School Holidays in the Hunter!

The Hunter Valley might look like more fun for adults with so many wineries, breweries and amazing restaurants, but family friendly activities are also high on the agenda! For this Summer holidays, we’ve rounded up a few activities and events to keep the kids busy.

AQUA GOLF & PUTT PUTT Enjoy some outdoor fun with Aqua Golf and Putt Putt, located just outside the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village. Play Aqua Golf and you could potentially win a prize – just hit your ball into the net! Prices for Aqua Golf are 1 Bucket $9, 2 Buckets $15. Putt Putt Golf is $6 adults, $5 kids and $20 family. Group specials of $12 pp for 1 bucket and an 18 hole round of Putt Putt is also available. Bookings aren’t required, but be aware it can get busy! Open 7 days, 9.30am–4.30pm.

HUNTER VALLEY HORSE RIDING Hunter Valley Horse Riding offers trail rides for both beginners and experienced riders – the smallest of riders can even ride the ponies with qualified guides leading the way. Other activities on offer include ATV tours, tractor hay rides to feed the animals, pedal go karts, farm animals, and mountain bike trails (byo bike). There is even a guest house on the property, where kids can stay free during school holidays (get in quick). For more information visit www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY The Inflatable Factory – Until Wednesday January 8 Discover a variety of jumping castles, obstacle courses and inflatables thanks to Megamania Playland. The event runs daily, 11am–4pm plus Friday nights 5pm–8pm. Prices range from $10 to $145 – for more information visit www.ticketebo.com.au/megamania-playland UV Glow Kids Dance Party – Saturday January 4 Dance the night away at Crowne Plaza’s special UV Dance Party! Get creative with UV body paints and watch as they come alive under the disco lights. The event runs 5.30pm–6.30pm, and tickets are $15 pp (parental supervision required for children under 8 years). To book, email events.hunter@ihg.com Wizards and Witchcraft’ Lego Interaction – Tuesday January 14 If you're a fan of wizardry, come along and build your own magical kingdom inspired by the world of Harry Potter with the team at Bricks 4 Kidz, 4pm–6pm. Tickets are $15 pp/$50 family (2 adults and 2 kids). To book, email events.hunter@ihg.com. Wild Australia Wildlife Show – Saturday January 25 Meet a new furry friend as the team from Hunter Valley Zoo present a special wildlife show featuring some of Australia’s most loved animals. Fun and educational, learn more about these amazing creatures and their crazy Australian habitat. The event runs 5.30pm–6.30pm, with tickets $15 pp or $50 family (2 adults and 2 kids). To book, email events.hunter@ihg.com.

HUNTER VALLEY ZOO If you can’t make it to Crowne Plaza’s Wildlife Show event above, you can always visit Hunter Valley Zoo, as it will be open every day during the school holidays (usually Thurs–Tues). With keeper talks, animal encounters and of course so many different animals to see, the kids (and adults) will love it! Tickets are $29 (adults); $25 (concession) and $15 (children 3-15 years), with children 2 and under free. Visit www.huntervalleyzoo.com.au for more information.

THE ANIMAL FUN CONTINUES Starline Alpacas in Broke welcomes day visitors to get up close with their alpacas, chickens and sheep! You can even buy buckets of alpaca feed from reception for just $10. Don't forget to visit their shop before you leave. Find them at 1100 Milbrodale Road, Broke. Phone 6579 1081. www.starlinealpacas.com.au

FOR THE SWEET TOOTH Head to Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village for a bite to eat. Cupcake Espresso and the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company will provide the perfect sweet treat to enjoy, plus you'll also find gelato at Oscars! You also won't be able to pass The British Lolly Shop with two life-sized toy British soldiers guarding the entrance.

FOR THE OLDER KIDS Hunter Resort have both Segway Tours and Electric Bike Hire available through The Adventure Centre. Segway Tours are for kids 11 and up, and to ride the bikes you must be 14 and up. For more information visit www.huntervalley.com.au