On Sunday, 3 March New Zealand Parliament will celebrate Te rā o ngā tamariki, Children’s Day, with a range of fun, engaging activities for the whole family.

Rt Hon Trevor Mallard, Speaker of the House, says of the celebrations, “making Parliament a more accessible and family friendly place is something that is important to me but also to the public. We want to make it clear that this is everyone’s Parliament and that families are welcome here, through initiatives like Children’s Day and also the proposed children’s playground on the Parliament front lawn. The Children’s Day event is an exciting way to encourage families to learn more about our Parliament, and to give kids the tools to use their voice to contribute to our democracy.”

What’s on

Kids in the House tours:

Families can join one of our special, free, 45 minute, child-friendly tours which run throughout the day. The tour visits all the spots where the action takes place and teaches children about how they can get involved and have their say. As part of the tour children will also receive a ‘Passport to Parliament’ which aims to enhance the tour experience for our younger visitors with a fun, engaging activity. Children can tick off the places they visit as they make their way around the Parliament buildings and get an official stamp when they’ve finished.

Outdoor tour:

Also available is our new self-guided outdoor tour. Visitors can grab a map from one of our friendly tour guides and visit all the important spots in the Parliament grounds and receive a reward!

Virtual tour:

Visitors on Children’s Day can also try out our new virtual reality tour! Put on the goggles and be guided through Parliament’s buildings from the comfort of our Visitor Centre chairs. It’s a really novel experience!

And plenty more…

Along with the above there’ll also be:

• Circus performers showcasing tricks and offering free face painting (10am-2pm)

• Activities in our Education Centre and the opportunity to take a selfie in our replica Speaker’s Chair

• An exhibition on how young people have influenced change by standing up for what they believe in

• A range of small mementos you can take home with you as a reminder of your time at Parliament.

The details:

Children’s Day at NZ Parliament

• Where: Main Entrance/Visitor Centre, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

• When: Sunday, 3 March

• Time: 9am – 4.30pm

• Tours operate approximately every 15 minutes with the first departing at 9.30am and the last departing at 4pm. Bookings are essential. For a list of times and booking information visit www.parliament.nz

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