Looking for something fun and a little different to do these school holidays?

Head down to Te Papa o Ngā Manu Porotakataka at Mount Maunganui on Wednesday, April 23 and Thursday, April 24, where you can give curling a go — no experience needed!

Running from 10am to 5pm, this free event is open to all ages, making it the perfect outing for families, friends, or even a group of workmates looking for a bit of friendly competition and banter.

“We’ve been running curling for adults through corporate functions for a few years now,” curling coordinator Robin De Goeij said.

“We had the idea to open it up to kids too, using lighter curling stones. We recently held a similar event in Hamilton, and it was a huge hit — parents and kids loved playing together, like a fun twist on going bowling.”

While the activity is suitable for children aged seven and up, it’s something everyone can enjoy. Players compete on their own dedicated lanes, trying their hand at a sport which De Goeij said they’ve likely only seen on television during the Olympics.

The game is played on a 9x6 metre artificial rink, imported from the Netherlands and made of synthetic ice — think of it like a large, slippery white chopping board. No ice skates are needed, and shoe covers are provided to help keep the surface clean.

Curling at Mount Maunganui will take place from 10am – 5pm, Wednesday April 23 and Thursday April 24 at Te Papa o Ngā Manu Porotakataka. Curling is for all ages. Photo/Supplied.

“The beauty of curling is that everyone starts at the same level,” said De Goeij. “Whether it’s kids or adults at a corporate team-building event, it’s always a lot of fun. And yes — it can get quite competitive!”

Each session kicks off with a quick explanation of the rules, then it’s game on — with music playing and each match lasting around 15 minutes.

“Curling is something a little unique and different, so we are excited to bring it down into the Mount over the school holiday break,” Mount Mainstreet Business Improvement Manager Harris Williams said.

“It’s a great group activity for friends and families so we hope to see people coming down and trying it out.”

So why not try something new this Easter break? Curling at the Mount might just slide into your list of favourite holiday activities.

Curling at the Mount will take place from 10am – 5pm, Wednesday April 23 and Thursday April 24 at Te Papa o Ngā Manu Porotakataka.