12 Places Kids Eat Free or Cheap in Auckland [2025]

When it comes to finding a family-friendly restaurant in Auckland, it can be tough to strike a balance between keeping both parents and kids happy.

Thankfully, there are plenty of great options that won’t break the bank.

From Mexican cuisine to Italian favourites, New Zealand classics, and Asian fusion, this guide has you covered.

12 Restaurants in Auckland that Kids Can Eat Free or Cheap

We’ve rounded up the 12 best restaurants in the city that offer free or affordable meals for kids in 2025.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best family-friendly restaurants in Auckland and satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

1. Mexico

Mexico is a vibrant and casual Mexican restaurant with four locations across Auckland: Britomart, Ellerslie, Silverdale, and Auckland Airport.

Known for its flavourful tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, Mexico offers a lively atmosphere perfect for families. Children under 10 can enjoy a free meal from the Kids Menu every Sunday when accompanied by a dining adult.

• Day of week: Sundays, excluding Easter Sunday, and on Public Holidays
• Times: 12pm to 10pm
• Requirements: For each $25 spent by the parent, 1 child can eat for free, includes one ‘Kids Eats’, one ‘Kids Treat’, and one ‘Kids Drink’ from the Kids Menu. Dine in only. Excludes Easter Sunday and Public Holidays.
• Eligible ages: Children under 10
• Contact details:
  • Website: mexico.nz
  • Phone number: Britomart (09 553 8666), Ellerslie (09 600 2216), Silverdale  (09 947 5324)

2. Little Creatures

 Little Creatures is a popular brewpub and restaurant offering a relaxed atmosphere with a wide selection of craft beers and fresh, locally-sourced food, located in Hobsonville Point.

On Sundays, children aged 12 and under can enjoy a free kids’ meal with the purchase of a large plate.

• Day of week: Sundays
• Times: 4-8 pm
• Requirements: Adults order a large plate  to receive a free kids’ main; dine-in only
• Eligible ages: 12 years old and under
• Contact details:
  • Website:  littlecreatures.co.nz
  • Phone number: 09 416 4416

3. Denny’s

Opened in 1988 in Manukau City, Denny’s is a classic American diner-style restaurant.

With six locations in Auckland: Manukau, New Lynn, Wairau Park, Hobson St,  and Highland Park, they offer a family-friendly environment and a diverse menu.

On Mondays and Tuesdays, children aged 10 and under can eat free from the Kids Menu when accompanied by an adult purchasing from the Value meal selection.

• Days of Week: Mondays and Tuesdays
  
• Times: All day
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per adult purchasing from the Value meal selection; excludes beverages, desserts, and non-value meals; dine-in only
  
• Eligible Ages: 10 years and under
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: denny’s.co.nz
  • Phone number: Manukau ( 09-263 6211), New Lynn (09-826 5010), Wairau Park (09-443 8359), Hobson St (09-309 9220),  Highland Park (09-537 0712)

4. New York Grill

Situated on the rooftop of Westfield Newmarket, New York Grill offers a premium dining experience with a focus on high-quality steaks and seafood.

Every Sunday, children under 12 can enjoy a free kids’ meal with the purchase of an adult main meal.

• Days of Week: Sundays  (Except Father’s Days & Mother’s Day)
  
• Times: All day
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per adult main meal purchased; Kids’ drinks and desserts not included. Dine-in only (excludes Express Lunch).
  
• Eligible Ages: Under 12 years
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: newyorkgrill.co.nz
  • Phone number: 09 872 7642

5. Mr Tanaka’s

Mr Tanaka’s Yakitori Hut in Ellerslie offers authentic Japanese cuisine in a cosy setting with a kiwi twist.

They provide a family-friendly atmosphere where children aged 12 and under can eat free on weekends and during school holidays when accompanied by a paying adult.

• Days of Week: Saturdays, Sundays, and throughout school holidays
  
• Times: 11:30 AM – Late
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per paying adult; dine-in only
  
• Eligible Ages: 12 years and under
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: mrtanakas.co.nz
  • Phone number: 09 216 8914

6. Morepork BBQ

Located in Kumeū, Morepork BBQ specialises in authentic American-style barbecue, from perfectly smoked pork ribs and brisket to pulled pork with southern sides

They offer a “Family Hour” promotion where children under 12 years old can enjoy a free meal from the kids’ menu with the purchase of a full adult meal.

• Days of Week: Thursdays and Fridays
  
• Times: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per full adult meal purchased; dine-in only
  
• Eligible Ages: Under 12 years
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: moreporkbbq.com
  • Phone number: 09 412 5993

7. The Grange Bar and Bistro

Situated in Takapuna’s Smales Farm, The Grange Bar and Bistro is a modern European bistro restaurant that offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine in a stylish setting.

From Monday to Thursday, children under 12 can enjoy a free meal with the purchase of an adult meal during the early evening hours.

• Days of Week: Monday to Thursday
  
• Times: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per adult meal purchased; dine-in only
  
• Eligible Ages: Under 12 years
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website:  thegrangetakapuna.co.nz
  • Phone number: 09 887 5295

8. Olea Cafe

Olea Cafe in East Tāmaki is a Mediterranean-inspired eatery known for its wholesome dishes using the finest seasonal produce and a family-friendly environment.

On weekends, children aged 12 and under can enjoy a free meal with the purchase of a full-paying adult meal.

• Days of Week: Saturdays and Sundays
  
• Times: All day
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per full-paying adult; dine-in only
  
• Eligible Ages: 12 years and under
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: oleacafe.co.nz
  • Phone number: 09 217 3927

9. Horse & Trap

Located in Mt Eden, Horse & Trap is a traditional pub offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers pub classics, some street food, and a dash of family-friendly options.

On Sundays, they provide a “Kids Eat Free” promotion, making it an ideal spot for a family roast.

• Days of Week: Sunday
  
• Times: All day
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per adult meal purchased; dine-in only
  
• Eligible Ages: 12 years and under
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: horseandtrap.co.nz
  • Phone number: (09) 630-3055

10. The Good Home Onehunga

The Good Home Onehunga is a welcoming, contemporary family-friendly gastropub right in the heart of the Onehunga community with a dedicated children’s play area located in the heart of Onehunga.

The menu offers a variety of comfort foods, including burgers, pizzas, and classic New Zealand dishes.

Every Sunday, they offer a “Kids Eat Free” promotion, allowing children to enjoy a meal at no cost when accompanied by a paying adult.

• Days of Week: Sunday
  
• Times: From 4:00 PM onwards
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per full-paying adult meal; dine-in only,.
  
• Eligible Ages: 12 years and under
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: ghonehunga.co.nz
  • Phone number: 09 887 9892

11. Bricklane Restaurant & Bar

Bricklane Restaurant & Bar is a contemporary New Zealand eatery located in New Lynn, West Auckland, known for its hearty portions and family-friendly atmosphere.

Every Sunday, Bricklane invites families to enjoy their “Kids Eat Free” promotion, allowing children to dine at no cost when accompanied by a paying adult.

• Days of Week: Sundays (excluding Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, public holidays, and functions or large groups over 20)
  
• Times: All day (11:00 AM – Late)
  
• Requirements: One free kids’ main meal per adult meal purchased; excludes drinks and desserts; dine-in only
  
• Eligible Ages: Not specified
  
• Contact Details:
  
  • Website: bricklane.co.nz
  • Phone number: 09 826 3654

12 Something & Social

Something & Social is a modern, all-day eatery and bar with two vibrant locations in Auckland: Broadway and Albany.

Known as an Italian restaurant with a Mediterranean influence featuring pizzas, pastas, and brunch favourites, it provides a stylish yet casual dining experience.

Every Sunday, children aged 12 and under can enjoy a free meal from the kids’ menu when accompanied by a paying adult.

• Day of Week: Sundays
• Times: All day
• Requirements: One free kids’ meal per adult meal purchased; dine-in only
• Eligible Ages: 12 years and under
• Contact Details:
  • Website: somethingandsocial.co.nz
  • Phone Numbers: Broadway (09 873 3822), Albany (09 886 4593)

Auckland’s array of “Kids Eat Free” promotions highlights the city’s dedication to family-friendly dining.

These offers not only provide financial benefits but also encourage families to explore diverse culinary experiences together.

From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there’s a variety of options that cater to both adult tastes and children’s preferences.

To make the most of these promotions, it’s essential to be aware of each restaurant’s specific terms, such as eligible days, age limits, and purchase requirements.

By planning ahead and understanding the details, families can enjoy memorable dining experiences that are both enjoyable and budget-friendly.

If we’ve missed somewhere, please let us know via our Contact page.