One option to keep youngsters active and entertained is joining a holiday programme.
Lakes Leisure has put together a two-week programme with activities such as sport and games, art and crafts, pool visits, movie days and an Earnslaw cruise.
The programme runs on weekdays from tomorrow until Friday next week.
Different themes for each day are planned for those aged 5 to 7 and for seniors, aged 8 to 12.
The two groups can take 40 children, given a maximum ratio of 10 children per staff member.
Lakes Leisure recreation co-ordinator Alana Talbot said spaces were still available on most days.
"The days where we visit the Alpine Aqualand seem to be the most popular days so far, and the Earnslaw cruise is also well booked.
But we still have room for more children, who can be signed up on the day," Ms Talbot said.
The 8.30am-3.30pm programme costs $22 for juniors and $25 for seniors, with a surcharge for some activities.
Late sessions from 3.30pm to 5.10pm cost another $10.
The programme is Oscar-accredited, making it eligible for subsidies through Work and Income New Zealand.
Ms Talbot encouraged parents to apply for this subsidy.
The X-IT Youth Centre caters for the older children with a two-week autumn holiday programme for 12 to 20-year-olds.
The centre will be open on weekdays from tomorrow until next Friday from 1pm to 6pm for young people to be with friends and enjoy amusements.
Those activities are free, but paid activities are planned for some days and must be booked.
On Wednesday, the children will head to Strikebowl for tenpin bowling followed by a movie.
This Friday there will be an adventure trip with Ziptrek Tours.
Tuesday of next week is the day for a trip with Kawarau Jet, followed by a movie.
For the final special activity, the youngsters will be able to try out their courage and skills with a round of paintball on Thursday next week.
