummy drinks, crackers and dip, fruit, and perhaps some pastries. Whatever your heart desires. Take the kids to your local park or beach for a budget-friendly day-out together. Your kids will love playing on the playground or building sandcastles, and it requires very little spending for those looking to save money.Â
3. Mini Road Trip
If you’d like to branch out from your local area, consider jumping in the car and embarking on a mini road trip for the day. You don’t have to go too far. You can pack your lunch or stop off along the road to grab a Kiwi classic pie or another favourite. Road trips are a great way to explore somewhere new with the kids and encourage them to grow a love for their environment.Â
4. Bake Treats
Baking is an ideal rainy day activity! You could combine baking with a movie night, too. Decide in advance what you’d like to bake, so you can make sure you have all the supplies and ingredients. Check you have all the right cookware and tools. The kids will love learning how to make their favourite treats from scratch!
5. Visit Local Zoo or Museum
Spend the day at your local zoo or museum. This is a wonderful way to enrich your kids, help them learn about nature, history, and our world. If you live in Auckland, you can visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum for free. This historical building houses a unique collection of Maori and Pacific artifacts and tells the story of Aotearoa.Â
If you are a Wellingtonian, visit the Wellington Zoo for a fun day out with the kids. Encounter unique and special animals from all over the world such as the capybara, dingo, golden lion tamarin, and the blue-tongued skink.Â
Bonus Money Saving Tip for Parents: Compare Your Bills!
One of the most effective ways to save money in 2025 is to compare your bills. And no, it doesn’t have to be an hours-long task! Here at NZ Compare, we are all about helping Kiwis make better decisions with the money, ultimately helping them to save money. Our user-friendly comparison platforms make it easy and quick to compare your broadband, power, mobile, and other finances such as insurances, mortgages, and personal loans.
Comparing household bills comes with a range of key benefits, including saving money. Empower yourself to make a fully informed choice about where your money goes, and take just a few minutes to compare your bills. Our platforms are free to use, bias-free, and hassle-free, and they are designed to help you find a better deal so you can unlock savings. Why pay more, when you can pay less, and smile a little more this year! You got this.Â