Western Bay Libraries are taking tamariki (children) around the world in 14 days these school holidays, with a range of fun crafts and activities inspired by different countries and cultures.

The Around the World school holiday programme for children and young teens will run from September 28 to October 10, at the Western Bay’s four libraries, at Waihī Beach, Katikati, Ōmokoroa and Te Puke.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s customer services manager Valeta Duncan said libraries were a great place to travel without needing a passport.

“Through crafts, music, games and challenges, tamariki can explore different places and cultures from their local library, without having to travel far from home,” she said.

“We hope our Around the World holiday programme will introduce tamariki to new countries, cultures and ideas, and encourage them to find out more about the world around them.”

From “worry dolls”, rainsticks and dreamcatchers to boomerangs and flower leis, participants can cross the globe one craft at a time, while activities will include World Music Workshops at Waihī Beach, Katikati and Ōmokoroa, and World Games sessions at all libraries, with games from Japan, Africa, Australia and more.

Parafed Bay of Plenty will host additional inclusive, barrier-free activities during the World Games sessions at Ōmokoroa and Te Puke libraries. There will also be Lego challenges and whānau movie time at Te Puke.

Scavenger Hunts will challenge tamariki to match famous landmarks with their countries, and a “travel trivia contest” for Years 7-13 will test teens’ global knowledge, with prizes up for grabs.

Duncan encouraged parents and caregivers to bring their young adventurers and explorers to the events and let their imaginations take them around the world.

“They can get creative, try something new and discover a little more about the world – all from their local library,” she said.

“Take and Make” kits and competitions will be available from all libraries from 3pm on September 25, including colouring contests. Competitions close midday on October 10.

Drop-in activities will run at Waihī Beach, Katikati and Ōmokoroa libraries from 10am-12pm.

Bookings are required for the Te Puke events via eventbrite.co.nz or phone 0800 926 732.

For more information, visit a library to pick up an activities calendar, or visit: libraries.westernbay.govt.nz.