A total thrill. Great way to experience the famous Kiwi jetboat invention in the big city. See the harbour you know so well in a different light, and at a different speed. The 360 degree turns left us all drenched, laughing and screaming for more.

Everyone’s chance to drive their very own segway, and not on the flat either. Laugh your way all the way up Northead and back. Great views and an exhilerating if not slightly mad experience.

Specialising in creative ways to serve chocolate meals this desert boutique is a sweet tooth’s dream. Great for group outings. Beware the sugar rush later.

What better exposure to vinyl , fan t.shirts, cool gifts and genuine music culture?

Pick the comedian for appropriate material, but who doesn’t like a good laugh and what better way to experience live performance in an intimate setting than Auckland’s home of laughter.

A North Shore treasure. The passion of owner, Maria, has inspired many children to read for a lifetime, including my own. Just walk in and brief her on the child you are buying for and she will surprise and delight you with many informative, new books suggestions. She takes time, and she is always spot on.

Named after the Lewis Carroll book - this has got to be one of the best business names in Auckland. Great suburban bookshop with a very convenient kids corner complete with toys - fantastic when your chlldren aren't in a book browsing mood and you are.

An Auckland institution. The place I always head to when I need a birthday party gift fast - extensive, high quality preschool, primary school and young adult book ranges as well as audio books and a select range of quality toys. The gift wrapping is a lifesaver.

Not technically a pure chidlren’s bookshop but this legendary independent bookstore is worth mentioning due to the quaint dedicated room for children at the back, the quality of its slection and the fact it is open until 9pm every night. Buy your books then head out for coffee. Cafes stay open late in Mt Eden Village too. Very European, only local.

Not a pure children’s bookshop but worth mentioning for books that help children overcoming personal issues. From bullying and body image, to puberty and grieving, The Women’s Bookshop has quality selection of books dealing with harder topics in clever creative ways for children and youth. Just what you’d expect from founder, feminist and fab content finder Carol Beau.