School Holiday Program: Summer 2026

Kids! Looking for some nature-based fun during school holidays?The Hunter Wetlands Centre has loads of outdoor activities to keep little explorers busy.

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Who am I? 

Follow the trail, find the clues and see if you can solve the mystery! Don't forget to drop your completed answer into the bucket on the way out and for lucky draw and chance to WIN a PRIZE! Pick up the Who Am I Trail copy at our Reception. ‍

Everyday 5 Jan - 2 Feb | $FREE with Entry.

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Reptile Encounters! 

Get 'hands on' with nature at our popular Reptile Encounter show where our Animal Carers bring out our slithery and scaley residents to meet our visitors! You'll learn all about Australia's fascinating reptiles and even get a chance to pat them - if you dare.  ‍

Wednesdays & Weekends at 11am | $5pp Tickets at Reception!

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Family Canoe Adventure!

The sunny spring weather means its time for canoes! Join us for our fun Family Canoe Adventure as we explore the wetlands by water! On this guide-led tour with activities you'll learn all about how wetlands work and the wildlife that lives there. You'll also be learning how to paddle and practice your new paddle skills

17 January 9.30am $30/boat + Entry GET TICKETS

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Birdwatching for Beginners!

Ever wondered what kind of bird is that? Pick up a pair of our kids-size binoculars and join our guides on a birdwatching tour of the wetlands! You'll learn how to use binoculars to spot birds, easy ways to tell different types of birds apart and fun facts about bird behaviour. With so many birds in our wetlands ponds and trees over summer you'll be an expert birder in no time! (Suitable 4yo+) ‍

18 January 8.00am | HWCA Members $10/$5 Non Members $20/$10 Price Includes Entry | GET TICKETS

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Critters & Craft

‍These school holidays we're taking a close-up look at the wetlands tiniest creatures: invertebrates!  You'll get to use magnifying glasses and microscopes to find out more about all the fascinating insects, larvae and other critters that live in and around the ponds! There will also be fun craft sessions so you can busy painting, cutting and printing with nature!

‍These Guide-led Drop-in Sessions run 10am-Midday | $Free with Entry

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Sensory Trail

Immerse yourself in nature on our Sensory Trail. After a recent upgrade the trail now features interpretative signage, audioguide and discovery activities making this short, wheel accessible pathway perfect for young explorers and those with additional needs.

Everyday | $Free with Entry

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Canoe Hire

‍Can't make the tour? Our big red canoes and slow flowing creeks are perfect for families to paddle their own adventures!

Everyday (weather permitting). | $30 for 2 hrs (lifejackets included). Ask at Reception. (Minimum Age: 4yo+ )

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Stay and play all day! At the Hunter Wetlands Centre we have plenty of trails to explore on foot or by bike, animal house, playgrounds, picnic areas and cafe. Don't forget to join in on our daily Magpie Geese feeding at 10.30am and free guided walks on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 10.00am. 

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For more information about Entry Fees and where to find us here.

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