Looking for summer fun that won’t break the bank?
Local boards invest in free activities and great things to see and do and Hibiscus and Bays is no exception.
Think beach days, outdoor adventures, creative workshops, local festivals and plenty of ways to get active and enjoy summer - the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board has got you covered.
Whether you’re a family, a group of mates, a keen creative, or a senior wanting to try something new, there’s something to help everyone make the most of long, sunny summer days.
1. Join the fun with free Out & About activities
Out & About Auckland brings a full line-up of free outdoor activities to local parks, tailored for all ages.
This year includes the first-ever Give It a Go series for seniors in Browns Bay, offering low-impact and social sessions throughout February and March. Try walking football, yoga, pilates, dance and balance classes; a perfect way to stay active and meet others.
Families can enjoy Adventurous Nature Play at Sherwood Reserve on 14 February, 9am–1pm, a hands-on session guided by Craft Lab and Barefooted NZ introducing kids to the joy of nature-based play.
Beach lovers can unwind at Beach Yoga, held 7 March, 9–10am at Stanmore Bay Beach with Mignon Opmeer. This gentle, all-abilities flow connects movement with the calming rhythm of the ocean.
For updates, follow Out & About Auckland on Facebook.
2. Make a splash at leisure centres
Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre has something for everyone, from splash-happy kids to swimmers, gym-goers and social sports fans.
Kids can enjoy the learner’s pool and splash pad, while adults take on lap swimming or relax in the spa. Indoors, there are group fitness classes, a gym and plenty of casual or organised sports on the courts.
At East Coast Bays Leisure Centre in Browns Bay, locals flock to the indoor courts for basketball and badminton, or sign up for group fitness and gym sessions. It’s an easy way to try something new, stay active and enjoy time with friends or whānau.
Find out more about Auckland pools and leisure centres.
3. Get creative at Mairangi Arts and Estuary Arts centres
Feed your creative side with exhibitions, workshops and classes for all ages.
The Hibiscus and Bays Art Studio Trail returns 20–22 February 2026, offering three days to explore 25 local art studios, meet artists and watch them at work.
Mairangi Arts Centre’s Pop up! Cash & Carry Exhibition runs 21 February–7 March 2026, featuring a wide range of affordably priced artworks ready for instant purchase.
Learn more about Mairangi Arts Centre and Estuary Arts Centre.
4. Life is good at the beach
From swimming to picnics to playgrounds, Hibiscus and Bays’ coastline shines in summer.
Ōrewa Beach is ideal for long strolls, sandcastles and safe swimming. The reserve includes playgrounds, exercise gear and a volleyball court. Nearby, Te Ara Tahuna Path loops around the estuary, perfect for walking, running or cycling.
Stanmore Bay offers playgrounds, sports fields, a skatepark, public toilets, a boat ramp and a swimming pontoon — everything needed for a full beach day.
Browns Bay Reserve features a playground, skate park, boardwalk and spacious greens overlooking the sea.
Check the Safeswim website for water quality updates and explore more parks and outdoor spots via the council website at Find a park or beach.
5. Celebrate summer at community festivals
Festival season is in full swing across Hibiscus and Bays.
Ōrewa hosts the Rodders Beach Festival 24–26 January 2026, celebrating classic cars, family activities and entertainment.
The Boulevard Arts Fiesta returns 21 February 2026, filling Ōrewa with colour, creativity and entertainment.
In Browns Bay, Summer Spectacular on 1 March 2026 brings families together with beachside activities and performances.
Then on 15 March 2026, Mairangi Bay comes alive for the Food and Wine Festival with live music, food trucks and local wine.
The season wraps with Surf Sounds on 28 March 2026 with fireworks and live music on the Ōrewa shoreline.
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