Explore the Stars and Dive into Creativity These July School Holidays

Joining forces with the Makino Aquatic Centre on Monday 30 June, children are invited to enter the Dive into Creativity competition.  First crafting their own underwater diver character using a variety of fun and colourful materials at the Hub, which will then be displayed at the Makino. Prizes are up for grabs in three age categories: Preschool, 5–8 years, and 9+ years. Entries must be submitted to the Makino by Wednesday 2 July, with winners to be announced on Friday 11 July.

A key highlight of this holiday programme is the Star Dome experience, happening for one day only on Tuesday 1 July. Delivered in partnership with Spaceward Bound NZ, the Star Dome is an immersive, guided journey through the cosmos that blends science with storytelling. Children will step inside an inflatable planetarium to explore the celestial wonders of Matariki, the Māori New Year, in a magical setting. This one-day event is free to attend, with eight sessions available throughout the day and bookings are essential.

The wider school holiday programme offers an exciting mix of daily activities, including craft sessions, storytime mornings, movie Mondays, and hands-on digital learning through minecraft and coding workshops. Virtual Reality experiences will also run across several afternoons. Many of these sessions require bookings due to limited spaces.

“The Star Dome and Dive Competition are both about sparking creativity and exploration,” says, Marie Willis Community Hub Programmes Leader. “We’re creating spaces where kids can learn something new in a fun way.”

With an onsite café, welcoming spaces, and a strong focus on accessible, engaging programming, the Manawatū Community Hub Libraries continues to be a hub for learning and connection this winter.

For full programme details and to book tickets, visit: School Holiday Programmes | Manawatū Community Hub Libraries