Kylie Gunn (left) Lisa Tovey and Dr. Michelle Harnett set up the Science in the city exhibition. Photo/Stephen Parker
Kylie Gunn (left) Lisa Tovey and Dr. Michelle Harnett set up the Science in the city exhibition. Photo/Stephen Parker
For budding scientists - and for parents trying to keep kids occupied during the school holidays - Scion's Science in the City exhibition could be the answer.
The free exhibition is part of Scion's 70th anniversary celebrations, and features displays of how Scion science helps to grow, protect and use trees, optimise land use and build value for Kiwis.
Christl McMillan, Scion's marketing and communications manager, said it was for all ages.
"It's designed to give a broad overview of what we do at Scion ... it's a mix between a museum exhibition and hands-on."
There will be an indoor forest complete with plywood trees prepared with 100 per cent plant-based glue.
Meanwhile, three new species of native reptiles have arrived at Rainbow Springs Nature Park.
The Moko skink, Falla's skink and Raukawa gecko will be on display from today.
A green tree gecko is one of the reptiles to see at Rainbow Springs. Photo/Supplied
To celebrate the lizards' arrival, Rainbow Springs is offering a free, one-hour junior keeper reptile experience for children.
The hour-long experience is offered when a Rainbow Springs day pass is bought, but those wanting to take it up must register via Eventfinda.
Wildlife programme manager Mark Paterson said the new species would join seven other species of reptiles in the park.
"Lizards, particularly native ones, are special and popular with our visitors, so we wanted to continue sharing our knowledge with the public.
"Reptile numbers are dwindling in the wild due to introduced pests and habitat reduction. Our geckos and skinks are some of the most beautiful and interesting species in the world."
Sophie Perry, activities and events co-ordinator at the Arts Village, said the village would run its usual arts and craft programmes for 5- to 7-year-olds (five days) and 8- to 12-year-olds (10 days).
"We have tutors come in to take classes and really great volunteers helping out ... if people are interested sign up online or if it's easier contact the Arts Village."
A good idea for rainy days is the Just Cook Challenge run by the New Zealand Nutrition Foundation.
Open to kids between the ages of 10 and 18, the competition is aimed at inspiring young people to learn to cook and develop the skills to eat healthily.
Kids can enter as many times as they like online and there are six categories with sponsored prizes.
At the Rotorua Aquatic Centre, due to the closure of the deep pool, spas are free - and an inflatable pirate ship will be in the learner pool daily from noon to 2pm.
A Rotorua Lakes Council spokeswoman said discounted intensive swimming lessons for school-age and preschool children were available throughout the holidays.
The Rotorua Library is hosting a "stars and planets" themed school activity programme.
Sandra Quinn, the library's marketing and communications co-ordinator, said while several activities were already booked up there were still places in the DIY Moon Rocks activity for ages 5 and up, the Constellation project and the Lego session to be held on Thursday, July 20.
One event not to miss is the Matariki Star Search 2017 Finale at the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre on Wednesday, July 19 between 6pm and 8.30pm. Entry is free but tickets must be collected from either the Rotorua Library or Nga Pumanawa e Waru.
Another community event taking place during the holidays is Colour The Night, on Friday, July 20.
For the third year running, the one-night event allows local arts, cultural groups and organisations to open their doors to the public.
Communications and events lead for Rotorua Museum, Jo Doherty, said for Colour The Night would be running craft activities from 5pm to 8pm at Te Runanga Tea House in Government Gardens.
Rotorua Museum would also have free drop-in craft activities with a hat theme during the school break.
