Eye on Nature Creative Arts Exhibition

The Auckland Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre fills with artwork made by South and East Auckland kindergarten and primary school students during this free school-holiday exhibition. Hosted by the Beautification Trust, the works all respond to this year's theme – Ka tipu tahi taatou, Together We Grow – with tamariki exploring ideas around caring for te taiao, connecting with community, and building a healthier environment.

Families can take their time moving through the displays and cast a vote in the People's Choice award, choosing the artwork that speaks to them most. It is a genuinely engaging reason to linger.

The gardens themselves offer plenty of room to roam once the exhibition is done – worth packing a picnic and making a full afternoon of it.