This is one of the coolest pubs in Auckland for kids to enjoy. With a sandpit out back and incredible menu specials, I was pretty blown away when a local in the know took me here to wolf down my favourite meal - pizza washed down with a cold brew. There’s lots of great places and spaces to eat, drink and play and the staff don’t mind at all if the kids simply run free. Plus the decor is super-flash, but not quite as flash as the burgers they serve. They are heavenly so don’t miss ordering one and then helping to steal your mate’s fries too!

Set in a charming villa, Garnet Station owners Verity and Lisa make you feel welcome and at home, offering tasty food and beverage as well as books and toys for the young ones. A favourite for us once a month with their women-only open mic night on the first Sunday of each month.

My four-year-old twin nephews absolutely love this place! They play for hours, alternating between the small outdoor playground and the indoor play area - some days they have a bouncy castle inside the cafe! The food is divine and the coffee perfect every time.

Not only are you surrounded by an abundance of books and other parenting resources to peruse as you enjoy coffee and lunch, but you walk away feeling empowered and supported as a parent or caregiver raising kids in today’s world. The one-stop shop for all your parenting resources - from bubs to teens - and a lovely cafe to boot.

This gorgeous setting provides an outdoor play area with sand pit for the kids as you enjoy a superb brunch or lunch while they play. Very popular so get in early in the weekends. Their salmon eggs benedict is divine!