Kids
Summer reading programme: The great reading carnival!
It is well recognised that children's reading levels can slip over the summer break. To help combat this, our libraries in Taupō, Turangi and Mangakino offer fun reading programmes over the summer holidays with great reading incentives and a fantastic finale.
This free, incentives-based programme is suitable for children 5-11 years of age.
To find out more and apply to join the programme call in and see our team at Taupō Library (between 3.30pm and 5pm from December 2-6), Turangi Library or Mangakino Library (anytime during opening hours).
Numbers are limited, so don't miss out!
School holiday programme
During each school holiday break our libraries and museum have a whole heap of cool things for kids to do! Activities are typically run every day throughout the school holidays when the libraries are open. Look out for our holiday programmes with details on daily activities about one week prior to each term break.
Please note holiday programmes aren't run over the summer school holidays as the summer reading programme is offered (see above).
Toddler Time - Taupo Library
Stories, rhymes, crafts, songs and fun! Feel free to come along - share a story, get crafty and move those happy feet.
Where: Taupo Library
When: Every Wednesday at 10.30am (outside of school holidays only)
Cost: Free
Feel free to come along - share a story, get crafty and move those happy feet!
Tiny Toes - Turangi Library
Join us on Tuesday mornings at 11am for our toddler sessions, helping toddlers build literacy skills through song, stories, movement and games.
Where: Turangi Library
When: Every Tuesday at 11am (outside of school holidays only)
Cost: Free
No bookings required. A parent or caregiver must stay with each child throughout the session.
Dyslexia-friendly books
Taupo Library has a collection of dyslexia-friendly books!
For those who struggle with words, reading is not always fun, and it's easy to lose heart and stop trying. These books are designed to appeal to young people who have dyslexia or are reluctant to read and help them develop a love of reading.
We encourage all kids to explore the collection and suggest dyslexia-friendly books for us to buy!
To find out more about the books see this information booklet from publisher Barrington-Stoke.
Kids Crazy Good Reads
We have counted the votes of hundreds of local children and created a list of the most popular and loved books across our district.
Taupo District Libraries presents to you the Top 50 Kids' Crazy Good Reads!
Thanks to everyone who voted for their favourite books. From cheese loving mice to smart sheep to wimpy kids there is something for everyone.
Homework help
Homework help websites
Any Questions - Any Questions is a site where you can ask a librarian any questions using online chat.
Te Ara - Encyclopedia of New Zealand - A comprehensive look at New Zealand people, history, cultures and environment.
Fun and games
There are some great e-resources for kids online. Have a look at some of the favourites below.
Friv - Games, games, games! So many to choose from and they are all free.
Poptropica - Interactive learning games, online books and comics.
Busterville - Created by the New Zealand Police, Buster is a police dog in Busterville, a safe and fun environment for kids. In Busterville you can do puzzles, colour in and answer questions about when to call 111 all in a fun, encouraging and interactive environment.
Club Penguin - moderated creative safe environment for children and their families, onsite staff to monitor all activity. Children can practice reading, develop keyboard skills accumulate virtual coins to learn money management. New content is added every week.
Dr Seuss - Jam packed with books, videos, games and activities Dr Seuss online is a fantastic resource for parents and children alike. Re-read your favourite stories learn more about the author or create your own Who!
Sesame Street - Fantastic list of activities and fun for kids from literacy and reading to numbers, thinking skills and science. Learn while having fun with your favourite Sesame Street characters.
Lego online - Who didn't grow up with Lego? Now you can play online, build and share your creations with others online, learn and explore creations made by other people.
Geronimo Stilton World - Explore New Mouse City and take part in an adventure with Geronimo, Thea, Trap and Benjamin.
BBC for Children - Create, watch or play, lots to do on the BBC page with a changing and dynamic focus each week. Learn about different animals or share your favourites. BBC Children's pages offer lots to keep kids learning.
ABC Ya! - ABC Ya! is a site that mixes education fun and technology part of a new movement towards making learning fun. With all sorts of fun games from making your own word search to typing games and treasure hunts.
